Antrim and Newtownabbey Council launches Skills and Development Fund
Residents and businesses across Antrim and Newtownabbey are being encouraged to take advantage of two funding opportunities designed to develop skills, improve career prospects and help address local skills shortages.
The Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership is reopening applications for its Learning Fund and Employee Upskilling Fund, offering financial support to individuals looking to develop their skills and businesses wishing to invest in their existing workforce.
With grants of up to £10,000 available to businesses and up to £1,000 available to individuals, the funding aims to support skills development, create employment opportunities and strengthen the local economy.
The Learning Fund is designed to help Antrim and Newtownabbey residents build new skills, gain recognised qualifications and take steps towards the job or career they want. Individuals can apply for grants of up to £500 towards training and qualifications, or up to £1,000 towards HGV or Coach licences. The fund supports residents who want to improve their employment prospects, progress in their current career or gain the qualifications needed to access new opportunities.
The Employee Upskilling Fund offers grants of up to £10,000 to help local micro, small and medium-sized businesses upskill existing employees and address skills shortages within their workforce. Funded training must support employees to progress into higher-paid roles, helping businesses develop their workforce while creating new entry-level employment opportunities for local residents. All funded training must be completed by February 27, 2027 with final grant claims submitted by March 10.
The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan said: “These funding opportunities are a great way to invest in the skills and potential of our residents and local businesses. I would encourage anyone looking to develop their skills, progress their career or strengthen their workforce to find out more and take advantage of the support available.”
Applications for both funding opportunities are now open and will close on Monday, November 30. Funding is limited, and applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, allowing for collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.
To apply or for full details, including eligibility criteria, application guidance notes and FAQs, are available at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/grants.