Solent Freeport joins forces with Solent Growth Partnership to launch new apprenticeship incentive programme

Solent Freeport has launched a new £50,000 Apprenticeship Incentive Programme in partnership with the Solent Growth Partnership, helping small and medium-sized businesses invest in future talent while creating new pathways into skilled employment for young people across the region.

Delivered through the Solent Business Growth Service, the programme provides financial incentives of up to £2,000 for eligible employers recruiting an apprentice for the first time, alongside tailored business support to help businesses successfully recruit, develop and retain new talent.

The initiative reflects Solent Freeport's commitment to helping businesses to build a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting the region's future growth ambitions, while ensuring local people can access the opportunities created through investment across the Solent.

The £50,000 fund will support:

·       10 Foundation Apprenticeships, with £2,000 available per apprenticeship

·       20 General Apprenticeship Standards, with £1,500 available per apprenticeship

Funding will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility and availability.

The programme focuses on four priority sectors that are central to the future growth of the Solent economy:

·       Business Services Engineering

·       Engineering and Manufacturing

·       Software and Data

·       Hardware, Network and Infrastructure

A key feature of the programme is its focus on supporting young people who were previously not in education, employment or training (NEET), helping them access high-quality career opportunities while addressing skills shortages faced by local employers.

Brian Johnson, Chair of Solent Freeport, said:

"Skills are fundamental to the long-term success of the Solent economy. Through this programme, we're helping businesses access the talent they need to grow while creating meaningful opportunities for young people to build rewarding careers.

"By investing in apprenticeships, we're supporting the development of a stronger, diverse workforce that can meet the needs of our priority sectors and help drive sustainable economic growth across the region."

In addition to financial support, participating businesses will receive guidance through the Solent Business Growth Service, including support with recruitment, onboarding and workforce development.

The programme forms part of Solent Freeport's wider commitment to supporting skills development, improving access to employment opportunities and helping businesses build the workforce required to drive innovation, productivity and growth.

Further information, including eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, and application guidance, is available through the Solent Business Growth Service.