Courses
Green Accelerator Skills Programme (GRASP)
Empowering a Greener Future through Skills and Innovation
The Green Accelerator Skills Programme (GRASP) is a transformative cross-border education and training initiative designed to equip the construction sector with the green skills needed to meet net zero targets. Funded through the EU PEACEPLUS Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), GRASP brings together a powerful network of education providers across Ireland and Northern Ireland, including Atlantic Technological University (ATU).
Why GRASP Matters
As climate targets tighten and regulatory demands rise, the construction industry is under growing pressure to adopt sustainable technologies and low-carbon methods. Yet, there is a widening gap between these demands and the availability of trained professionals to meet them.
GRASP is designed to bridge this gap.
With €9.8 million in funding, the programme is targeting the upskilling of 2,000 individuals over four years, through free, industry-relevant training that’s accessible, accredited, and aligned with real labour market needs.
GRASP Training Areas Across Educational Providers
Courses are developed in collaboration with employers, policy experts and education leaders. Participants can choose from a growing range of programmes, including:
- Domestic Retrofit & Passive House Design
- Air Source Heat Pump Installation & Maintenance
- PV Systems Installation & Management
- Digital Construction Tools e.g. BIM
- Carbon Literacy and Climate Action in Construction
- Green Skills for Secondary School Outreach (educator-focused)
All training is offered at no cost to participants, subject to eligibility.
Recognised Qualifications
All courses lead to accredited certification, meeting current and emerging professional standards across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
ATU’s Role in GRASP
Atlantic Technological University is a core delivery partner in the GRASP consortium. Our team will be actively involved in:
- Designing and delivering certified programmes
- Hosting regional workshops and practical sessions
- Engaging with employers to ensure content relevance and industry alignment
- Promoting green career pathways for underrepresented groups in the West and Northwest
Current ATU GRASP Funded Programmes
Who Can Participate?
GRASP is open to a wide range of learners, including:
- Construction workers and tradespeople seeking green upskilling
- Unemployed or underemployed individuals looking to enter the green economy
- Women and minority groups exploring new career pathways
- Employers looking to train staff for energy-efficient practices
- Educators seeking to embed green thinking in schools
- To apply, learners must be living in Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down, Tyrone, Fermanagh, Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Cavan, Monaghan or Louth.
Contact Us
Email: patrick.sweeney@atu.ie
Phone: 071 93 05649