Register your interest now with s.heywood@chamberelancs.co.uk or call on 01254 356454.

Hot on the heels of the incredible success of the Skills Bootcamp in International Trade, the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce is awaiting news to see if we have been awarded additional funding to deliver more Skills Bootcamp in International Trade in Summer 2026.

This unique funding has previously been made available to provide training and development for Lancashire employee’s International Trade skills. The Skills Bootcamp in International Trade offers 10 flexible courses over 16 weeks, giving people the opportunity to build up Import and Export skills. Many of Lancashire’s leading Employers and Learners have transformed their International Trade capability through this top rated programme.

Don’t miss your chance to gain the skills that open new markets and increase competitiveness.

Delegates from our recent cohorts gave the following reviews of the Skills Bootcamp, illustrating the depth of information available:

“In 2025 I embarked upon the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce Skills Bootcamp for Importing and Exporting Procedures.

Having not undertaken any work of this nature before I was slightly apprehensive. I need not have been.

Each topic was delivered and explained with expertise abound and every delegate was treated to the same level of professionalism and guidance regardless of their level of understanding.

Each class comprised of raw knowledge coupled with fun exercises to put what we have learned into practice with actual examples. This helped to take the theory into the real world.

The Skills Bootcamp has enabled me to understand the importing process and to know why things happen.

I would be delighted to offer my experience as an example of why anybody looking to improve their knowledge in these important areas should look to complete this bootcamp.

Thanks guys.”

– Ben Parry, Accounts Assistant for Adpak Machinery Systems, Nelson

“I had been looking for a comprehensive course which would develop skills in all aspects of international trade, particularly the movement of goods. The number of courses suitable for role such as mine is incredibly limited and otherwise would require attendance of several separate courses which many SME’s do not have the budget to do. The depth of information taught on the bootcamp is like no other I have seen available, and the funding provided meant it was accessible to me.

“I found the bootcamp very positive – my understanding of the topics covered has increased significantly. The information was presented expertly, and each session allowed for open and collaborative discussion. I found the environment to be engaging which allowed me to take in the information easily.

“I would recommend anyone who has a role involved with import and export to enrol in the bootcamp. The knowledge I have gained while enrolled on the bootcamp has developed my skills significantly. I find myself using these skills and knowledge daily in my role”.

– Aaron Heaton, Freight Coordinator for Slingco Ltd, Rawtenstall.

Download the 10 Import and Export Courses HERE.

If the East Lancashire Chamber are successful, this training programme valued at £3000 per learner will become available from as little as £300 per learner. Therefore, we are inviting Lancashire companies focussed on turbocharging their workforce in 2026 to register your interest NOW to not miss out on this highlight-acclaimed, heavily subsidised programme.

Stef Heywood, International Business Manager, commented:

“Subject to confirmation of UK Government funding, the Lancashire Skills Bootcamp in International Trade is expected to deliver significant benefits for employers. If funding is secured, the programme will help your business to:

• Develop a loyal and talented workforce with the import and export skills you need quickly.

• Futureproof your business in a rapidly changing labour market.

• Improve productivity – learners gain new international trade skills, fresh ideas and a new perspective.

“Lancashire businesses consistently show that once the door opens to overseas trade, the opportunities for growth are endless. Put simply, businesses that embrace international trade grow stronger and flourish. Demand for the Lancashire Skills Bootcamp in International Trade is expected to be high, so we encourage businesses to register interest early – this will be an invaluable resource for the region’s global business community.”

The Lancashire Skills Bootcamp in International Trade will only be available to Lancashire residents or Lancashire based businesses.

Register your interest with Stef Heywood at s.heywood@chamberelancs.co.uk or call on 01254 356454.

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