Government fund set up to boost leadership and management training

The government has set up a leadership and management training fund that it says will benefit around 13,000 SMEs and help boost the economy and develop a "bigger and more cohesive society" .

Businesses and social enterprises that can demonstrate a potential for growth will be able to access funding from the Leadership and Management development grant.

This is a match funded grant of up to £1,000 that can be spent on leadership training and coaching that helps grow the business, improving productivity and competitiveness.

The government hopes it will help stimulate innovation and employment and 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 is calling on senior leaders in SMEs to take advantage of the funding.

He said: "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."

The fund is being promoted directly to businesses by the regional Leadership and Management Advisory Service.

SMEs can contact the LMAS via www.businesslink.gov.uk to book a free personal leadership and management assessment and see if they are elegible for funding.