Important CITB Grant Funding Changes 2025

Enhanced Grants – Ending 31 December 2025

CITB has confirmed the withdrawal of Enhanced Grant rates from 31 December 2025 (previously March 2026).

From January 2026, only the standard £600 short qualification grant will apply to all Level 2–7 NVQs where recognised for funding.

Skills and Training Fund (STF) Closure

The Skills and Training Fund (STF) is being phased out.
All active STF projects must be fully completed and closed down by October 2026.
For approved-upfront projects, any unspent funds must be returned to CITB.
Future employer support will transition through Employer Networks – currently this excludes NVQ support.

Employer Network (EN) Funding – 70/ 30 split

EN funding currently offers 70% CITB support / 30% employer contribution.
NVQs are not included in Employer Network funding.
All NVQs now follow the standard £600 Short Qualification Grant, where recognised by CITB for grant purposes.

FAQs

What’s changing with Enhanced Grants?

Enhanced Grant rates will end on 31 December 2025, earlier than previously announced (originally March 2026). From January 2026 onwards, only the standard £600 Short Qualification Grant will apply to all Level 2–7 NVQs that are recognised by CITB for grant funding.

What happens to the Skills and Training Fund (STF)?

The Skills and Training Fund is being phased out. All active STF projects must be fully completed and closed down by October 2026. For approved-upfront projects, any unspent funds must be returned to CITB. Future employer support will transition through Employer Networks, although NVQs are not currently included in this model.

What are Employer Networks (ENs)?

Employer Networks are a collaborative funding model that allows employers to work together locally with support from CITB. EN funding currently offers a 70 percent CITB contribution and a 30 percent employer contribution. This approach is designed to encourage more local, employer-led training activity.

Can NVQs be funded through Employer Networks?

No. NVQs are not included in Employer Network funding at this time. NVQs will continue to be supported through the standard £600 Short Qualification Grant, where recognised by CITB for grant purposes.

When should employers act?

Employers currently using Enhanced Grants or the Skills and Training Fund should plan ahead. Projects should be completed before the relevant closure deadlines, and training plans should be reviewed to align with the new funding structures that take effect from January 2026. Employers are encouraged to engage with Employer Networks to explore new options for training support.