Free innovation course promises big wins for GM’s small businesses
A free, two-day innovation course for apprentices in Greater Manchester is now in its second year, giving small businesses the chance to boost productivity and encourage fresh ideas at no cost.
The Innovation Literacy Programme, funded by Innovate UK and GM Colleges, helps apprentices learn how to spot everyday problems, develop workable solutions, and present ideas with confidence.
The programme is open to apprentices from any sector, offering SMEs a practical way to build innovation capability without added pressure or cost.
Programme Lead Dave Murat said:
“SMEs tell us their apprentices often spot the small issues that slow things down, but aren’t always sure how to take them forward. This course changes that. It gives apprentices the confidence and structure to turn everyday observations into practical improvements that make a real difference.
Apprentices are full of ideas. When you give them the tools to shape those ideas, the impact on an organisation can be incredible.”
Working alongside existing apprenticeship training, it offers SMEs an easy way to support apprentices and make practical improvements in the workplace.
Coral Grainger, GM Colleges Innovation Project Director, explained:
“This initiative not only equips apprentices with knowledge and solutions that support their apprenticeship achievement, but also equips them to support growth within their employing businesses encouraging more innovative practices across the city region.”
The programme is available until 31 March 2026, and businesses are encouraged to register early to secure places for their apprentices.
You can view all public events on the Innovation Literacy Programme Events page.
Dates and locations available for booking are listed below:
• Oldham College - 28th & 29th January
• Oldham College - 17th & 28th February
• Bolton College - 20th/27th January
• Bolton College - 10th/19th February
• Hopwood Hall Middleton - 3rd/4th February
• Trafford College - Stretford Site - 11th Feb and 26th February
• Wigan and Leigh college - 9th and 16th February
To learn more about the programme, visit the Innovation Literacy Web-site.
For any questions, contact innovationliteracy@oldham.ac.uk