The Government has introduced a range of financial incentives to help employers recruit and develop the next generation of skilled workers. Whether you’re looking to grow your team, future-proof your workforce or address skills shortages, apprenticeships provide excellent value.
Eligible employers may benefit from:
£2,000 Small and Medium-sized Employers (non-levy) Hiring Incentive (from 1 October 2026)
· Non-levy employers
· New employee aged 16–24
· Starts apprenticeship from 1 October 2026
· Employed within the previous 3 months
100% Government-Funded Training for Small and Medium-sized Employers (non-levy)
· From 1 August 2026
· Available for eligible SMEs recruiting apprentices aged 16–24
£1,000 Employer Incentive
· Apprentices aged 16–18
· Or 19–24 with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan or who have previously been in local authority care
Up to £2,000 Foundation Apprenticeship Incentive
· Apprentices aged 16–21
£3,000 Youth Jobs Grant
· For eligible young people aged 18–24 claiming Universal Credit
0% Employer National Insurance
· For eligible apprentices under 25
Interested in taking on an apprentice?
