news

Training grants extended to bigger businesses

26 Nov 2010

More tourism and hospitality businesses are now eligible for thousands of pounds of invaluable training funding support.

Thanks to an extension of the Flexible Training Opportunities (FTO) Fund, which was launched by Skills Development Scotland (SDS), businesses with up to 75 staff can also apply for the funding windfall.

Until recently the FTO Fund, which offers generous training grants, was only available to small businesses with up to 50 staff.

Training support is paid out for up to 10 employees per business. A maximum of 50% of staff training costs will be paid for with an overall funding limit of £500 per employee. 

The money is not a loan so there is no need to pay it back. For example, if training costs £1200, SDS will refund £500. If it costs £300, SDS will refund £150.

The aim is to encourage more companies to train their staff and the scheme offers to make this training more affordable by meeting businesses halfway with costs.

Eligible training opportunities include learning based on national occupational standards, industry-recognised qualifications, first-line supervisory management, masterclasses and workshops. 

Stella Callaghan, Project Manager for Glasgow Service with Style, said: “The Flexible Training Opportunities scheme is a great opportunity for Scottish tourism and hospitality businesses.

“Now that is has been extended to include businesses with up to 75  staff it means that even more employees could benefit.”

To apply for up to £5,000 worth of funding for your company, call the helpline free on 0800 783 6000, or to find out more details see the Skills Development Scotland website