North East Scotland Investment Zone has launched a £5 million fund to support skills development and workforce capability across the region's growth industries.
Announced on 16 September 2026, the fund is supported by the Scottish Government and will provide grants for projects addressing identified skills shortages, attracting talent and helping people adapt to changing industrial requirements.
An initial £1.6 million allocation is focused on green energy and digital technology. Eligible activity may include new training provision, employer-led programmes and work to help people enter or progress within these sectors.
The fund offers grants for small pilot projects and larger initiatives, with awards of up to £750,000. Applicants must identify a skills need, explain the benefits they expect and show why the proposed work requires the funding rather than simply replacing existing activity.
The fund provides an application route for organisations developing relevant skills provision. The selected projects and their subsequent delivery will show how this part of the Investment Zone responds to industry demand.