A new opportunity for the off-site construction industry was created today.  The UK Futures Programme announced that it is prepared to co-invest with the industry to test innovative solutions to its challenges.  Up to £600,000 is available to co-invest with employers.

Research with employers in the off-site construction industry identified a series of skills challenges holding back its potential and conversations with the industry have revealed an appetite to address these challenges.  The UK Futures Programme is therefore seeking proposals that bring off-site construction employers together with key partners to tackle these challenges as part of a wider agenda to advance the industry in the UK.

The closing date for proposals is Weds 18th June.

Further information is available from the UK Futures Programme website (https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ukces-futures-programme-overview) including:
• An introduction to the UK Futures Programme • The Off-Site Construction competition brief • The application form and guidance for applicants will be available shortly

The UKCES Research underpinning the Competition can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technology-and-skills-in-the-construction-industry

The UK Futures Programme is administered by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills.  It offers opportunities for businesses across the UK to develop innovative solutions to long-standing or emerging skills issues that are restricting business performance. It operates by launching highly targeted and specific competitions, the first of which focuses on off-site construction. The UKCES is a publicly funded, industry-led organisation that offers guidance on skills and employment issues in the UK.