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Grad Recharge is a ground-breaking new initiative designed to help unemployed STEM graduates launch successful careers in Manchester’s thriving digital and tech sector.
The programme provides the skills, confidence and connections needed to access high-growth roles, opening doors to exciting opportunities in one of the UK’s fastest-growing industries.
Applications are now open for the first cohort starting in September, and there are also opportunities available for businesses to support the programme.
Delivered by Manchester Digital in
partnership with Pathways CIC, and
commissioned by Manchester
City Council, Grad Recharge is
fully funded by the UK Government.
Graduates
If you're a STEM graduate based in Manchester who is out-of-work and feeling stuck, anxious or uncertain about what comes next – Grad Recharge could be for you.
Employers & Partners
If your business wants to support the next generation of digital talent by offering mentoring, insight days or short placements, we want to hear from you.
For Participants - Your Journey with Grad Recharge
Your Journey Starts Here
This is a confidential programme, supported by a network of industry leaders, designed to give you the skills and confidence to succeed. We’re here to help you turn your degree into a career.
Step 1: Getting Started
Referral & Screening: We accept people who are referred in or self-refer. We’ll guide you through an eligibility and readiness screening process.
Mental Health & Well-being: We carry out a baseline mental health and well-being assessment to ensure you have the right support in place. If you meet a certain threshold, we'll refer you to Pathways cic for specialised support.
Support Pathways: If the programme isn't the right fit for you right now, we’ll signpost you to other suitable resources. If you are eligible, you will be accepted onto Grad Recharge. Any interventions and sessions will form part of your personal progression action plan.
Step 2: On Programme
Our programme is structured to be flexible, averaging up to three days a week of structured sessions, plus up to one day of self-directed study.
Masterclass Training Sessions: Delivered in person with our industry partners, these cover in-demand skills:
- GenAI (2 days)
- Data Analytics (2 days)
- Inclusive Design Thinking (2 days)
- Content Creation & Digital Marketing (2 days)
- Canva Skills & Tools (1 day, online)
Employment Readiness Workshops: These are delivered by Manchester Digital and our industry partners, with sessions on:
- Insights into tech pathways and understanding the digital and tech sectors (half to one day).
- Employability and job readiness (CVs, mock interviews, job search advice - 1 day).
- Core professional skills (e.g., communication, collaboration, adaptability - 2-hour sessions).
Progression Coaching with The Life Project: You will take part in three half-day group coaching sessions per cohort.
- Session 1: Focus on your strengths, confidence-building, and goal-setting for the programme and beyond.
- Session 2: A mid-point check-in on your goals, with content shaped by the cohort's needs.
- Session 3: Reflect on your progress and look ahead to your future goals.
- Note: One-to-one coaching sessions are available on a case-by-case basis.
Employment Enrichment Activities: Curated and coordinated by Manchester Digital, these may include:
- Industry insight days & workplace visits.
- Curiosity camps.
- Short-term work placements or internships.
Step 3: Progression Support
Job Brokerage: We offer directed support and brokerage of employment opportunities, including supported job applications.
Skill Building: Receive advice on volunteering or building a professional portfolio.
Talent Day: Gain special fast-track access to our Talent Day employer showcase in February, opening one hour before the general public.
Ongoing Support: Receive two months of "keep-in-touch" support with monthly check-ins after the programme ends, with a re-referral pathway if needed.
For Employers & Partners - Get Involved
Join Our Mission: Partner with Grad Recharge
This is a confidential programme. We are working with a wide range of partners to deliver a genuinely impactful and innovative programme.
We are testing a new approach that prioritises community-based provision, showing that a bespoke, person-centred approach is the key to creating sustainable economic activity.
Why Partner with Us?
Access to Top Talent: Engage with our cohorts of qualified, work-ready graduates.
Contribute to Innovation: Help us shape a new model of employment support that we can present to the DWP.
Brand Exposure: Showcase your company at our exclusive Talent Day employer showcase and other industry events.
Recruitment Pool: Gain fast-track access to our apprenticeship recruitment pool.
Our Valued Partners
Delivery Partners
Help shape the future of work
If you would like to find out how your business can support the next generation of digital talent, get in touch now!