BFDT Education & Training Grants

The British Footwear Development Trust (BFDT) provides grant funding to support skills development, education and professional training across the UK footwear industry. Established to help strengthen the sector’s long-term competitiveness and sustainability, the programme supports both individual professionals and footwear businesses seeking to invest in workforce development, innovation and specialist expertise.

The scheme is open to organisations and individuals working across all areas of the footwear supply chain, including design, product development, manufacturing, retail, logistics, sourcing and repair. Funding can be used to support a wide range of learning opportunities, from short courses and technical training through to recognised qualifications and hands-on practical skills development. In some cases, grants may also contribute towards equipment, software or tools where these are directly linked to training and learning outcomes.

For businesses, the programme offers an opportunity to upskill employees, introduce structured training programmes and improve organisational capability in areas such as sustainability, innovation, digital technologies and advanced manufacturing techniques. BFDT aims to help companies respond to changing industry demands, adopt new technologies and develop the skills needed to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Grant awards typically support specific education and training projects that demonstrate a clear development need, commitment to learning and a positive return on investment. Applicants are expected to show how the proposed training will benefit individuals, strengthen business performance or contribute to the wider development of the UK footwear sector. Applications for the 2026 BFDT Education and Training Grant Programme opened in July 2026 and close on 30 September 2026. The programme offers funding of approximately £300 to £3,000 for eligible training and development activities, helping footwear businesses and professionals build the skills required for future growth and success.

Apply Now