CITB has released an important update outlining significant changes to its grants and funding model, coming into effect from January 2026. These changes have been introduced in response to increased demand for support, rising delivery costs, and a need to ensure long-term sustainability across the construction training sector.
As a training provider, we want to ensure our customers have full clarity on what’s changing, how it may impact your training plans, and what you can do to prepare.
Why CITB Is Making These Changes
CITB has reported a 36% increase in demand for its services over the past four years – particularly through programmes such as Employer Networks and new entrant support. Despite this, the CITB Levy rate has not increased during that time. As a result, the funding pot is being stretched further than ever before.
To continue supporting the widest number of employers, CITB is restructuring several of its grant routes and adjusting what will and will not be funded from January 2026 onwards.
Key Changes Coming Into Effect From January 2026
1. Short-Course Training Grants Will Be Removed
The popular short-course grant, used for many industry standard training courses, will no longer be available from January 2026.
Only a limited number of courses will remain grant-eligible, and most will now be supported through Employer Networks instead.
2. Employer Network Funding Reduced to 50% Match Funding
Employer Networks will continue to operate, but the funding model is changing.
Businesses will now be required to contribute 50% match funding toward eligible training delivered through the network.
3. Level 7 Qualification Grants Removed
CITB will no longer provide grants for Level 7 qualifications, including higher-level management and leadership programmes.
Attendance grants for longer-duration qualifications will also be removed.
4. Standardised £600 Achievement Grant
A new flat-rate £600 achievement grant will apply for approved non-apprenticeship qualifications, including many NVQs.
This replaces all enhanced and boosted grant rates previously available for certain levels or subject areas, including management and supervisory pathways.
Looking Ahead: More Changes From April 2026
From 1 April 2026, CITB will be restructuring support for larger employers.
Key changes include:
- Large employers moving to a single, centralised funding offer
- Removal of access to Employer Networks for large employers
This marks a shift in how CITB intends to support different employer sizes across the industry.
How These Changes May Affect Your Business
Many commonly used grants are being reduced or removed, which may increase training costs for employers in 2026. CITB acknowledges that businesses may feel the impact of these adjustments, particularly those who rely heavily on short-course grants or enhanced qualification support.
We recommend reviewing your 2025/2026 training plans early to ensure you can take advantage of the current grant structure where possible.
How We’re Supporting You
As these changes take effect, we will:
- Help you understand which qualifications will still receive funding
- Support you through Employer Network opportunities
- Advise on the most cost-effective training routes for your workforce
- Keep you updated on further CITB announcements as they are released
If you would like tailored advice on how these changes impact your organisation, or help planning your training strategy for 2026, our team is here to support you.
Alternatively, the CITB are hosting a webinar for employers on the 16th and 17th December, click here to book: https://webinars.citbevents.co.uk/home#home
