Deadline Date: April 15, 2026
The FutureSkills apprenticeship scheme offers financial support to businesses committed to developing modern apprenticeships and fostering growth.
Focus areas include supporting small to medium SMEs, facilitating new business start-ups, aiding business development through training or growth plans, employing apprentices or graduates, and ensuring financial viability and owner investment, while excluding sectors such as alcohol, environmentally harmful activities, financial services, gambling, morally or ethically controversial activities, primary agriculture, property development, and weapons.
The scheme provides grants of up to £24,500 over three years, tailored to the needs of each business and the apprenticeship being undertaken. To qualify, applicants must be based in the Caithness and North Sutherland area, demonstrate financial stability, and show a strong commitment to hosting apprentices. Grants are not intended for very small lifestyle businesses or for retrospective funding, and capital equipment purchases must demonstrate clear growth or additionality.
Businesses receiving the grant are expected to supply progress reports as required and participate in publicity regarding their award. The funding aims to encourage scalable business initiatives that create employment opportunities while supporting skill development in the local workforce.
For more information, visit CBF.
