Case Studies
From starting out to expanding operations, a number of businesses have seen the benefits of our grants and loans. Read more below about some of the local businesses we have helped and how...
MG Skip Hire
Stanley
Matthew Goodwin first approached FIDC in March 2023, seeking advice and guidance on the possibility of acquiring an established and well-known local business. He was exploring various funding options to support this potential purchase. After months of careful consideration and negotiation, in January 2024, Matthew Goodwin successfully agreed on a sale price for the business, formerly known as Poole’s Skip Hire.
Matthew is no stranger to the skip hire industry, having worked closely with the previous owner for many years. His extensive experience in the field not only made him a natural successor but also provided reassurance that the business would continue to thrive under his leadership. His knowledge and familiarity with the operations ensured a smooth transition and helped maintain the established reputation of the company.
With the guidance and support of the FIDC’s Business Development Team, Matthew was able to secure both loan and grant funding, enabling him to move forward with the acquisition. The team extends their best wishes to Matthew as he embarks on this new chapter in his career, confident that his dedication and expertise will lead to the continued success and growth of the business.
If you would like to arrange a free business advice meeting to discuss the needs of your business, new or established, please e-mail reception@fidc.co.fk or call 27211
Wookey Cabin
Stoney Ridge, West Falklands
With 30 years of experience in both farming and hospitality, Jennifer finally saw her long-held dream come to fruition in 2023 when she established her own self-catering accommodation, Wookey Cabin. This milestone was made possible with financial assistance and continued support from FIDC, helping Jennifer bring her vision to life.
Just a few months after welcoming her first guests, Jennifer was already thinking ahead to improve the guest experience and enhance the eco-friendly ambiance of Wookey Cabin. She decided to move forward with her next project: replacing the existing diesel generator with a modern, 24-hour power system that would operate seamlessly without any guest intervention, contributing to the serene and tranquil environment she was striving to create.
To achieve this, a renewable energy solution was recommended by eLink in the form of a ground-mounted solar array. This system would not only provide a more sustainable energy source but also align with Jennifer’s vision of a peaceful, environmentally conscious retreat. FIDC, recognising the importance of supporting green initiatives, was eager to assist.
Through FIDC’s Green Business Programme, Jennifer was able to secure the funding necessary to facilitate the purchase and installation of the solar energy system. The new setup not only improved the operational efficiency of Wookey Cabin but also underscored Jennifer’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring her guests could enjoy a quiet, worry-free stay in harmony with nature.
Jennifer’s journey is a testament to her forward-thinking approach, and FIDC is proud to have supported her in both realising her dream and contributing to a greener future.
Silverstream Maritime Ltd
Stanley
With 2023/2024 placing a strong emphasis on green initiatives, FIDC was thrilled to lend its support to Silverstream Maritime Ltd for their latest environmentally conscious project.
Silverstream Maritime Ltd, had been carefully evaluating the possibility of integrating renewable energy solutions into their new cold storage facility. Recognising the importance of sustainability in their operations, they approached FIDC to explore potential grant support that could assist them during their research and planning phase.
Silverstream’s commitment to embracing renewable energy solutions aligns perfectly with FIDC’s mission to promote sustainable business practices. After thorough discussions and assessments, FIDC was able to offer financial assistance through its Green Business Programme. This programme, designed to encourage environmentally friendly projects, provided the necessary support to help Silverstream Maritime Ltd as they researched and explored various renewable energy options for their facility.
The project marks a significant step forward for both the company and the industry as it works to reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining the efficiency and reliability of its operations. The integration of renewable energy in the cold storage facility has the potential to set a new standard for environmentally sustainable practices within the sector.
FIDC is proud to support this initiative and looks forward to seeing the project progress as Silverstream Maritime Ltd continues to innovate and pave the way for greener solutions in the fishing industry. The Corporation eagerly anticipates the long-term impact this project will have, not only in terms of energy efficiency but also in promoting a more sustainable future for the region.
Philomel Farm
West Falkland
Scott and Rachel Short have been operating Philomel Farm since 2020, steadily working to build a thriving business in the Falklands’ farming sector.
In early 2023, they generously hosted FIDC’s Business Development Team during one of their scheduled visits to West Falkland. During this visit, FIDC was impressed by the couple’s clear ambition, dedication, and the remarkable progress they had already achieved in such a short time.
Since taking over the management of Philomel Farm, Scott and Rachel have made significant improvements. They oversaw the development of a road, a crucial infrastructure project that has greatly improved the farm’s logistics. This road has allowed livestock and wool to be transported to market more efficiently, reducing transportation challenges and helping to streamline the farm’s overall productivity. Alongside this, they have introduced data collection and the electronic identification, as a step towards improving the quality of their livestock so that they are able to decrease the quantity.
The Shorts’ vision for the future of Philomel Farm was clear from the start, and with financial support and guidance from FIDC, they were able to take the next big step: purchasing the business outright.
This acquisition marked a pivotal moment in their journey, solidifying their commitment to the farm and their long-term goals. Their focus now is on continuing to make improvements, particularly in the quality of their wool production, a key element of the farm’s operations and future growth.
Scott and Rachel’s hard work and intuitive approach have already positioned them as rising stars in the agricultural community. FIDC is proud to have played a role in supporting their endeavours and looks forward to seeing how they will continue to evolve Philomel Farm.
Tex Alazia
West Falkland
Tex Alazia, the long-time owner of Port Edgar Farm since 1988, passed the responsibility of managing the farm to his daughters a few years ago, transitioning himself into a semi-retired role.
Now working as a “roustabout” on the family farm, Tex envisioned creating a personal retreat that would align with his passion for sustainability and environmental responsibility. His dream was to build a fully eco-friendly property on the farmland, demonstrating that rural living could be both comfortable and energy efficient without relying on fossil fuels.
In 2021, Tex began constructing his vision—a cabin designed to be 100% eco-friendly. After several years of careful planning and building, the main construction was completed in March 2024. The cabin features a complete retrofit of the rural property, ensuring that it is powered entirely by renewable energy sources.
Solar power is the driving force behind the home, providing both heating and hot water. The energy-efficient setup includes a solar array connected directly to the hot water cylinder, while internal infrared heating panels ensure the cabin remains warm throughout the year without any reliance on traditional energy sources.
Tex’s project was made possible with the help of financial support from FIDC through the Rural Energy Grant and the Domestic Thermal Grant (Energy). This support enabled Tex to create a zero-fossil-fuel property that serves as a model for sustainable living in the region. The FIDC proudly backed the project as part of their Green Business Programme, which promotes environmental sustainability and renewable energy initiatives within the community.
Tex’s new home not only reflects his commitment to eco-friendly practices but also stands as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable rural development, paving the way for similar projects in the future.
Little Harbour Gift Shop
Stanley
Debbie and Lee Ferriby, owners of DF Clothing, a well-established retail business on John Street in Stanley since 2016, secured the premises formerly occupied by Harbour View Gift Shop on Ross Road, a prime location in the area. With their extensive experience in retail, the Ferriby’s are embarking on a new venture, rebranding the space as “Little Harbour Gift Shop.”
Their vision for the new shop was to create a unique and inviting retail experience that will cater to both the local community and visiting tourists. Little Harbour Gift Shop will offer a diverse selection of traditional, handmade, and artisan gifts, showcasing local craftsmanship and providing products with a distinct, authentic appeal.
With financial assistance from FIDC, the rebranded store opened in September 2024, adding a fresh shopping destination to Stanley and further enriching the local retail landscape.
Falkland Landholdings
East Falkland
In 2023, Falkland Landholdings (FLH) embarked on an ambitious project aimed at upgrading the energy systems in several key settlements across East Falkland Islands, including Fitzroy, Goose Green, Walker Creek, and North Arm. The project was part of FLH’s ongoing commitment to improving sustainability and energy efficiency within its operations, as well as addressing the increasing demand for electrical capacity in these rural communities.
Recognising the need for more reliable and environmentally friendly energy sources, the FLH Board had previously approved a substantial expenditure to purchase and install solar power systems. These solar arrays were designed to complement the existing wind turbines already in use at the settlements, providing a more robust, hybrid renewable energy solution.
The integration of solar power would not only help reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels but also ensure that the settlements had access to a stable and increased electrical supply, especially during periods of high demand or when wind energy alone was insufficient.
FIDC was delighted to support this initiative through its Green Business Programme, which is designed to promote sustainable projects and encourage the adoption of renewable energy across the Falkland Islands. The financial assistance provided through the programme helped facilitate the purchase and installation of the solar power systems, making the vision of enhanced renewable energy capacity a reality for FLH and the settlements it serves.
This project represents a significant step forward in the Falkland Islands’ efforts to embrace greener energy solutions. By integrating solar power with existing wind turbines, FLH is not only improving the resilience and capacity of the settlements’ energy supply but also setting a positive example for other businesses and communities in the region.
FIDC looks forward to seeing the new solar arrays in action and witnessing the benefits they will bring to these rural settlements, both in terms of environmental sustainability and the long-term efficiency of their energy systems. The Corporation is proud to have been part of such a progressive project and anticipates a successful future for FLH’s renewable energy initiatives.
eLink
Stanley
e-Link a renewable focussed branch of AtLink Ltd, was established in 2021, currently concentrating on providing electric transport and renewable power solutions in the islands. As a provider of electrical vehicles (EVs) in the islands, eLink were in a fortunate position to be able to trial several EVs over the last few years.
They applied to FIDC for funding toward purchasing another EV for their own business use that would reduce reliance on fossil fuels and running costs, and also serve as a test drive vehicle to potential customers and businesses alike.
This has been very successful, with interest in EV growing over the last several months, and this proof of concept also bolstered FIDC in demonstrating the simplicity of the application process for financial support and enabled e-Link to, having experienced the process, advise potential customers about the support on offer through FIDC.
Video created by the Falkland Islands Film Company
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