Businesses across Caithness and north Sutherland can now benefit from a new funding initiative designed to strengthen workforce skills and support long-term growth.
The FutureSkills Flexible Training Grant Scheme, delivered by Caithness Business Fund and funded by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) and NRS Dounreay, can offer grants of between £2,500 and £10,000 to small and medium-sized enterprises operating within the Dounreay travel-to-work area.
The scheme supports businesses to invest in high-quality training that enables employees to upskill and reskill, helping to boost productivity, enhance workforce resilience, and support ongoing professional development.
This latest initiative forms part of a wider programme of investment from Caithness Business Fund aimed at addressing regional skills gaps and supporting inclusive economic growth across the North Highlands.
Trudy Morris, Director of Caithness Business Fund and Chief Executive of North Highland Chamber of Commerce, said: “As a Chamber, we recognise that these are challenging economic times, particularly for small businesses. The long-term sustainability of our vital SME sector depends on their ability to attract, retain and develop a skilled workforce.
“We are grateful to the NDA and NRS Dounreay for their support in funding this flexible grant scheme, which provides a practical and accessible way for local businesses to invest in their people and strengthen their future prospects.”
A spokesperson for NRS Dounreay said: “Building on the success of the FutureSkills Apprentice Fund, Dounreay is pleased to support the Flexible Training Grant Scheme as another lever in a targeted collaboration between Focus North partners to increase capability and opportunity in the local economy.”
To find out more about the ways in which Caithness Business Fund can support your business you read the application guidelines online here or get intouch with the Fund team to find out more: Tel: 01847 500104 and Email: enquiries@caithnessbusinessfund.co.uk
Caithness Business Fund
Naver Business Centre, Naver House, Naver Road, Thurso, Caithness, KW14 7QA
Registered in Scotland: SC450693
