Apprenticeship support & grant package for SME employers in Bolton

Apprenticeship support & grant package for SME employers in Bolton

SME apprenticeship support

Grant applications are currently closed - All 'Expressions of Interest' that have been submitted by local businesses will need to complete the full application form for consideration in April and will be advised if funding can be made available.

SME Apprenticeship Support and Grant Package

Small businesses in the borough can now take advantage of a new £1.9m apprenticeship support package from Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). The package offers workforce planning support and a local grant to support the employment of a new apprentice.

SME Workforce Planning Support

SEDA has a group of specialist advisors with all the latest knowledge around Apprenticeship training and upskilling. They provide advice on the funding available to employers across Greater Manchester.  Their goal is to share their expertise and know-how and will support your business to review and determine your business needs, helping you to identify the right apprenticeship programme to support your business.  

SME Apprentice Support Grant

SME businesses in Bolton will have access to a grant of £3000 to support the employment of a new apprentice (any age).

To be eligible, businesses would be required to:

  • Be located in Bolton
  • Ensure the apprenticeship is a new opportunity, adding to the headcount for the organisation
  • Pay the apprentice at least the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for age
  • Have not employed an apprentice for the last 2 years
  • Be a non-levy payer i.e. has a pay bill of less than £3m per year

 

Grant application

For businesses that are not eligible a referral can be made to SEDA for apprenticeship workforce planning support.  If you are not sure if your business is ready to take on an apprenticeship SEDA will be able to provide business advice and guidance.

Fully completed grant applications will be considered by Business Bolton within four weeks.  We advise that you secure approval for the grant before the apprentice starts employment as funding cannot be guaranteed until it is determined that the business meets the terms and conditions within the grant application.