BFDT Celebrates Second Year of Education and Training Grant Programme

The British Footwear Development Trust (BFDT) is excited to announce the continuation of the grant programme, designed to support individuals and businesses to reach their full potential within the dynamic UK footwear landscape.

The British Footwear Development Trust, a recognised charity, is committed to supporting the ongoing development and success of the UK footwear industry. BFDT’s aim is to enhance skillsets, ignite creativity, and fuel growth across the sector.

This programme is open to all those in the UK footwear industry, regardless of their roles.

The BFDT believes in nurturing the talent and skills that drive the UK footwear industry forward. The continuation of the grant initiatives is a testament to this commitment.

Helen Errington
Trustee at the BFDT

The BFDT’s education and training grant was invaluable for the footwear Product Development team at Fairfax and Favor to support continuous professional development plans. The grant enabled both junior and established personnel to undertake a variety of BFA courses to refresh current skills, meet like-minded professionals, embrace the latest innovations, and strengthen industry knowledge. 

Sara Driscoll
Product Development Manager, Footwear at Fairfax & Favor and 2023 Grant Recipient

The grant programme, targeting both individuals and companies, are as follows:

Individual Grants: Ideal for individuals interested in developing their skills and knowledge in the footwear sector. These grants cover a broad range of areas, from formal training to hands-on practical experience, benefitting everyone from the factory through design to the retail floor and everyone in between.

Company Grants: Focused on businesses, these grants provide opportunities for companies to offer training to their employees, aiming to uplift the overall proficiency and innovation within the British footwear industry.

Applications will open on 2nd September 2024 and close at midnight on 30th September 2024. As part of BFDT’s commitment to accessibility, support will be provided for applicants with disabilities or long-term health conditions.

“We are eager to see the positive impacts these grants will have on our industry and the talented individuals working within it,” added Helen Errington.

Join the BFDT in this exciting endeavour to transform the future of the UK footwear industry. For more information about the BFDT grant programmes, including eligibility and application details, please visit https://britishfootwearassociation.co.uk/BFDT or send an email to info@bfdt.co.uk.

About the British Footwear Development Trust

The British Footwear Development Trust (BFDT) is a registered charity in England and Wales (Reg No 1197009), dedicated to supporting individuals and companies in the UK footwear industry. If you’re interested in supporting the footwear industry, the trust welcomes donations of all sizes. For more details or to make a contribution, please email us at info@bfdt.co.uk.