New initiative aims to GROW Glasgow’s talent

A workforce initiative is helping extend support for young people seeking employment opportunities in Glasgow.

Glasgow Regional Opportunities for Work (GROW) has been launched after receiving £1 million from JPMorganChase, enabling one of Scotland’s largest regional employability programmes to begin work across the Glasgow City Region. 

Delivered by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce in partnership with DYW Glasgow, DYW LED and DYW West, the programme will provide more than 40,000 hours of work experience and support over 700 young people.

The initiative will connect with around 250 employers across key sectors including digital technology, renewable energy, housing, finance, hospitality, creative industries and health. 

Designed as a business-led and regionally tailored programme, GROW aims to strengthen career readiness by giving young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds meaningful exposure to employers and real-world workplaces.

Alison McRae, senior director at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and co-chair of Glasgow’s Employment and Skills Board, said: “This is a defining moment for Glasgow City region’s future workforce and a great example of devolved regional skills funding in action.

“GROW will specifically target our hardest to reach communities, delivering a two-year programme with 13 points of engagement to inspire, prepare and connect young people with business opportunities.

“It is a hugely ambitious initiative that exemplifies Glasgow’s forward-thinking approach and unwavering commitment to building a capable, driven and inclusive workforce.”

JPMorganChase’s support forms part of its wider £40 million UK commitment to inclusive economic growth. 

The bank has previously partnered with the Careers & Enterprise Company in England to help young people build employability skills and make informed decisions about their futures.

Gillian McLennan, managing director leading capital management technology, JPMorganChase UK, added: “We are investing in skills and training to help young people access greater career opportunities, because we think engaged labour force participation is a critical element of the strong economy that benefits Scottish businesses.

“Our continued investments will support the UK’s increased focus on boosting skills and pathways to quality careers.”

GROW also builds on recommendations from an OECD report examining skills needs in the Glasgow City Region. 

By improving access to work experience and addressing gaps identified in the study, the programme aims to help more young people prepare for long-term employment and progression.

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