CITB Grants & Funding Updates – What Employers Need to Know for 2026

Introduction

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced updates to its grants and funding offer, which will take effect from 8 January 2026.

As employers and training providers plan their workforce development for the year ahead, it’s important to understand what’s changing, why, and how to make the most of the available support. This guide summarises the key points, helping you and your teams navigate the transition smoothly.

Why These Changes Are Being Made

Since 2021, CITB has expanded support to 36% more unique employers without increasing Levy rates. While this is a positive achievement, it means that demand for financial support will soon exceed Levy income.

To ensure sustainability, CITB is prioritising funding where it can have the greatest impact across the industry, supporting employers strategically while managing resources effectively.

Key Changes from 8 January 2026

1. Short Course Training

• Only Plant Operations, Scaffolding, and other specialist courses will continue to be supported through Grants Scheme.
• Support for all other short courses will now be delivered exclusively via Employer Networks (EN).
• Bookings made before 8 December 2025, and completed between 8 January and 31 March 2026, will be honoured if evidence of the original booking date is provided.

Employers should note that any short training already booked before 8 December will be supported at current grant rates, provided evidence is supplied.

2. Booking Requirements

Employers are encouraged to contact their local CITB adviser, who will assist in identifying and booking training needs under the new framework.

3. Employer Network (EN) Funding

• CITB will match fund 50% of eligible courses through the EN.
• Health & Safety in Construction and associated courses will be supported at 30% of average market rate.
• The EN fund has a finite, fixed annual budget and will be carefully managed to ensure support is distributed fairly.
• First Aid training will not be supported under EN funding.

The full list of supported courses is available on the CITB website.

4. Qualification Grant Changes

• Attendance grants for long qualifications will be removed.
• Achievement grants of £600 will remain.
• Level 7 qualifications will no longer be supported.

Note: Level 7 Apprenticeships and Scottish Advanced Craft Certifications (SCQF Level 7, equivalent to QCF Level 5) are not affected by these changes.

5. Large Employers

• Large employers will not be supported for any training via EN funding after 31 March 2026.
• CITB is developing a new offer for large employers, set to launch from 1 April 2026, co-designed in consultation with industry.

How Employers Can Prepare

Understanding and navigating these updates is essential for planning effective training and development strategies. Employers should:

1. Review the list of supported courses for EN funding.
2. Contact their local CITB adviser to discuss training needs and funding eligibility.
3. Ensure that any bookings made before 8 December are documented to qualify for grants in early 2026.
4. Keep an eye on updates regarding the new offer for large employers launching in April 2026.

Support and Resources

CITB is committed to helping employers understand these changes. A series of informative webinars will provide guidance and practical advice on how to plan training under the new framework.

For further support:

• Reach out to your local CITB adviser
• Visit the CITB dedicated support page

These resources are designed to help employers plan ahead with confidence, ensuring teams remain compliant, skilled, and ready for 2026.

Conclusion

The CITB grants and funding changes from January 2026 reflect a shift towards strategic, sustainable support for the UK construction industry. By understanding the updates and leveraging Employer Networks, employers can continue to access training that strengthens safety, compliance, and workforce competence.

To make the most of grants and funding before the change, why not book your course online: https://www.pragmatic-consulting.co.uk/courses/

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