We are pleased to announce that applications have reopened for the UKFT Textile Technician Fund, providing vital financial support for UK textile manufacturers to invest in in-depth training for young textile technicians. This initiative helps businesses cover 50% of training costs for technicians under the age of 35, reflecting continued industry commitment to bridging skills gaps and strengthening capability across the sector.

Highly skilled textile technicians with expertise in areas such as loom setup, machine programming, dyeing processes and advanced equipment operation are essential for maintaining productivity and quality as technology evolves. These skills often must be developed through specialised training programmes offered by machinery manufacturers or specialist institutions. Without funding support, such training can be prohibitively expensive for many UK businesses.

By subsidising training costs, the Textile Technician Fund helps companies:

• Extend technical capability and operational flexibility
• Increase competitiveness through advanced machinery proficiency
• Retain and develop young talent within the UK supply chain

Case studies from across the industry demonstrate the difference this funding makes:

• Wilkie supported young technicians to complete specialist loom training in Italy, enabling them to work more independently and efficiently.
• At John Smedley, support for training on advanced Shima Seiki programming expanded internal digital capability.
• Lochcarron of Scotland funded boilerhouse operations training for a young dyer, helping build depth in critical mill functions.
• Technicians at Bill Baber Knitwear completed software training that improved production performance.

These are just a few of the many examples where funding has enabled young people to undertake technical training that may otherwise have been out of reach.

The fund is available thanks to the generous support of The Worshipful Company of Weavers and CapitB.

The fund remains open to UK businesses applying to train young textile technicians. We encourage companies to consider how targeted training for early-career staff can support immediate operational needs and contribute to long-term resilience. As technology continues to shape manufacturing, skills investment is a strategic priority for organisations looking to maintain capability and adapt to future demand.

For more details on eligibility and how to apply, visit the UKFT Textile Technician Fund page or contact Katie.robinson@ukft.org to start your application.

Young Textile Technician Fund