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Small and medium-sized enterprises

Woman with her own small business, sitting at a desk with a laptop and packaging materials. Many of Scotland’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) need to upskill or reskill their workforce to boost productivity and growth or adapt to future jobs needs.

We work with enterprise and skills agencies, representative and member organisations to reach SMEs and provide support through a range of workforce development solutions.


Flexible Workforce Development Fund 2021-22: Phase 2

We’re delighted that small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Scotland can access training up to the value of £5,000* delivered by The Open University to support upskilling or retraining employees leading to enhanced productivity and growth. This Flexible Workforce Development Fund (FWDF) for organisations with fewer than 250 employees is from the Scottish Government.

We will help businesses with a tailored suite of training for employees, delivered online through the OU’s innovative platforms. This is a highly flexible way to access the training you need in the workplace or from home whilst accommodating operational requirements.

Workforce development options will focus on areas where skills gaps exist across Scotland like business, leadership, management, IT, digital, sustainability and the green economy.

The OU will support SMEs through training solutions at Scottish Credit & Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 10 undergraduate or SCQF level 11 (postgraduate level) and through industry recognised or accredited provision.

How can I find out more?

Visit our Flexible Workforce Development Fund page for more information and to contact us.

You can also read a case study from an employer who has used the fund to train their team. 

Contact us

For more information please contact our
External Engagement & Partnerships Team