CITB Employer Network – Explained
The CITB Employer Network is a funding initiative created to make construction training easier to access and simpler to manage for CITB-registered employers. Through this programme, eligible employers can access up to £25,000 per year in training support, helping businesses invest in skills development without the administrative burden often associated with funding applications.
Who Can Join the Employer Network?
To be eligible, employers must:
- Be CITB registered
- Have submitted their most recent levy return
- Be up to date with levy payments
- Sign the CITB Employer Network Commitment Statement, which outlines the responsibilities of both CITB and the employer
There is no restriction on employer size – small, medium, and large businesses can all access the scheme.
Key Benefits of the Employer Network
Simple Access to Training and Funding
When you join the Employer Network, you are supported by a local Employer Network Adviser. They manage the process on your behalf — from arranging training to securing funding. You simply identify the training your workforce needs, and the adviser takes care of the rest, removing the need for complex forms or lengthy applications.
Up to 70% of Training Costs Funded
One of the main advantages of the Employer Network is the level of financial support available. CITB can cover up to 70% of training costs, meaning employers typically only pay the remaining 30% directly to the training provider.
Flexible, No Long-Term Planning Required
Unlike some other funding options, such as the Skills & Training Fund, the Employer Network does not require training to be planned many months in advance. This makes it ideal for employers who need training at short notice or on an ad-hoc basis.
Broader Range of Funded Courses
Courses funded through the Employer Network do not always need to be mapped to a specific CITB standard or be traditionally grant-claimable. There is no fixed list of eligible courses — instead, funding is assessed on a case-by-case basis based on employer need. In practice, this has allowed employers to access funding for courses that are not normally supported through other routes, such as IOSH Managing Safely and First Aid training.
Training can be delivered in-person, online, or via eLearning, giving employers flexibility in how courses are delivered.
Can Be Used Alongside Other CITB Funding
Employer Network funding can be accessed in addition to other CITB funding streams, including the Skills & Training Fund and Achievement Grants, provided the same course is not funded twice.
Locally Led, Employer-Focused
Employer Networks operate at a local level, allowing training support to reflect the needs of regional employers and the local construction industry. Since being introduced in 2022, the scheme has proved to be a valuable and practical funding route for employers across the UK.
How To Join The CITB Employer Network
Whatever your business or organization size you can sign up directly to the CITB Employer Network here: Register Now
You have nothing to lose and it also provides you an opportunity to drive the direction of CITB training funding into the future.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I access Employer Network funding?
As long as your business is CITB registered, levy compliant, and located within an Employer Network area, you can access this funding.
Is there a cost to join the Employer Network?
No — joining the Employer Network is completely free for levy-registered employers. You can contact your local CITB Adviser directly, or speak to Goldcross Training, who can guide you through the process.
Does the funding only apply to classroom courses?
No. Funding can be used for classroom-based, online, in-house (dedicated), and eLearning courses.
Is there a limit on how many employers can join?
There is no cap on the number of employers who can join an Employer Network, provided eligibility requirements are met.
Can Training Group members still use Employer Networks?
Yes. Employers who are part of a Training Group can still benefit from Employer Network funding. Training Group Officers work closely with Employer Network advisers to ensure employers receive the most appropriate support.
Where Can I Find More Details about the Employer Network?
Details of Employer Network regions and contact information are available on the CITB website. Alternatively, Goldcross Training can introduce you to the appropriate Employer Network and help you get started.