There are two sides to our skills development scheme: we run regular group workshops on practical skills that will help you grow your business – this includes business planning, marketing, finance and more. When you sign up to be a Cultivator client, we will ask about any skills gaps you may have, and we will keep you informed when relevant workshops become available. Once you are a Cultivator client, you can keep your Creative Business Advisor informed about any new skills development needs.

You can also apply to our individual Skills Development Grant of up to £1000 to develop your creative or business skills, and you will find out more about this below.

We can support skills development opportunities by awarding up to £1000 + expenses. Due to some restrictions from our funders, we can only support you in accessing courses and training provision that is delivered in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly.

The content of your skills development course can be anything from a course provided by an established organisation, to tailored one-to-one sessions with a specialist. In Phase 1, clients applied to develop creative skills – such as working with ceramics, as well as business skills – such as project management and partnership working courses.

Applying for a Skills Development Grant is a competitive process. Even if you are eligible to apply and your advisor has given you their support, there’s no guarantee of success. However, working closely with your Cultivator advisor on your application will strengthen your case.

Although the Skills Development Grant is open to all our clients, the availability is limited. It is important to speak to your Creative Business Advisor to identify if it’s the most suitable way forward for you and if it is the right time.

The highest financial value of a Skills Development Grant is £1,000. We can also cover your expenses such as travel and childcare within reason. However, we won’t be able to cover any costs incurred by your training provider. They will need to factor in any expenses in the initial quote for their services.

Cultivator can pay up to 90% of the cost of the skills development opportunity. For example, if you are applying to go on a course costing £500 then Cultivator can pay up to £450 towards this cost.

Applications to the Skills Development Fund will be assessed on a rolling basis. We will try to get back to you within two weeks of you submitting your application.

If you are successful in your application, you will not be able to apply again. However, in exceptional circumstances, we have supported one application for two different courses/training opportunities – with the total cost of up to £1000. It is advised that you speak to your Creative Business Advisor before making the application.