Māori Development Minister Willie Jackson says Government will invest $25 million into the Cadetships programme, delivered by Te Puni Kōkiri.
He says providing New Zealand businesses with the skilled workers they need is an essential component to a secure economy.
The programme supports employers to develop the skills of Māori staff, with over 1,000 cadetships funded each year.
Mr Jackson says almost all cadets are retained in employment after their programme ends, with many moving into leadership roles and better paid positions.
