Support for skills and business
At The Skills and Business Hub, we are committed to driving sustainable economic growth across Berkshire by equipping individuals, businesses, and communities with the tools and support they need to thrive. Our work spans a range of high-impact programmes and strategic initiatives that connect education, enterprise, and innovation. View our prospectus here.
We operate at the intersection of public and private sectors, developing new models of support that respond to the evolving needs of our region plus delivering government-funded programmes. Whether it’s helping a young person discover their career path, supporting a start-up to scale, or enabling a business to become a recognised voice in their sector, our goal is simple: to unlock potential and create opportunity from classroom to boardroom.
Quick links
The Growth Academy
Berkshire Careers Hub
Skills and Apprenticeship Hub
Berkshire Skills Bootcamps
Berkshire Growth Hub
Berkshire
Innovation Cluster
Business growth doesn’t happen in isolation. The Berkshire Innovation Cluster helps established and growing businesses tackle innovation, productivity and workforce challenges by connecting them with the right expertise, partners and opportunities.
Bringing together businesses, industry leaders, universities, colleges and strategic partners, the cluster supports collaboration, technology adoption, knowledge sharing and problem-solving to help organisations move ideas forward, address barriers to growth and turn opportunities into practical action.
Executive Business Breakfast Series
Our free Executive Business Breakfast Series brings together established SMEs, larger businesses and industry leaders from across Berkshire for a programme of high-value events focused on the opportunities shaping the future of business.
The events are designed to provide practical insights, future-focused thinking, and valuable peer-to-peer networking.
Specialist Support Hubs
Growth Hub
Business support when you need it. Gain free impartial advice whatever stage of your business. Your journey; our support.
Berkshire Growth Hub delivers fully-funded support from the Department of Business and Trade to small and medium sized businesses, from start-up to high growth. Whether you are launching or ready to grow and scale your business, we can provide tailored guidance to help you achieve real results.
Our support is part of the Business Growth Service: to transform how businesses access government and partner support by creating an inspiring, seamless, and trusted experience that connects all businesses to the right advice and support when they need it most.
Skills Bootcamps & Apprenticeship Hub
Berkshire Skills Bootcamps offer flexible training programmes designed to help individuals gain in-demand skills and fast-track into jobs.
Open to adults across Berkshire, the Skills Bootcamps support career progression, retrain current staff, and provide employment opportunities. Skills Bootcamps are delivered in partnership with local providers and businesss as part of a national iniativate to meet regional skills needs. Whether you’re unemployed, self-employed or looking to upskill yourself or your team, Berkshire Skills Bootcamps can help you on the next step of your journey.
Careers Hub
Berkshire Careers Hub, part of the Careers and Enterprise Company, delivers fully-funded careers support to educational institutions across Berkshire, empowering young people to secure their best next steps.
The Careers Hub team facilitates real-world experiences, employer engagement, and help to shape tailored careers programmes that help young people understand their options and take confident steps forward.
We work closely with Employers and Volunteers to provide coordinated access to future talent while helping shape the careers education that prepares tomorrow’s workforce.
Join Our Network
Free support for your business – whatever its size, sector, or stage. Get free and instant access to expert advice, tailored resources, and powerful tools designed to boost your visibility and help your business thrive. Connect with a vibrant community of like-minded businesses, share opportunities, and grow your network while posting job vacancies directly to our thriving business network to raise your profile among potential partners and talent.
Take the next step to start unlocking your business's potential today – join now for free and help your business grow and move forward.
FAQ
Can’t find what you’re looking for?
Our expert teams can provide personalised assistance for any questions you might have. We’re committed to helping you find the answers you need.
Contact us at [email protected] and we will be happy to help.
Who is The Skills and Business Hub For?
We support a wide range of people — from entrepreneurs and SMEs to educators, jobseekers, and local authorities. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, we’re here to help you move forward.
How can I get support for my business?
You can access expert advice, resources, and events through our website. For free, unbiased confidential business support, contact our Berkshire Growth Hub.
What kind of training do you offer?
We are a managing authority for Skills Bootcamps funded by the Department for Education, designed to help individuals upskill quickly and meet employer demand. These are ideal for career changers, jobseekers, and businesses looking to develop their teams.
Can I promote my business through the hub?
Yes —members can feature their content, post events and vacancies, and appear in our searchable business directory. It’s a great way to raise your profile and connect with others across the local area.
How do I get started?
You can explore our services right here on the website. When you’re ready, it only takes a few minutes to create a profile and unlock the full benefits of being a subscriber.