VocTech Seed provides grants of up to £50,000 for innovative, early stage digital vocational learning projects that show real ambition to scale and eventually reach large numbers of learners. VocTech Seed will provide funding for projects lasting up to 12 months duration.
What is VocTech SEED looking for?
This is an open call and we are interested in creative and interesting ideas from all industries, sectors, occupations, and technologies.
VTS will fund the design and development of novel approaches to digital vocational learning; helping to take those ideas through basic prototyping to the next stage of 'seeding the market' by delivering a proof of concept tested with a number of learners.
This includes projects looking to adapt an existing approach to a new market, industry or community of learners; or developing digital technologies to significantly advance an existing learning approach.
Projects aimed at any and every aspect of vocational learning, including but not limited to: design and development of learning tools, new delivery models, evaluation and assessment, accreditation and recording evidence of achievement.
We are particularly keen to support projects which will have potential long term impact on employers, sectors or communities of learners who cannot easily access current provision because of industry or market conditions, past learning history or other factors.
What kinds of organisations can apply?
VocTech Seed fund is open to all organisations, including charities, trade bodies, learning providers and employers who would like to test new approaches to using digital technology for vocational learning. Demonstrating a collaborative approach can strengthen applications, especially where employers and digital learning specialists are working together.
VTS is particularly suitable for early stage businesses, digital innovators and other organisations looking to test new digital approaches. It is also relevant for those currently working in other markets who can see opportunities to adapt their approach to vocational learning.
VTS is a 2-stage application process. In Stage 1 applicants must complete a written application that will be assessed by a panel of assessors. If successful, applicants will be invited to complete a more detailed application form and project plan for assessment and review before the final selection is made by the Ufi Board of Trustees.