20m management training fund announced for small businesses by government

Skills Minister John Hayes has called on senior leaders in SMEs to take advantage of funding that will support leadership and management training to help them grow their businesses.

About 13,000 small and medium sized businesses and social enterprises that display a potential for development will benefit from the Leadership and Management growth grant. This will help encourage innovation and employment, boosting the economy and helping develop a bigger and more cohesive society.

A match funded grant of up to £1,000 can be spent on leadership training and coaching that helps grow the business, improving productivity and competitiveness. The programme also includes a free consultation with an expert adviser before the training commences, as well as a free follow-up to discuss the impact of the training and any further skills needs.

Skills minister, John Hayes said: "This government will back businesses that want to boost their skills. We're spending more than ever on apprenticeships, freeing up training providers from red tape, and focusing public spending where it is most needed to drive growth. Effective leadership can make the difference between survival and growth, and this fund will give vital support to entrepreneurs who want to continue to develop their businesses."

Dr. Mark Brenner, chief executive, Building Engineering Services Training (BEST) added: "This scheme is very timely for the building service engineering sector with available training for supervisory and first line managers from BEST. Leadership skills are a vital component of a growing company's skillset and will provide a strong platform for productivity improvement much needed in our sector. The BEST leadership and management training schemes are delivered under the ILM qualifications programme leading to diploma/NVQ's that are compliant with skills cards needs. Please contact your local BEST representative who will be able to help you access funds for this scheme."