The Scottish government claimed that over 30,000 people in the country might benefit from the increased work and training opportunities with 73 initiatives to receive backing.
It said that the funding will help young people and adults that may face additional obstacles to the job market, such as individuals with physical or learning disabilities and young leaving care.
Education secretary Michael Russell admitted that while Scotland has emerged from the recession and is better than the UK average for economic inactivity, the population still face challenges.
He added that it was “encouraging” to see projects aimed at young people getting into the jobs market and wanted to build on the extra university and college places available along with growing numbers of apprenticeships.
Scottish Enterprise recently awarded £7 million in grants to small firms who exported products from within its borders.
By Cameron Thomson
