Funding for Skills Training Skills Boost Grant

The Skills Boost Grant Returns: A Strategic Opportunity for Workforce Investment

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training (HWGTA) is dedicated to fostering business growth through targeted skills development. We are pleased to announce the return of the Skills Boost Grant for 2025, representing a significant opportunity for employers to strategically invest in their teams with financial support that enhances access to high-quality training.

As an approved provider under this scheme, HWGTA enables local employers to benefit from up to 50% funding towards a diverse range of training programmes we deliver.

Understanding Skills Boost

Skills Boost is a key funding initiative facilitated by the Worcestershire Growth Hub, designed to bolster productivity, enhance staff retention, and build resilience through focused workforce development. The reintroduction of this scheme allows eligible businesses to apply for matched funding to address critical training needs—a particularly vital resource amidst current skills shortages, the prevalence of hybrid work models, and evolving compliance demands.

Skills Boost funding is presently available and will continue until March 31, 2026. Please be aware that the funding is limited and allocations will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility requirements for the Skills Boost Grant are clearly defined:

• Employee Residency: Your business must employ staff residing in Herefordshire or Worcestershire (determined by their residential postcode, not the business address).
• Business Size: The programme is open to businesses of all sizes.
• Funding Cap Per Individual: A maximum of £1,500 in funding is available per individual.
• Maximum Business Grant: A single business can receive up to £6,000 in grant funding.
• Cost Coverage: The grant covers 50% of eligible training costs, with the remaining half funded by your business.
• Sector Inclusivity: The programme is open to all business sectors.

How HWGTA Can Support Your Business

As an approved Skills Boost provider, HWGTA offers a comprehensive portfolio of programmes precisely tailored to address contemporary workplace challenges. Our areas of specialisation include:

• ILM Accredited Management and Leadership Development (Levels 3 & 5)
• ILM Accredited Workplace Coaching (Level 3)
• Preparing to Lead
• Thomas International Psychological Profiling Assessments
• Train the Trainer
• Microsoft Excel (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced)
• Generative Artificial Intelligence for Business
• CPR and Defibrillator Awareness

All training is delivered by experienced practitioners and can be customised to your specific business requirements, available at both our facilities in Hereford and Worcester or at your own premises.

Please refer to our full training catalogue via the provided link or QR code to identify the most suitable programmes for your team. Link to our website

The Strategic Imperative

While many businesses recognise the inherent value of workforce training, cost can often present a significant barrier. The Skills Boost Grant effectively mitigates this financial pressure, empowering you to make essential investments in your human capital without overextending your budget.

Initiating the Process

To gain further insight into the Skills Boost Grant’s application process and to ascertain your business’s eligibility, please visit the official programme page: worcestershiregrowthhub.co.uk/skillsboost

Should you require assistance in navigating the application process, identifying optimal training solutions, or ensuring compliance with grant criteria, HWGTA is available and ready to provide expert guidance.

About Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training

HWGTA is a dedicated not for profit organisation supporting businesses through professional training, leadership development, and a comprehensive suite of related services. We are proud to continue our role as an approved Skills Boost provider, committed to helping businesses cultivate confident, capable, and future-ready teams.

We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can support your organisation’s next strategic step.