Employers >> Funding for Employers

Government funding options

Support that helps you grow your team.

Funding programmes change over time, but there are several options that may help offset the cost of taking on an apprentice. The right support will depend on your apprentice’s circumstances and your business.

Option 1

Fees Free (for apprentices)

If your apprentice is a first-time tertiary learner, they may be eligible for Fees Free support.

This can cover the training component in their final year, reducing what you or your apprentice needs to pay.

Be a New Zealand citizen or resident
Have lived in New Zealand for three or more years
Not have previously enrolled in tertiary study at Level 3 or higher
Have an NSN (National Student Number)

How to check: your apprentice can confirm their eligibility at Fees Free.

Option 2

Apprenticeship Boost

Apprenticeship Boost provides financial support to employers with apprentices in their first two years of training.

This helps reduce wage costs while your apprentice gains the skills they need on the job.

Monthly payments for eligible apprentices
Funding available for first- and second-year apprentices
Simple application process through Work and Income
Helps reduce the upfront cost of training a new apprentice

EarnLearn support

We simplify funding so you don’t have to juggle forms, criteria, and fine print on your own.

From clear pricing to hands-on help with applications, our team sits beside you through the whole journey – not just at sign-up.

Transparent training fees

Our pricing is upfront and all-inclusive, so you know exactly what you’re investing in.

Our fees cover:

Training plans tailored to each apprentice
Assessment support and moderation
Study resources and learning tools
Apprentice pastoral support
Regular workplace visits and check-ins
Access to EarnLearn learning systems

We’ll outline the full cost structure upfront so you can plan with confidence.

Help accessing funding

We stay across funding changes and make it easy for you to tap into any support that’s available.

Our team will:

Flag any current subsidies or government schemes
Guide you through forms and documentation
Coordinate training and assessment schedules
Help minimise disruption to your day-to-day operations

You focus on your team and we’ll handle the paperwork.

Funding for Employers