A training scheme designed to help Scots to access digital technology jobs has now opened for applications.

People facing unemployment or those on lower incomes can apply to the Digital Start Fund for a grant between £1,000 and £8,000 to upskill in software development, cyber security, and other digital fields.  

The programme is now in its third year, with more than 350 people having accessed training since its launch in 2019. Training is funded by Scottish Government and administered by Skills Development Scotland (SDS).  

Finance secretary Kate Forbes said: “The adoption of digital technologies amongst Scotland’s employers has only accelerated since the Digital Start Fund was launched, underlining the need to help more people develop skills in this key area of our economy.  

“Not only will the fund contribute towards Scotland’s economic recovery, it will give more people a route to grasp the exciting opportunities the digital sector has to offer. 

“We are determined to support those on low incomes to improve their digital skills and technologies to ensure they can help drive forward our sustainable economic recovery.”  

Scots can learn more about the fund and the courses on offer on Digital World – Scotland’s dedicated website for exploring digital careers.  

Phil Ford, head of digital economy and financial services at SDS, said: “The Digital Start Fund is one of a broad range of measures SDS has undertaken with partners to help ensure Scotland’s digital sector can access the skills and talent it needs to continued growth and development.  

“It provides a learning pathway so that more people are able to access the training they need so they can take advantage of job opportunities in a range of areas where more skills are needed.”  

Training through the fund is available from a range of training providers who are now welcoming applications.  

Melinda Matthews-Clarkson, chief executive of CodeClan said: “At CodeClan the Digital Start Fund has been a huge success for students over the last two years, giving them the opportunity to study with us and enhance their careers, many of whom had not worked for long periods, this remains a vital grant for those who would not normally be able to retrain and provides a stepping stone into the tech industry.   

“The fund supports many sectors and skills, but we know that digital skills are key to a person’s success in the world we live in. CodeClan is a proud supporter of this initiative and welcomes all individuals to give technology a try.” 

To learn more about the Digital Start Fund, including how to apply, click here.