Sponge named International Trade Business of the Year

A Plymouth company, which creates elearning for famous global clients across more than 100 countries, has been named International Trade Business of the Year at the Herald Business Awards.

Sponge, based at Plymouth Science Park, is one of the UK’s top elearning companies, making bespoke elearning solutions for international organisations including Toyota, GKN Aerospace, Tesco, GlaxoSmithKline and the United Nations.

Workers in 124 different countries access elearning through Sponge’s internet-based Learning Management System (LMS) called Launch & Learn.

Managing Director and founder of Sponge, Louise Pasterfield, said:

“By its very nature, elearning crosses international boundaries so we’ve been able to grow a truly global business from our Plymouth headquarters. Our international work is expanding all the time and we’re putting Plymouth on the world map when it comes to corporate elearning. We’re really pleased to be recognised with this award and delighted to be part of celebrating Plymouth’s vibrant business community.”

The company has more than 50 staff and plans to double that to 100 by the end of the year as it expands even further.

Around 40% of the employees at Sponge are Plymouth University graduates and the business continues to nurture strong ties with the university to develop the next generation of talent. 

Sponge is the fastest growing company at Plymouth Science Park and last year moved into a new 6,500 square foot building on the site after outgrowing two other offices.

The Herald Business Awards were announced on Thursday, April 23 at a gala ceremony at Plymouth Pavilions, hosted by former England player, Phil Vickery.

The judges said they were ‘astounded’ by the quality and diversity of the businesses shortlisted this year and said process had ‘opened their eyes’ to the economic growth happening in Plymouth.