‘The support from West Yorkshire Business Boost helped us accelerate plans that were already in motion’
Yorkshire education tech business FE Tech is ramping up global expansion plans after receiving support from West Yorkshire Business Boost’s (WYBB) Export Programme. Founded in January 2022 by software and marketing specialist James Earl, FE Tech helps further education providers to procure innovative and effective learning technology solutions that meet their needs,
The business was launched during the pandemic, when learning rapidly moved online. Mr Earl identified widespread reliance on outdated technology, and created the company to offer tech which can enhance digital learning experiences.
FE Tech currently works with almost every further education college in the UK as well as 500 independent training and education providers and employs 23 members of staff. Over the last 12-months, the business has expanded into the corporate sector in the UK, securing contracts with organisations including Tesco and the Home Office.
Now the Leeds-based learning technology marketplace and digital transformation consultancy has plans to strengthen its presence in overseas markets and build strategic partnerships in Asia. At the end of last year the business attended EDUtech in Singapore, an international education technology conference and exhibition for educators, policymakers, and ed-tech providers, after sealing grant funding from West Yorkshire Business Boost.
And over the course of the two-day event, which brought together over 400 speakers and 250-plus exhibitors, FE Tech was introduced to partners and customers, forging commercial allegiances and opportunities which are already delivering strong outcomes.
Over the coming three to six months, FE Tech will work to convert leads generated with around 30 potential new clients, which is expected to drive substantial growth and secure £400,000 in revenue.
Attending the event triggered the formation of a partnership with a leading EdTech provider that will support FE Tech’s expansion across the Singapore region, marking a major milestone in entering a strategically significant market. The move has already generated approximately £50,000 in sales.
The expansion has also led to the creation of one new role, with two existing jobs safeguarded.
James Earl, FE Tech’s chief executive said: “The support from West Yorkshire Business Boost helped us accelerate plans that were already in motion. Attending EDUtech Asia gave us direct access to the right partners and customers, and the commercial outcomes have already been significant, establishing a solid foundation for future international growth.”
James Was, export manager and growth specialist, at West Yorkshire Business Boost said: “FE Tech is a strong example of a high-growth tech business using targeted support to access international markets and accelerate its global expansion plans. The results demonstrate how investment in ambitious SMEs can secure new commercial partnerships which translate quickly into revenue growth, job creation and longer-term economic impact for West Yorkshire.”
Like this story? For more news from the tech sector, visit our dedicated page for the latest news and analysis here.




