Flexible Skills Programme — 2026/27 Tranche
Funds Welsh employers to build workforce capability, including specialist training in artificial intelligence tools.
The Flexible Skills Programme (FSP) is a Welsh Government initiative administered through Business Wales that reimburses Wales-based businesses for 50% of the cost of accredited workforce training, up to a maximum Welsh Government contribution of £50,000 per application. A current AI training pilot stream offers an enhanced 75% reimbursement rate for artificial intelligence skills training; businesses interested in the AI pilot should contact dfesrm@gov.wales. The programme is sector-agnostic and accepts applications on a rolling basis throughout the year; decisions are typically issued within 10 working days of submission. Training must be delivered by accredited or industry-standard providers, and all staff training must be completed by 31 March 2027, the current tranche's hard deadline.
Eligible applicants are businesses based in Wales that are financially solvent. Public sector bodies, universities, and research organisations are not eligible under this programme strand. Reimbursement is paid in arrears after course completion, meaning applicants must fund training costs upfront and submit evidence of attendance and payment to claim. There is no minimum award and multiple applications per year are permitted, each subject to the £50,000 cap. The Welsh Government contribution is described as discretionary — meeting eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval.
Applicants should propose training directly linked to workforce capability needs — whether in digital, engineering, leadership, sustainability, or AI skills — using providers that hold relevant accreditation or industry recognition. The AI pilot at 75% support is the highest-rate stream and is particularly relevant to businesses investing in generative AI tools, machine learning infrastructure, or data science competencies. Businesses planning major training programmes before March 2027 should apply early, as the programme operates until funds in the current tranche are exhausted.
Accredited workforce training for Wales-based businesses, including an enhanced-rate pilot stream for artificial intelligence skills development, reimbursed at 50–75% of eligible training costs.
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