Grants and funding
At nesma, we believe everyone should have access to the education they need to grow.
Explore a range of funding for marketing, communications, or PR skills support below…and talk to us
Bursaries and financial assistance
The Educational Trust Bursary
The Educational Trust supports candidates training for careers in the media, marketing, advertising and creative industries in England. If eligible, you could receive a financially supportive bursary to help with your studies.
There are in fact a range of charitable trusts who provide support based on your needs and situation.
Reach out to us for contacts and more information!
CIM Benevolent Fund
If you are experiencing exceptional circumstances, the CIM Benevolent Fund may be able to support your learning through a bursary. Please email BenevolentFund@cim.co.uk to discuss this further.
nesma are always willing to arrange payment plans across the course of the programme, at no extra cost. Please mention this when you submit your application form.
CIPR Iprovision 75 Fund
The Iprovision 75, Fund, launched by CIPR, supports underrepresented and economically disadvantaged individuals who want to progress in PR. Iprovision is committed to fostering inclusivity and supporting people in their professional development within the PR industry. We understand that financial barriers can sometimes get in the way of accessing the learning people need to enter, return to or develop in the PR industry.
The Iprovision 75 Fund offers financial support to eligible candidates, which can help cover registration fees, study materials, and other related expenses, making professional development more accessible.
As an Accredited Teaching Centre, nesma is an approved training provider for this fund.
CIPR Benevolent Fund
In extreme circumstances, students can apply for a CIPR Bursary. Please email administrator@iprovision.org.uk to discuss this further.
nesma are always willing to arrange payment plans across the course of the programme, at no extra cost.
Please mention this when you submit your application form.
Government support programmes
Advanced Learner Loans (England)
nesma may be able to work with a partner to support your use of Advanced Learner Loans. Applications for the academic year start 1 August. Individuals aged 19+, studying approved Level 3 to Level 6 qualifications. This support is not means-test or credit checked, and the loan is paid directly to the provider.
Advanced Learner Loans will remain available until 2027. After this, they’ll be replaced by the new Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE).
Flexible payment options
We offer interest-free individual payment plans through nesma FLEX so so you can spread the cost of your studies across your course duration.
If you prefer you can also pay module by module or use third party credit solutions such as Klarna and PayPal pay in three via our learning management platform. There are no additional charges for these services.
Please email hello@nesma.co.uk for more information on our payment options and we can help you choose a solution that best fits with you.
Convince your boss to invest in your training
Dont be shy…80% of Vocational learners in work are sponsored!
If you’re currently employed, your employer may be able to fund your training through their Learning & Development (L&D) budget. We’ve created a letter to help you make the case:
Letter Template: Ask your employer to sponsor your learning
Subject Request for Training Support – nesma Qualification
Top 10 reasons why your boss should invest in you!
1. The industry moves fast;
I want to keep up.
A host of unique marketing and communications focussed learning opportunities to get you there faster, including micro-qualifications, dual awards, and short courses that accumulate to certifications and more.
2. I want to deliver better results.
Whether it’s higher engagement, better reach, stronger campaigns, or improved brand awareness—I know I can do more with the right training. This isn’t just about learning theory, it’s about driving real impact. Use a SkillsView®skills map to show the need!
3. We could save money!
There are skills—like SEO, paid ads, reporting, content strategy—that I could build up to reduce how much we rely on external agencies. That could free up budget for other areas.
Join our community to gain skills in demand and salary insights!
4. I want to learn from the best.
Institutions like CIM, CIPR, DMI, and others offer globally recognised training. These courses aren’t just credible—they’re built for people like me who want to learn fast and apply it straight away.
5. I’m thinking more strategically about my role.
I’m not just here to execute tasks!
I want to help shape smarter campaigns and long-term strategies. Training can help me connect the dots between what I do day to day and the bigger business goals. While your here – take a look at our leadership support!
6. It’s a win-win for both of us!
If I grow, the whole team benefits. I’ll be able to take on more responsibility, mentor others, and contribute more to our success. This is as much an investment in the team as it is in me. Better still nesma will match your investment – check out SkillsPartner®
7. It shows we’re a company that invests in its people.
People notice when a business supports its team’s development. It says a lot about our values and makes this a place people want to stay and grow. nesma will help you understand the broader marketing teams needs if you would like.
8. I want to feel more confident in what I do.
Whether I’m presenting a new idea, managing a campaign, or dealing with a tricky PR issue—I want to feel equipped and confident. The right training can help me level up and show up stronger. nesma also provide access to free resources and peer support. Lets us know more about your personal needs!
9. I’ve found options that are flexible and budget-friendly.
There are online and part-time courses that won’t interrupt my work—and I’ve done my homework to find one that offers great value for money.
10. I’m serious about growing in this role—and in this company.
This isn’t just about a certificate. It’s about being better at what I do, stepping up when needed, and becoming someone the team can count on. I’d really appreciate your support in making that happen. nesma help with skills planning, talent management, budgeting and more.
Perks for your boss
As well as being the right thing to do for your team and you, we offer a range of benefits for your boss personally:
As part of the matched investment we offer access to leadership masterclasses with high profile speakers. Your boss can access our skills insight and quartlerly skills reports.
They can join our specialist marketing leadership Skills forum and exchange ideas and insight on talent and team management.
They will also be a ble to access specialist leadership skills offers to help them stay on top.
nesmaFLEX – Learn Your Way
With nesmaFLEX, you can study individual modules from accredited qualifications without committing to the full course upfront.
This flexible model allows you to
Earn credits towards full qualifications
Build confidence at your own pace
Spread the cost of professional development
Test what works for your career before investing further
Once you’re ready, you can complete additional modules to earn your full qualification. Interested in a modular approach to learning?
