Powering progress: How the nBS Foundation is helping communities build a brighter future

Two years on from the launch of the npower Business Solutions (nBS) Foundation, its impact is already being felt across the communities it was created to support.

In that time, we’ve invested nearly £4.5 million into projects across the Midlands and Yorkshire - supporting initiatives that are helping to transform lives and strengthen local communities.

From installing on-site renewable energy solutions, to funding vital equipment and key roles, and creating sustainable community spaces, the nBS Foundation is helping to build a brighter, more resilient future in the regions we serve. Read more about some of the recent projects we’ve supported.

Powering support around the clock at Samaritans of Solihull

Samaritans of Solihull received £12,250 to install a solar and battery storage system, giving the self-funded charity a long-term renewable energy source that will help reduce electricity costs, lower its carbon footprint and keep its 24/7 service running more sustainably.

The new system able to generate an estimated 4,190 kWh of clean energy each year will help the branch reduce its energy costs and reliance on the grid. Allowing them to reinvest savings into frontline services, from volunteer training to outreach programmes, such as suicide prevention at rail stations and mental health education in schools.

“The ability to fund early intervention initiatives is so important. Year after year, these ongoing savings mean the money can be used elsewhere in the budget, which makes such a big difference.”  Georgina, Support Volunteer at Samaritans of Solihull

Opening doors to long-term employment at Big Issue Recruit

Big Issue Recruit which acts as specialist recruitment service for people facing barriers to employment, received £84,400 to fund two dedicated job coaches in Birmingham and the West Midlands. The service helps candidates build confidence, apply for roles and settle into employment, while also supporting employers to make recruitment more accessible.

This investment not only improves Big Issue Recruit’s local presence, but strengthens links with employers, creating a foundation for sustainable, employer-funded support. This funding covers around 80% of salaries, alongside essential costs such as travel and outreach materials.

“This funding is essential to allow the organisation to engage with and support local people in finding long-term work. By offering comprehensive, people-focused support delivered by specialist job coaches, we give candidates the practical tools and confidence they need to take their next step into the workplace.” Stuart Greenway, Managing Director of Big Issue Recruit

Creating a sustainable space for Pitch2Progress

Pitch2Progress, which supports young people through sports and mentoring in inner-city Birmingham, received £32,295 to install solar panels and battery storage at its Green Lane Playing Fields site.

With no direct connection to the national energy grid, the funding has enabled Pitch2Progress to replace noisy generators with a more reliable, sustainable power source, moving the facility closer to energy independence. With lower energy costs and dependable power, it can continue expanding its sport, mentoring and skills programmes for more than 2,000 young people.

“The solar panels represent a life-changing development for the organisation. They allow Pitch2Progress to expand its reach and impact, without having to worry about rising energy costs.” Syed Ali, Director and Operations Manager at Pitch2Progress

Growing skills and greener communities for City of Trees

City of Trees, is a Greater Manchester based environmental charity focused on restoring the region’s urban forest. It received nearly £97,000 to help transform a former horticultural centre in Barnfield, into a dedicated hub for green skills. The funding has supported the sites infrastructure, tools and volunteer facilities, as well as two full-time roles. It is helping the project become a working nursery with the capacity to produce up to 20,000 trees a year while strengthening community connections and creating routes into environmental careers.

“It’s rare to find a fund that mixes capital and revenue funding in this way. If we had only built the infrastructure, we would be left with a great site but no one to run it. Instead, we have been able to both transform Barnfield Nursery and employ specialists that can lead the community engagement which is at the very heart of this project.

“The Barnfield project lets us look far beyond just putting trees in the ground; it’s about the science of resilience. By collecting and growing local seeds, we’re ensuring the woodlands we plant today are genetically adapted to thrive in our changing climate.” Alex Bedford, Head of Partnerships at City of Trees.