Scheme to help firms fund employee training courses

Small businesses that trade internationally could be able to apply for employee training through a European backed project, the Supplier Skills Programme (SSP).

This is part funded through the European Social Fund (ESF) and managed by Birmingham City Council.

Any company that applies for the SSP and is successful will have their training costs match funded by up to 50 per cent.

The scheme is for businesses to upskill employees or provide valuable training to new and existing team members.

Various courses that are available through the Chamber and which will benefit any company whose focus is importing or exporting may be eligible for this funding.

Members of the Chamber and non-members can apply, all that is needed is the ability to meet the criteria set out by the council.

Minimum spend is £1,000 per application. Each attendee that is participating must complete short assessments to pass the courses.

Chamber international trade training manager Leah Quarmby (pictured) said: “The courses we provide will offer guidance in the export process as well as provide key details attendees can implement into their role.

“If companies opt to apply for the great opportunity of funding through SSP, the training they choose will mean they answer assessment questions at the end of their courses, once completed, the attendee will gain themselves the Foundation Award in International Trade, a qualification awarded from the British Chambers of Commerce. ”

There are five areas across the Midlands that are eligible for the SSP. These are Birmingham, Solihull, Redditch, Wyre Forest and Bromsgrove.

For further details on courses and content, email [email protected]