The Further Education (FE) Specialisation and Innovation fund has been created to help England compete in the global skills race by putting the FE sector at the heart of improving the skills of businesses and individuals.

The monies will be used to help unlock the talent of the FE workforce and drive business innovation. This will enable FE colleges and training providers to refine and expand the way they manage and deliver their employer training solutions. It will also allow them to learn from their experiences, and share that learning more widely.

The fund will help the sector drive a collaborative and practical approach to innovation through a small number of targeted pathfinder projects.

Innovation minister, Ian Pearson, said: “One of the key challenges facing this country is the skills race – a race which we can and must win. The further education system is at the heart of helping deliver the Government’s aim to make the UK the leading place in the world to be an innovative business or public service. The Specialisation and Innovation Fund will help FE colleges to connect with business and enhance their reputation for innovation and specialism - establishing their vital support role in helping businesses to succeed in the global knowledge economy.” 

Bids are now being taken and successful providers will be notified in the autumn.  Funding of between £250,000-800,000 will be available for one year for successful applicants and providers need to apply by September 17th to be eligible.

The Learning and Skills Council are looking for FE colleges and training providers with fresh ideas backed with strong delivery plans which demonstrate eligibility, sustainability, potential and connectivity. Providers are encouraged to use the fund to connect with business and demonstrate their ability to deliver tailored high quality training.

For more information or to apply for the fund visit www.lsc.gov.uk/Innovation or contact Innovation@lsc.gov.uk.

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