FWDF (Flexible Workforce Development Fund)

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What is the Flexible Workforce Development Fund? (FWDF)

The Flexible Workforce Development Fund (FWDF) was launched by the Scottish Government in September 2017 and is funded through contributions to the UK Apprenticeship Levy. In 2022/23 the fund will provide £10m of training to employers in Scotland.

The aim of the fund is to provide eligible employers with workforce development training to up-skill and re-skill their existing workforce. This training will enable employers to address skills gaps within their workforce and allow them to become more productive and efficient, as well as helping with post-COVID recovery.

Key Facts

  • Maximum funding per levy-paying employer is £15,000.
  • Application closing date 31st July 2023.
  • Training programmes must commence by 31st August 2023 and be complete by 31st December 2023.
  • Non-levy paying SMEs can apply for up to £5,000 of funding under the FWDF in year 6 to help address skills gaps in their workforce, see more detail on this.
  • Funding is also available to Levy-payers and SMEs via the SDS/independent training providers route for more specialist training that cannot be delivered by a college or OUiS. Referral for this should be made by local colleges.

Applications for the current year (year 6) are open until 31st July 2023, and funding will be allocated on a ‘first come’ basis. If you’d like to apply or find out more please email us at ACbusiness@uhi.ac.uk or contact your local learning centre.