Small Business. Big Skills.

At FSB, we know hiring the right people is challenging. We’re supporting you to build a skilled team, whatever your sector. From apprenticeships to industry placements, explore free advice and guidance to help your business grow. Unlock opportunities to connect with education providers and train new talent. Let’s close the skills gap for small businesses.

Get started today at fsb.org.uk/skills

#SmallBusinessBigSkills knowledge. T Levels Ambassador Hugh McPhillips, a consultant specialising in fabrication and welder training, is passionate about engaging with local colleges and students to ensure vital skills are passed on to the next generation. “We need a well-educated workforce which is adaptable and can take on the challenges of the future. Lots of small companies might only take on one or two people to train up, but it’s imperative that the individual fits into the environment and has a good experience,” says Hugh.

Upskilling small businesses

Training is sometimes perceived as an expensive ‘nice-to-have’ by businesses, especially those with tight resource constraints. Training and development are often de-prioritised when planning how to grow a business. However, as well as looking to the next generation of talent, retraining and upskilling existing employees can help to bridge skills gaps in a business. “The skills of business owners and their staff are central to running and growing a successful business. Aside from the more tangible benefits of learning new skills, such as the development of new products or technologies, training improves business competitiveness, efficiency and longerterm effectiveness,” says Tina McKenzie, FSB Chair, Policy and Advocacy.

Whether it’s Continuous Professional Development (CPD) or health and safety compliance courses, businesses offering training often see increased employee engagement, improved retention and a competitive edge in the market. Putting a plan in place to identify training needs and skills gaps to operate efficiently and grow is the first step to finding the right training opportunities. FSB has recently launched a new training offer to support its members, bringing small businesses and the self-employed hundreds of discounted certified courses covering a range of sectors.

For small businesses looking to recruit, train and upskill their workforce, FSB’s skills hub has free resources, downloadable guides and small business stories.

Visit fsb.org.uk/skills today