Ufi VocTech Trust

Ufi VocTech Trust funds projects that use technology to address real-world problems in UK adult vocational learning. They support early-stage projects through programmes like VocTech Activate, which develops and tests initial ideas, and the VocTech Challenge Impact Network, which grants a cohort of projects tackling specific challenges in adult skills provision. Their focus is on scalable solutions that can catalyse wider systemic change in the sector. They fund project delivery, feasibility studies, and equipment, but exclude research and core costs. Work must take place across the UK.

Registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations, community interest companies, and social enterprises can apply. Individuals may also apply for some programmes. Beneficiaries include the general public, young people, and unemployed adults, but children are excluded. Organisations must target UK adults and demonstrate a connection to learners. Schools are excluded from some programmes.

Ufi does not fund research, core costs, or work with children. They exclude new learning management systems, ideas that duplicate or increase complexity in the skills landscape, speculative technologies developed in isolation of user groups, and ideas with no potential for scale. They also exclude generic coaching or motivational tools, generic mental health or well-being support, enterprise skills, skills above Level 3, training places for individuals, degrees, standard content projects where offline learning is simply put online, course or curriculum development alone, generic employability skills, basic digital skills, and routine business development without public benefit.

Ufi VocTech Trust provides grants for projects of between three and 12 months duration. They fund early-stage projects and cohorts of initiatives. Match funding is required for some programmes. They welcome unsolicited applications.