De Montfort University
Finance Skills in Practice – making ESG count
Finalist, Next Generation Learning and Skills
About
The Trading Floor at De Montfort University (DMU) is an innovative, industry-grade learning environment that provides our students with an authentic simulation of financial trading and investing, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the world of work.
Through the use of various ESG challenges to students, which utilising the Trading Floor, students can assess ESG datasets, sustainable finance frameworks, and scenario modelling aligned with global sustainability goals, equipping graduates with practical competencies demanded by employers. Through live market simulations, real-time data, and experiential learning, students develop critical skills in responsible investment, climate risk analysis, and ethical decision-making.
For example, by bridging theory and practice, the investment challenges, enable learners to analyse environmental and social impacts alongside financial performance, preparing them to drive the transition to a low-carbon and socially responsible economy. Students develop critical skills in a growing number of ESG areas, including responsible investment, risk analysis, and ethical decision-making. The project represents a step-change in how higher education delivers sustainability-focused skills, with strong engagement from students, academics and industry partners.
Top 3 learnings
1. Experiential ESG learning increases engagement and understanding.
2. Industry collaboration is key for sustainability skills.
3. Cross-discipline embedding expands institutional impact.
SDGs
8. Decent work and economic growth
| 2026 | |
| Next Generation Learning and Skills | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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