Barclays has launched the Eagle Labs Academy, a free online digital skills platform designed to upskill and inspire the next generation of UK tech entrepreneurs. Bankrolled by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s Digital Growth Grant, the Academy offers interactive modules aimed at building the skills requisite for starting a digital business.
The launch on 16 January 2024 sees the Academy offering young entrepreneurs a range of curated learning experiences. Users can access self-paced, interactive, and on-demand content covering the key challenges encountered when commencing and expanding a technology-centric business. Moreover, the platform would guide the next wave of tech entrepreneurs on topics including raising finance and crafting their first business plan.
Amanda Allan, Director of Barclays Eagle Labs, voiced her optimism about the Academy’s role in the tech sector, "This is another fantastic addition to the range of programmes and support that Barclays Eagle Labs offer tech startups and their founders. The Eagle Labs Academy is an exciting platform which we hope will encourage the next wave of tech entrepreneurs to start and grow their ideas into a lucrative business.” Amanda views the platform as, “a great starting point for anyone who is thinking of entering this space and becoming a tech entrepreneur,” particularly considering the significant growth the digital economy continues to experience.
Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy, Saqib Bhatti MP, spoke of the UK’s standing in the global startup ecosystem and the role the Eagle Labs Academy is expected to play in it, stating, "The UK's startup ecosystem stands unrivalled, home to more tech unicorns than France and Germany combined. That achievement is no coincidence; it's a result of our ongoing commitment to support and grow our tech sector.” He further added, “The Eagle Labs Academy, supported by our 12 million Digital Growth Grant, will help to nurture and develop the skills of the next wave of tech entrepreneurs which will, in turn, drive economic growth and help to create new jobs."
The Academy stands to benefit from 14 modules underpinned by 60 individual lessons, featuring founder videos, insights, and downloadable templates. The easily navigable site includes a unique dashboard allowing users to keep track of module progress. The mobile-friendly platform offers convenient on-the-go access.
The UK tech sector, which contributes £150 billion to the country's economy and supports over 3 million jobs, is expected to harness future tech entrepreneurs through the Eagle Labs Academy. The Academy will equip these entrepreneurs to participate effectively in this rapidly expanding sector.