The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is inviting small and micro-sized businesses to apply for its Skills and Training fund to help equip workforces for the future. Eligible businesses could be awarded from £2,500 to £10,000 depending on number of employees and are now are able to apply twice a year – previously CITB were only able to accept one application in a 12 month period.

To be eligible, you must: have up to 99 directly employed staff (including yourself); be a CITB-registered employer and up to date with your Levy Returns and if you've had any previous money from the Skills and Training fund, these projects must be complete.

Funding options are divided into four tiers:

• Employers with CIS only (no PAYE) can receive up to £2,500
• Employers with 1 to 49 directly-employed staff can receive up to £5,000
• Employers with 50 to 74 directly-employed staff can receive up to £7,500
• Employers with 75 to 99 directly-employed staff can receive up to £10,000.

For further information and to apply, please visit CITB online.