Businesses offered grant to support new apprentices
Published Wednesday 11 February 2026Harborough District Council has launched a new grant to help local businesses recruit and support apprenticeships.
The Apprenticeship Support Grant provides financial support to companies that hire apprentices, helping to create new jobs and develop skills within the local workforce.
The grant is designed to reduce the cost of taking on new staff while supporting businesses to invest in training and long-term growth.
About the grant
Eligible businesses can apply for £1,000 for each apprentice they employ (a maximum of two per business). There is no requirement for businesses to match this funding.
The grant can be used to support a range of costs, including:
- Apprentice wages
- Training costs
- Uniforms or safety equipment
- Software licences
- Mentoring and supervision support
Who can apply?
Businesses may be eligible for the grant if they:
- Are based in Harborough district
- Employ between 1 and 249 staff
- Have been trading for at least 12 months
- Plan to employ the apprentice for 30 hours per week or more
Cllr Jo Asher, Cabinet lead for Culture, Leisure, Economy and Tourism, said: "This grant is great news for our local businesses. Apprenticeships help reduce the cost of hiring new staff while giving people the opportunity to learn new skills and gain valuable work experience. I hope many small businesses across Harborough district will take advantage of this support.”
How to apply
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and applicants will normally receive a decision within two to four weeks.
Businesses can apply online at: www.grantapproval.co.uk
For more information, visit: www.investinharborough.com/appgrant
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