By Taymer Pugh, Key Account Manager at GM Business Growth Hub 

What is an Apprenticeship Levy, and why do we need to have an Apprenticeship Levy Match?

The Apprenticeship Levy, introduced by the UK government in 2017, aims to fund new apprenticeships and support skills development across the workforce. While the levy has been a significant step towards enhancing vocational training, many large companies find themselves with unused levy funds. This is where the Apprenticeship Levy Match comes into play, offering a win-win solution for both donating and receiving companies. 

Use it while it lasts - Donating Unused Funds is better than losing it 

Large companies often accumulate substantial levy funds that remain unused. Instead of letting these funds expire, companies can donate up to 50% of their annual levy pot to other businesses. Here’s how donating unused funds can benefit large companies: 

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Donating unused levy funds aligns with CSR goals, demonstrating a commitment to supporting other businesses and the wider community. This can enhance the company’s reputation and strengthen relationships with stakeholders. 
• Strengthening the Supply Chain: By supporting smaller businesses within their supply chain, large companies can help ensure these partners have the skilled workforce needed to meet demand. This can lead to more reliable and efficient supply chain operations. 
• Positive Publicity: Companies that actively support apprenticeships and skills development can gain positive publicity, enhancing their brand image and attracting top talent. 

Ask if you want to receive – Request for donated funds when your pots are exhausted 

On the flip side, large companies that have exhausted their levy pots can benefit from receiving donated funds. Here’s how: 

• Continued Skills Development: Receiving additional funds allows companies to continue investing in apprenticeships and skills development, even when their own levy funds are depleted. This ensures a continuous pipeline of skilled workers. 
• Cost Savings: By receiving donated funds, companies can reduce the financial burden of training and development, freeing up resources for other strategic initiatives. 
• Enhanced Workforce Capabilities: Ongoing investment in apprenticeships helps build a more capable and versatile workforce, which can drive innovation and improve overall business performance. 
• Collaboration Opportunities: Engaging in the levy match scheme can foster collaboration between businesses, leading to shared best practices and potentially new business opportunities. 

Alison Lightfoot, Quality Assurance and Development Manager at The FED, said: 

“I heard about Co-op Levy Share through our Growth Company Key Account Manager, Taymer Pugh, as we had used up our Levy money and had six staff applying for a QCF Diploma qualification. The process was straightforward. I submitted a business case rationale for the six new learners and received a quick response from an employer willing to ‘gift’ their Levy money.” 

“It has enabled us to continue the support of care staff to enroll onto a qualification relevant to their job role and development. Developing employees through these qualifications increases their awareness, knowledge, and skills required for their job role. It enables them to better understand what is required of them, the importance of their role within the organization, and how their growth and development help to meet our vision and values through excellent care, communication, and customer service.” 

Whether donating unused funds or receiving additional support, the levy match scheme offers a strategic advantage that benefits all parties involved. Get in touch to see how you can make the most of this scheme.