Ufi VocTech Trust

Ufi VocTech Trust, founded in 1998 as a UK-wide independent grant funder and venture investor, originated from the government's 'University for Industry' vision and now focuses solely on harnessing digital technology to transform adult vocational learning. Its mission is to unlock potential for adults aged 16+ by addressing barriers to skills development, prioritizing underserved groups like neurodiverse learners, disadvantaged communities, and underrepresented sectors. Guided by values of courage, inclusivity, and risk-embracing innovation, Ufi champions scalable, sustainable VocTech solutions for real-world challenges, including green skills for net-zero, sector-specific training (e.g., manufacturing, EV maintenance), and AI-driven employability tools, fostering equity, access, and economic advancement through expert governance and strategic networks.

The Trust funds innovative digital projects via structured programmes like VocTech Activate (early-stage), Seed (pilots), Challenge (sector barriers), and Ignite (nascent ideas), plus Ventures investments to accelerate startups. It supports charities, CICs, learning providers, and not-for-profits of all sizes—UK-registered and based—with no income thresholds, welcoming grassroots to larger entities and even individuals who incorporate, as long as they target UK adults and demonstrate learner connections.

Grants typically range £30,000–£60,000 for 3–12-month projects (Ventures up to £250,000), covering development and pilots but excluding overheads, capital, core/unrestricted funding. Applications are unsolicited via two-stage online MyUfi portal (EOI then full details), with fixed rounds—next VocTech Activate Stage 1 closes 3 February 2026; process spans 3–4 months with panel review and board decisions. Ufi excludes child/academic education, pure research, non-skills mental health, entrepreneurship without UK benefit, or non-digital initiatives, distinguishing itself through VocTech specialization, patient impact focus, and cross-sector mobilization for inclusive innovation.