A scheme helping businesses grow through apprenticeships is being extended until March 2028.
The Building Futures project, which has already supported 97 apprenticeship starts in just two years, operates in South Norfolk and Broadland and is delivered by Apprenticeships Norfolk.
Originally funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the scheme will now be jointly funded by Broadland District Council and South Norfolk Council until March 2028.
Lisa Overton-Neal, South Norfolk Council's cabinet member for planning and economic growth, said: "Apprentices can bring enormous value to businesses by increasing productivity, addressing skills shortages and developing expertise in specialist roles that can be difficult to recruit for.
"Building Futures gives local employers the support they need to invest in new talent while creating exciting opportunities for people looking to start or develop their careers."
The scheme offers practical and financial support to employers, helping them take on new apprentices or upskill existing staff.
Chris Conroy, managing director of Rackheath-based Vincents Electrical Ltd, said the scheme had been a clear benefit.
He said: "The apprenticeship has absolutely increased the apprentice’s productivity.
"He is now out there building and making stuff, all of which he does productively and to a high skill level.
"This means we can sell and deliver more work, which otherwise we might have had to put out to external sub-contractors."
Most apprenticeships supported through the scheme - 92pc - are at Level 2 or 3, with 69pc of apprentices aged 16 to 19.
Martin Booth, Broadland District Council's cabinet member for economic development, said: "Apprenticeships offer a fantastic route into employment, helping people gain practical skills, build confidence and earn while they learn.
"Through Building Futures, we hope to encourage more businesses to discover the benefits apprentices can bring and to support the next generation of skilled workers who will help our local economy thrive."
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