Press Release: Jersey Chamber of Commerce launches new Skills Fund
1500 Wednesday 17th April 2019
The Jersey Chamber of Commerce Skills Fund, sponsored by Grant Thornton, is launched today (Wednesday 17th April 2019). Following the announcement at the 250th Anniversary celebrations of the Jersey Chamber last year, fund raising at the event and generous sponsorship by Grant Thornton have combined to provide an initial funding pot of in excess of £9000.
The funding could be accessed by several applicants as Chamber CEO Murray Norton explained “This Skills Fund has been created to provide an opportunity for additional funding for people who want to invest in themselves and their future, who want to upgrade their skills, knowledge and education. The primary aim is in assisting anyone in progressing their working life, whether it be to complete training or a college course, an NVQ, a diploma, a BTEC, a Foundation, an apprenticeship or a degree or other course
This Skills Fund will be awarded through a simple application process that is open to everyone who resides in Jersey, aged 18+. Grant Thornton has guaranteed sponsorship of the Skills Fund for the next three years and is keen to offer funding to improve a wide and diverse range of skills across all sectors of business. Adam Budworth, Managing Director of Grant Thornton, sees great opportunities for successful candidates to learn and develop their careers. “Not only can the funding cover the costs to progress studies, but with the vast areas of business covered by the Chamber of Commerce membership, the prospect exists to gain invaluable work experience through a placement”.
Chamber President Eliot Lincoln recognised this valuable resource as an important step for the Jersey Chamber of Commerce. “I’m delighted that Chamber are achieving a long-held wish to further extend the excellent contribution it has always made in developing the island’s business capability. This Skills Fund could be the catalyst to fulfilling a career dream and if somebody is looking to invest in themselves, their skills and future, and give something back to Jersey, they may be the ideal applicant.”
The successful candidate or candidates will be under no obligations to use the Skills Fund award in Jersey. The only obligation by accepting the Skills Fund is to update Chamber regularly as an ambassador, with their progress.
Jersey Chamber of Commerce have set up a Skills Fund Board to oversee the process. To apply, applicants initially need only email their interest to [email protected] before the 17th May 2019.