The Herefordshire Future Skills Grant has been launched by Herefordshire Council using funding generated through Hereford Enterprise Zone (HEZ) retained business rates, helping local businesses invest in training, improve skills, provide opportunities for career progression and create more better paid jobs.

Grants of up to £10,000 are available to support professional development and industry-specific training, with funding covering up to 50 per cent of eligible training costs. Businesses can apply for up to £2,500 per employee.

The scheme aims to help create more and better-paid jobs by supporting employees to develop new skills, gain recognised qualifications and progress into higher-skilled roles.

 

Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, Councillor Graham Biggs, said:

“Skills are at the heart of a successful economy. Through funding from the Hereford Enterprise Zone, we are helping local businesses invest in their people, improve productivity and create opportunities for residents to build rewarding careers here in Herefordshire.

“This grant is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to access support for training that will strengthen their workforce and help them prepare for the future.”

Funding is available for a wide range of training, including:

•   Leadership and management development

•   Project management

•   Professional qualifications and accreditations

•   Industry-specific skills training

•   International business, financial and legal training

The grant is particularly aimed at businesses operating in Herefordshire’s key growth sectors, including:

•   Defence and security

•   Advanced manufacturing and engineering

•   Food and drink manufacturing and processing

•   Agri-technology

•   Construction

•   Sustainable technologies

Applications are open now and will be assessed on a first come, first served basis until funding is allocated. Businesses are encouraged to apply early as the scheme may close once the available budget has been committed.

To apply, businesses must be based in and trading in Herefordshire. The grant can support training and development, but cannot be used for mandatory training, equipment, staff time, travel costs or training that is already funded elsewhere.

Businesses interested in applying can find full guidance, eligibility criteria and application forms on Herefordshire Council's website. 

Support is also available from the Herefordshire Growth Hub, which offers free advice to help businesses develop their proposals and identify their training needs. To arrange support, email business@herefordshire.gov.uk

For queries about the grant, contact the Grant Team at delegatedgrants@herefordshire.gov.uk