HUNDREDS of apprenticeships could be created after a regeneration body received funding.

Tees Valley Combined Authority says it has secured devolved cash to deliver a grant scheme aimed at helping small businesses take on young workers.

Bosses say the drive has the potential to create up to 700 apprenticeships. They added the project, known as The Apprenticeship Grant for Employers 16-24 scheme, will provide finance up to £3,500 for companies to recruit people aged between 16 and 24-years-old.

However, the programme is only available to those working to approved apprenticeship frameworks and is designed for businesses that would otherwise not have been able to employ an apprentice.

Councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher, lead member for skills at Tees Valley Combined Authority, said the body will manage applications and process payments.

He added: “The devolving of the grant will create significant opportunities for our smaller employers.

“We can be more flexible with the features of a local scheme to make it available to as many businesses as possible.

“It will create more quality apprenticeships for young people and provide employment and learning opportunities.”

Councillor Akers-Belcher added the body was one of only five combined authorities to receive the financial support.