£1 million of funding has been set aside to help SMEs in Scotland get their staff up to speed with essential upskilling.

Training can be delivered to both staff and volunteers of these organisations. Eligibility can be checked on the OU website.  

Marie Hendry, the Deputy Director of External Engagement and Partnerships at The Open University in Scotland, said: “This funding provides a great opportunity for those small and medium-sized enterprises that are the lifeblood of the Scottish economy to develop their existing workforce.”

“We know that Scotland’s SMEs have been particularly affected by the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and these organisations and their people will play a crucial role in Scotland’s recovery.”

“Our tailored training plans will help SMEs to upskill and retrain their existing workforce to maximise the opportunities to restart and recover.”  

Courses offered by the OU reflect the skill priorities for Scotland. These include short courses, microcredentials, undergraduate and postgraduate modules in leadership and business; digital and IT; health and social care; and green economy. 

The cash injection comes as part of Phase 2 of the Scottish Government’s Flexible Workforce Development Fund – a bid to help SMEs address key skill gaps and adapt to new flexible ways of working. Applications for FWDF 2021-22: Phase 2, launch today. 

SMEs are being advised to apply as soon as possible, as access to the fund will be on a first-come-first-served basis. 

The OU offers a flexible digital delivery model that allows individuals to develop skills around existing business and personal commitments. 

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Suzanne McQuade, the Business Relationships Manager at The Open University in Scotland, has said: “Individuals can access our innovative online training in the workplace or from home at a time to suit while accommodating ongoing business operations.

“We’d encourage any SME across the private, public and third sector to get in touch to discuss the delivery of a development programme that is tailored to the needs of their organisation” 

This adaptive model gives employers the opportunity to future-proof and invest in their workforce. Directors of SMEs across Scotland have already shown support for the programme. 

Maria Bell, the Managing Director of Mesomorphic Ltd., commented, “As a SME working with The Open University in Scotland to develop our workforce, we really benefit from the university’s experience with distance learning.” 

“It is ideal for rural businesses looking to provide flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities to staff within their local community.”