Free training for small business owners in France

The business skills courses are part of the government's Covid recovery plan. We look at what is on offer and who is eligible

Courses cover a range of subjects, from communications and advertising to digital strategy, and are open to all sectors

Owners of small businesses can brush up on their skills with up to three free training sessions.

Funded by the government’s Covid recovery plan, France Num courses run for three to 10 hours, and are created by industry experts.

They aim to help small business owners get to grips with digital technology or improve their existing skills to improve profitability.

Courses cover a range of subjects, from communications and advertising to digital strategy, and are open to all sectors.

Some even target specific industries, including catering and accommodation, craft manufacturing and accounting.

Read more: France sets its sights on full employment

Who can access the training?

To be eligible, your business must be based in France and have been in legal existence for at least two years.

It must have a turnover of more than €15,000 for the last financial year, and not have been declared in receivership.

Applicants need a laptop and internet access, and should not have already registered for three training sessions as part of the same programme.

Coaching is collective, with between six and 20 people in a group. It takes place either face to face, online or using a combination of the two.

Find a list of courses here.

Related articles

Explainer: who pays France’s CFE business tax and what exemptions?

Aim to boost apprenticeships key to France’s reindustrialisation

What is the net minimum wage in France and how many people earn this?