Thousands of businesses can now apply for grants of up to £15,000 to help retrain and boost the skills of their workers.

The Scottish Government’s Flexible Workforce Development Fund (FWDF) provides workers in organisations of all sizes with access to training courses through local colleges, the Open University in Scotland, and Skills Development Scotland.

Now entering its sixth year, the skills grants are open to organisations who pay the UK Apprenticeship Levy and small-to-medium size business (SMEs).

The initiative plays a crucial role in Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation, which outlines how the Scottish Government will work to develop the best economic performance possible over the decade ahead.

The aim of the fund is to support the Scottish Funding Council’s (SFC) strategic outcome of greater innovation in the economy, as well as the Scottish Government’s strategic priority of high-quality learning in a seamlessly connected system.

Included in this is learning which prepares people well for the world of work and successful long-term careers, prioritising provision that meets known skills gaps in the economy.

Youth Employment and Training Minister Jamie Hepburn said: “We know times are tough for many businesses, so this funding will help them to continue investing in their workforce – addressing skills gaps and improving productivity. A skilled workforce is vital to our economy, and we want as many businesses as possible to benefit from this scheme.

“For the first time, all eligible employers can access training available via local colleges, Skills Development Scotland, and the Open University, tailored to their needs. This provides an incredible opportunity for workers to upskill at a time when many businesses are opting for new ways of working.

“I would encourage all employers to find out more about the opportunities available to them.”

Recommended

• Comment | It’s time for IT to increase the scope carbon reporting
• Google Gmail hack putting accounts at risk
• Business Gateway helps Scottish marketing firm reach net zero

The FWDF was introduced back in 2017-18 and aims to provide employers with flexible workforce development training opportunities tailored to their needs to support inclusive economic growth through upskilling and reskilling of employees.

Apprenticeship Levy-paying organisations will be able to access upskilling support to the value of £15,000, and non-levy paying SMEs up to £5,000.

An independent evaluation of the fund was carried out in academic year 2021-22. The results will be published this autumn.

Get the latest news from DIGIT direct to your inbox

Our newsletter covers the latest technology and IT news from Scotland and beyond, as well as in-depth features and exclusive interviews with leading figures and rising stars.

To subscribe, click here.