West London Chambers of Commerce is encouraging businesses across Ealing and west London to take advantage of a new Government scheme offering employers up to £2,000 to recruit a young apprentice.
From 1 October 2026, eligible businesses which do not pay the apprenticeship levy can receive the incentive when recruiting a new apprentice aged between 16 and 24.
Training and assessment costs for eligible apprentices in the same age group will also be fully funded.
The Chamber, which represents businesses across Ealing, Hounslow and Hammersmith & Fulham, is urging smaller firms in particular to consider taking on apprentices.
Alan Rides, chief executive of West London Chambers of Commerce, said: “For an SME, taking on a young person is an investment, so financial support can make a genuine difference.”
Sam Liu, founder of Chamber member TechStart, said: “At TechStart, we see how quickly young people grow in confidence and capability when they are given meaningful experience and the chance to develop real workplace skills.”
To qualify, apprentices must start from 1 October 2026 and must not have worked for the employer for more than 90 days beforehand.
Apprenticeships and youth employment will also be discussed at the Ealing Festival of Business, which takes place at Ealing’s University of West London on 15 October 2026.
