Unlock Talent, Skills & Funding for Your Business

Informative and practical session designed specifically for SMEs to explore how apprenticeships, internships and funded training

Apprenticeships, Internships & Workforce Upskilling for SMEs

Are you looking to grow your business, strengthen your workforce, or access fresh talent — without stretching your budget?

Join us for an informative and practical session designed specifically for SMEs to explore how apprenticeships, internships and funded training opportunities can help businesses prepare for growth and future skills needs.

With major changes being introduced through the new Growth & Skills Levy, there are now more opportunities than ever for SMEs to benefit from government-supported workforce development and recruitment support. The reforms are expected to make apprenticeships more flexible and accessible, while increasing funding support for smaller businesses.

What You’ll Learn

How the new Growth & Skills Levy could benefit your business

• Apprenticeship funding and financial incentives available to SMEs
• How to recruit apprentices and interns successfully
• Opportunities to access university students for short-term projects and placements
• How apprenticeships can support staff retention, productivity and succession planning
• Ways to upskill existing employees through funded training pathways

Why Attend?

• Access affordable talent and future skills
• Discover funding and incentives available to SMEs
• Learn how to reduce recruitment and training costs
• Connect with universities and apprenticeship providers
• Hear real business success stories and practical experiences
• Prepare your workforce strategy for the year ahead

From the 2026–27 academic year, apprenticeships for many under-25s employed by non-levy paying businesses (mainly SMEs) will be fully funded by government, with additional incentives of up to £2,000 available for eligible new apprentices aged 16–24.

The Growth & Skills Levy will also introduce more flexible training options, allowing businesses to use funding for shorter and modular training programmes as well as traditional apprenticeships.

Hear From Experts & Employers

Speakers will include:

• University careers and employability advisors who can help businesses source students and graduates
• Apprenticeship and training providers
• Businesses sharing first-hand experiences of using apprenticeships and internships successfully

Whether you are considering taking on your first apprentice, exploring internships, or planning workforce development for the future, this session will provide valuable insights, practical guidance and useful connections.

Who Should Attend?

• SME owners and directors
• HR and recruitment managers
• Team leaders and operations managers
• Businesses planning growth or workforce development
• Employers interested in apprenticeships, internships or staff upskilling

Spaces are limited – reserve your place today.