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Navigating CITB Funding: A Guide to Accessing Training Grants for SMEs

Posted on Wednesday, 18th December 2024

Navigating CITB Funding: A Guide to Accessing Training Grants for SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the construction industry often face challenges when it comes to funding employee training. The CITB Employer Network offers an incredible opportunity to access industry-backed funded courses, with CITB providing up to 70% funding for eligible training. This funding can significantly reduce costs, making essential funded courses more accessible and enabling businesses to upskill their workforce efficiently. 

In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to navigate CITB funding and unlock the construction training fund to meet your team’s needs.


What is CITB Funding?

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is committed to improving the skills and productivity of the UK construction sector. Through the CITB Employer Network, businesses can access CITB funded training and receive financial support for vital building and construction training fund courses. CITB funding allows eligible SMEs to claim up to 70% of the course costs, providing a substantial saving on adult training funding opportunities.


Why Choose CITB Employer Network Funding?

The CITB Employer Network is designed to support SMEs by making training accessible and affordable. If you’ve ever wondered:

  • “Can I get funding for training courses?”
  • “How to get funding for training?”
  • “Can I get funding for a training course?”

…the answer is YES! With funding covering up to 70% of course fees, this initiative removes barriers to upskilling employees and improving business operations.


Step-by-Step Guide: How to Access CITB Funding

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
To access CITB funding, your business must:

  • Be registered with CITB: Registration ensures you are part of the Construction Industry Training Board scheme.
  • Meet the CITB funding eligibility requirements: Your business must operate within the construction sector and engage in relevant activities that align with CITB’s scope.
  • Pay into the CITB Levy (where applicable): The CITB Levy is a mandatory contribution for most construction businesses. However, smaller businesses may qualify for exemption or reduced rates.

Step 2: Identify Your Training Needs
Review your workforce’s skills gaps and choose relevant funded courses. Whether it’s safety training, technical skills, or leadership development, CITB supports a variety of industry-funded courses.

Step 3: Get Help Navigating the CITB Employer Network

If you’re unsure where to start, we can help. Our team has extensive experience with CITB funding and can assist you in connecting with the right CITB representative within the Employer Network. This ensures you get expert guidance on funding options and how to access the construction training fund for your chosen courses.

Step 4: Choose an Approved Training Provider
Select an accredited training provider that offers CITB funded training. At Essential Site Skills, we provide a wide range of approved courses that qualify for CITB funding, ensuring you get maximum value for your investment.

Step 5: Apply for Up to 70% Funding

With the support of your CITB representative, complete the application process for funding. Eligible businesses can receive up to 70% funding for course costs, significantly reducing training expenses.

Step 6: Complete Training and Claim Funding
Once training is completed, submit evidence to claim your funding. The CITB Employer Network makes it straightforward to access reimbursement through the adult training funding scheme.


Key Benefits of CITB Funded Training for SMEs

  1. Substantial Savings: Access up to 70% funding for eligible industry-backed funded courses
  2. Workforce Development: Bridge skills gaps with quality funded courses and improve productivity.
  3. Compliance and Growth: Stay ahead of industry standards with support from the building and construction training fund.
  4. Flexible Options: Choose from a range of CITB funded training tailored to your team’s needs.


Take the Next Step in Accessing CITB Funding

Navigating CITB funding is a straightforward way for SMEs to access funding for courses and upskill their workforce. With up to 70% of training costs covered through the CITB Employer Network, there’s no better time to invest in employee development. If you’ve been asking, “Can I get funding for a training course?” or “How to get funding for training?,” CITB funding provides the solution.

At Essential Site Skills, we are here to help you unlock the benefits of the construction training fund and access CITB funded training opportunities.

Contact us today to explore CITB funded courses and take the next step in building a safer, more skilled workforce.