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Youth Employment and Skills Strategy: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Employers can access wage subsidies to support hiring and training youth facing barriers to employment.

This strategy provides financial support to help employers hire and train young people.

Who it's for

This program is intended for employers who are looking to bring young people into the workforce. To qualify, the individuals being hired must fall within the age range of 15 to 30. The strategy focuses on supporting youth who may be facing specific barriers that make entering the job market more difficult.

What you get

The primary benefit of this strategy is access to wage subsidies. These subsidies are designed to help offset the costs associated with hiring and training youth. By providing this financial assistance, the program aims to make it easier for businesses to offer opportunities to young people who might otherwise struggle to find stable employment.

What it costs you

There is no mention of an application fee, but participating in the program requires a commitment of time. Employers must be prepared to handle administrative tasks, specifically the requirement to provide reporting. You will need to provide updates and documentation regarding the youth's development while they are under your employment to ensure the program's goals are being met.

The catch to know

It is important to understand that this funding is not a permanent or ongoing source of income for your business. The support is project-based, meaning it is tied to specific initiatives rather than being a permanent subsidy for every employee. Furthermore, funding is often tied to specific intake periods, so you must act when these windows of opportunity are open.

How to apply

  1. Visit the official government website to check for current funding availability.
  2. Confirm that the youth you intend to hire meets the age requirements and any other specific criteria.
  3. Prepare your documentation regarding your employment project and how it supports youth development.
  4. Complete the application process through the official portal.

https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/youth-employment-skills-strategy.html