The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is streamlining its grant and funding system—here’s what’s changing, why it matters, and what employers should do next.
1. Closure of the Skills & Training Fund (30 September 2025)
CITB is simplifying how financial support is accessed. The current overlap between Employer Networks (ENs) and the Skills & Training (S&T) Fund has caused confusion, so from 30 September 2025, the S&T Fund will close, and Employer Networks will become the single route for training support. Any applications already approved will be honoured, but new applications will follow payment-on-completion terms.
2. New Online Grant Portal (Launching 24 September 2025)
To modernise access to funding, CITB is launching a new online services platform on 24 September 2025. Through this portal, employers can:
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Apply for Apprenticeship and Qualification grants online
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Track their application status
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Manage account access more efficiently
3. New Short-Qualification Grant Tier (From September 2025)
Recognising the lower cost and shorter duration of Award-level qualifications, CITB is introducing a new grant tier at £240 (down from £600). This change reflects cost alignment and takes effect for all such qualifications from September 2025.
4. Early End to Industry Accreditation Grant Uplift (31 December 2025)
A grant uplift aimed at supporting qualifications needed to replace Industry Accreditation cards (e.g., after the CLC removed those cards) will now end on 31 December 2025, earlier than the previously announced March 2026 end date. After that point, grants for those qualifications will revert to the standard £600.
5. Into Work Grant Pilot Ends (30 November 2025)
The pilot scheme designed to support employers providing work placements for post-16 education participants will conclude on 30 November 2025.
6. Closure of ‘Suggest a Course’ Initiative
CITB has decided to close this feedback channel now that Employer Networks are more firmly established and better able to identify and communicate local training needs.
Why These Changes Are Happening
CITB CEO Tim Balcon explained that, while funding levels continue to play a crucial role, the main challenge has been complexity and accessibility. With a 17% increase in levy contributions and a 50% rise in grants paid out between 2022–2024, streamlining was needed to sustain broad support across employers.
By transitioning to Employer Networks and launching a modern portal, CITB aims to make funding more equitable, responsive, and easier to navigate—especially for smaller firms.
Key Dates Summary
| Date | Change |
|---|---|
| 24 Sept 2025 | New online grant portal launches |
| 30 Sept 2025 | Closure of the Skills & Training Fund; move to Employer Networks |
| Sept 2025 | Introduction of £240 Award-level grant tier |
| 30 Nov 2025 | End of Into Work grant pilot |
| 31 Dec 2025 | End of Industry Accreditation grant uplift |
| 1 Jan 2026 | Enhanced NVQ grants revert to standard £600 |
What Employers Should Do Now
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Act fast—grant timelines are tight
If you have teams aiming for enhanced grant rates (like for management/supervisory NVQs), ensure completion by 31 December 2025 to retain the higher funding. -
Use that Skills & Training Fund while it’s still available
Apply before 30 September 2025 if your projects qualify. Post that, you’ll have to access support via Employer Networks. -
Get to know your local Employer Network
These are now the main channel for accessing funding, so connecting with them early is essential. -
Prepare for the new portal
From 24 September, you’ll be able to apply and track grants online. Make sure your systems and staff are ready to use it. -
Plan for reduced grant rates
From 2026, grant levels for NVQs will fall significantly—from up to £1,500 down to £600. If you’re planning qualifications, act before the year-end deadline.
