According to "Lack of time, money derail small biz training plans" at ITWorldCanada small business owners stated that training is important but a pain.

Thirty-six per cent of entrepreneurs polled by the survey - sponsored by Mississauga, Ont.-based Microsoft Canada Co. - said shortage of funds is a major obstacle to providing training. Another 33 per cent blamed lack of time.

In the article a Microsoft executive stated that small businesses spent $900 per year per employee on training. How much do you spend?

Apparently the Ipsos-Reid poll focused on technology and skills training. Depending on what the survey defined as 'skills training' there is usually a direct payback in increased confidence, productivity, and profitability as employees skills grow.

What has been your experience? What training do you do? Is it profitable? If not, why not?