Maikai has announced a new strategic partnership with Sported to deliver fully funded workforce training designed to strengthen the capacity and impact of community sport organisations across the UK. Rollout of training opportunities begins this month, with Sported network organisations able to access support across multiple regions and delivery formats.

More than 3,000 community sport organisations in Sported’s network will gain access to structured training and workforce development in key areas including fundraising, artificial intelligence, youth work, and business and management, all identified as critical to improving long-term community impact.

The programme follows a comprehensive skills diagnostic conducted by Maikai across Sported’s membership. The findings revealed significant demand for professional development support to help grassroots organisations expand their reach and impact.

The programme is funded by Compass Group UK & Ireland, the UK's largest food and support services company, through its Growth and Skills Levy allocation as part of the company’s long-term commitment to creating social value through skills development and employability.

“Community sport organisations play a vital role in supporting young people and strengthening local communities. Through our partnership with Sported, we’re ensuring these organisations have access to the skills and training they need to grow their impact. Unlocking unused Growth and Skills Levy funding removes the financial barriers to people development within this sector." 

Richard Cotton, Co-Founder, Maikai

“Our network groups are passionate about delivering impact through sport. This partnership with Maikai allows us to provide tailored, fully funded training that will help them to expand the support they provide to young people and the communities in which they live.”

Sarah Kaye, CEO, Sported

“At Compass, we believe businesses have a responsibility to create opportunities that extend beyond the workforce and into the communities they serve. This training programme provides community sports organisations with access to training that will help them to continue their great work, harnessing sport’s unique ability to inspire young people and create supportive environments where individuals can thrive. We are delighted to be able to allocate some of our Growth and Skills Levy to this great initiative.”

Jonathan Foot, Director of Skills and Early Careers, Compass Group UK & Ireland