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Businesses will be able to claim up to £3,000 for each new apprentice they hire under the age of 25, a Welsh Government minister has announced.

The funding will be available to businesses that employ an apprentice for at least 30 hours a week.

Businesses could also get £1,500 for each new apprentice under the age of 25 employed for less than 30 hours a week.

Meanwhile, businesses could be entitled to £2,000 for each new apprentice they take on over the age of 25 for 30 or more hours a week, and £1,000 for those working less than 30 hours a week.

Payments will be limited to ten apprentices per business.

The announcement is part of a £40m Welsh Government package to support businesses with the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit.

Making the announcement on Wednesday (November 11), Economy Minister Ken Skates said: “Coronavirus and the impending threat of the UK leaving the European Union without a deal have placed incredible pressures and challenges on our economy, our companies and the livelihoods of our people.

“Apprentices make a huge contribution to our employers and give people a crucial opportunity to learn new skills, gain valuable experience and enhance their knowledge.

“Our incentives will be important in helping Welsh businesses give an apprentice an opportunity to shine.”

Mr Skates also announced the launch of the Apprenticeship Vacancy Service, which aims to make it easier for people to get information on apprenticeship opportunities available to them.