Agents of Change - Supporting SMEs through apprenticeship brokerage services
The Growth Company Education and Skills is proud to be a partner in Edge Foundation’s Apprenticeships Work campaign. As the UK faces persistent skills shortages and economic uncertainty, apprenticeships offer the perfect solution. But for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the barriers to hiring apprentices remain high. That’s how we can help...
We’ve joined this campaign because we believe in the transformative power of apprenticeships, not just for young people, but for the businesses and communities they serve. We aim to break down barriers, making it easier for SMEs to engage with apprenticeships. From recruitment support to navigating funding and mentoring, we’re helping SMEs unlock the potential of local talent. Why now? Because the numbers tell a worrying story. Before the apprenticeship levy was introduced, SMEs accounted for 54% of apprenticeship starts. Today, that figure has dropped to just 37%. And yet, 92% of apprentices in SMEs are aged 16–24. These are the very opportunities that drive social mobility, support local economies and build the future workforce. If we don’t act now, we risk losing them.
We’re proud to be part of the Growth Company, the UK’s largest social enterprise and through our extensive services, we’re helping SMEs match with motivated people and access financial incentives. And it’s not just through Education and Skills, GM Business Growth Hub provides fully funded support to Greater Manchester businesses, including leadership and workforce development. From foundational skills like English and maths to understanding net zero, at the Growth Company you’re never too old to learn something new.
Jon-Paul Rimington, Director, the Growth Company Education and Skills“We are a leading social enterprise delivering insight, business, employment and skills support. Working with our partners, customers and colleagues, we are proud to be a national exemplar for inclusive growth, driving economic, social and environmental change. We provide end-to-end business support and financial services for public, private and third sector commissioners, designed to create jobs, enable growth and improve lives.”
We’re excited to be part of a campaign that’s not just advocating for change but actively creating it. Together, we’re calling on government to protect SME apprenticeship funding, expand support services, and recognise the vital role SMEs play in delivering opportunity and growth. Apprenticeships work, and with the right support, they can work even better for everyone.
Written by
Jon-Paul Rimington, Director, the Growth Company Education and Skills