Thousands of pounds in government support are available for employers – here’s what you need to know.
If you’re looking to grow your business, develop future talent, and reduce recruitment costs, there has never been a better time to invest in apprenticeships.
From 1 August 2026 and 1 October 2026, a range of new government incentives will make hiring apprentices under the age of 25 even more affordable for non-levy paying employers.
At iPET Network, we’re here to help employers navigate these changes and make the most of the funding available.
If you’re a non-levy paying employer recruiting an apprentice under the age of 25, you could benefit from the following support.
From 1 October 2026, eligible employers can receive a £2,000 hiring payment when taking on a new employee aged under 25 who starts an apprenticeship.
This incentive is designed to encourage businesses to invest in young talent while reducing the upfront costs of recruitment.
You may also receive an additional £1,000 payment if your apprentice is:
This extra support recognises the importance of creating opportunities for young people who may need additional help entering the workplace.
If you recruit a Foundation Apprentice, your business could receive a £2,000 incentive for each eligible apprentice recruited.
Foundation Apprenticeships provide an excellent route for developing new talent while helping young people gain valuable workplace experience.
Businesses may also be eligible for a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant when recruiting eligible young people aged 18 to 24 who have been claiming Universal Credit for six months or more.
This funding can significantly reduce recruitment costs while helping someone take the next step into sustainable employment.
From 1 August 2026, apprenticeship training for apprentices aged under 25 is fully funded for non-levy paying employers.
This means employers can access high-quality training with no training contribution, making apprenticeships one of the most cost-effective ways to build a skilled workforce.
Employers also continue to benefit from no employer National Insurance contributions on eligible earnings for apprentices under the age of 25.
This ongoing saving helps reduce employment costs throughout the apprenticeship.
Eligible apprentices who are care leavers can receive a £3,000 bursary, providing additional financial support to help them succeed throughout their apprenticeship journey.
While this funding is paid directly to the apprentice, it can help improve learner wellbeing and retention.
Beyond the financial incentives, apprenticeships offer long-term benefits for employers.
By recruiting an apprentice, you can:
Whether you’re recruiting your first apprentice or expanding your team, apprenticeships provide a practical and cost-effective way to invest in your business’s future.
With generous government incentives now available and apprenticeship training fully funded for eligible employers, there has never been a better opportunity to recruit an apprentice under 25.
If you’d like to find out how your business could benefit, contact iPET Network today our team is ready to help with any questions you may have.
Please complete the fields within the form before submitting your interest
