Today when SMEs face problems related to start up, innovation and growth, they find help in a proactive ecosystem of intermediary organizations: Yet the vast majority of these organizations do not currently provide guidance to SMEs on the subject of apprenticeships. RAISE seeks to address this situation by building the capacity of intermediary bodies to develop and operate support structures which will facilitate SMEs to become apprentice employers. To do this we will: 1. Establish 6 Regional Apprenticeship Alliances involving 80+ intermediaries and wider stakeholders, including VET providers.2. Produce and disseminate information resources, a teaching course, and practical tools which make the “business case” for SMEs to become involved in apprenticeships and provide step by step guides.The unique structure of RAISE enables the partnership to leverage access to intermediary organizations and SMEs. As a result of RAISE, 80+ intermediary organizations will • improve their knowledge relating to the “business case” for SME involvement • gain information on potential sectors where apprenticeships can be developed in their particular region• be able to quickly incorporate this new knowledge and transmit knowledge and skills to embark on apprenticeships for SME constituents and clients • improve their staff expertise and overall organizational performance in this increasingly important area of public policy.• build the personal contacts with VET providers and other stakeholders required to develop new apprenticeship opportunities for SMEs • have a larger voice in helping shape apprenticeship policyIn addition, more than 10,000 SMEs will be encouraged to take steps towards employing apprentices. They can be expected to: • complete an assessment/self evaluation to understand benefits to their own organization; • understand the concrete steps required to become an apprentice employer;• gain the skills required to manage the apprentice process.