From 1 April 2026, the CITB Employer Networks funding model will change, introducing a revised approach for smaller businesses and a new fund specifically for larger construction companies.
The changes aim to help ensure training funding is distributed fairly across the industry while continuing to support construction businesses in developing skills and addressing workforce shortages.
Below is a breakdown of what is changing and how it may affect your business.
Why the Changes Are Being Introduced
The construction industry is currently facing significant skills shortages. To help address this, the UK Government has committed over £600 million to support skills development and train up to 60,000 new workers.
At the same time, participation in CITB training programmes has increased. Over the past four years, engagement with programmes such as Employer Networks has grown by 36%, showing strong demand for training across the sector.
As a result, CITB is adjusting how funding is distributed to ensure support can continue reaching as many businesses as possible.
What’s Changing for Small and Medium Construction Businesses
Businesses employing between 1 and 249 people will still be able to access training through the Employer Networks programme.
Training will continue to be supported through:
- 50% match funding for eligible training
- Fixed contributions for health and safety courses
For the 2026–2027 financial year, the Employer Networks budget has been set at £11.5 million. To ensure the funding supports as many businesses as possible, maximum funding caps will apply depending on company size.
Employer Networks Funding Caps
| Business Size | Number of Employees | Maximum Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Micro businesses | 1–9 employees | £1,500 |
| Small businesses | 10–49 employees | £2,000 |
| Medium businesses | 50–249 employees | £4,500 |
Changes for Large Construction Companies
Also from April 2026, large construction companies employing 250 or more people will no longer access funding through Employer Networks.
Instead, CITB is introducing a new Large Employer Fund, which will be available for the 2026–2027 financial year.
Overview
The new fund will provide:
- Up to £18,000 in training funding
- Funding for eligible in-scope training
- Payments based on a training plan or evidence of completed training
This fund is intended as a temporary solution, while CITB works with large employers to develop a longer-term support model.
Large businesses will be able to submit an Expression of Interest between 1 April and 30 June 2026 via the CITB website.
Supporting Your Training Needs
Understanding the different funding options available can help construction businesses maximise their training budgets and ensure teams remain compliant, skilled, and safe.
HCS Safety provides a range of health and safety training courses for the construction industry, including CITB-related training that may be eligible for funding support.
If you would like more information about training options or how funding may apply to your business, the HCS Safety team is happy to help. Email HCS Safety
