
Canada Job Grant
Author: Casey Sharp & Carey Thurlow, Risio Dental Institute
Connect with Risio Institute via our Dental Business Directory
Supporting training and professional development is a key way to retain team members.
Training a team member to become a certified dental assistant, receptionist, office manager, treatment co-ordinator or certified modules for your dental hygienist, with a requirement that the person will work with you following their studies is beneficial for both parties.
In Canada, there are a number of government grants to help support small businesses with training costs. The Canada Job Grant is a crucial workforce development program that aims to enhance employability and address skills gaps across the country. Launched in 2014, this employer-driven initiative provides funding for training programs, empowering both employers and employees to bridge the gap between available jobs and the skills required to succeed in today’s competitive labor market. This article explores the impact of the Canada Job Grant in each province, highlighting how it has contributed to workforce development and economic growth. Each is province specific, so take a look below to see what is available for you.
Alberta: In Alberta, the Canada Job Grant has played a vital role in addressing the province’s labor market needs. The grant has enabled employers to invest in training programs to enhance the skills of their workforce. This has helped meet the demands of a diverse economy while promoting job creation and economic stability in the region.
Eligible employers are required to contribute a minimum of one-third of the total training costs for existing employees. Government contributes two-thirds of the cost to a maximum of $10,000 per trainee per fiscal year. If hiring and training an unemployed Albertan, up to 100% of training costs could be covered, up to $15,000 per trainee.
https://www.alberta.ca/canada-alberta-job-grant.aspx
British Columbia: In British Columbia, the Canada Job Grant has been instrumental in supporting a skilled workforce. By providing financial assistance to employers for employee training, the grant has facilitated the development of a competent workforce, enhancing productivity and driving economic growth in British Columbia. A skilled workforce is essential for strong, sustainable and balanced growth. Building an agile and resilient workforce—one with the right mix of skills to respond to the evolving demands of the labour market—provides B.C. enterprises with a strategic competitive advantage for productivity and innovation.
Employers can apply as often as they need and receive 80 per cent of the cost of training up to $10,000 per employee, with a maximum annual amount per employer of $300,000.
https://www.workbc.ca/find-loans-and-grants/industry-and-employers/bc-employer-training-grant
Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan has embraced the Canada Job Grant as a catalyst for its labor market development. The program has encouraged employers to invest in training, leading to a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of Saskatchewan’s economy.
Through the program, the employer contributes one-third of the training cost, while the federal and provincial governments contribute the remaining two-thirds.
Manitoba: The Canada Job Grant has played a critical role in Nova Manitoba’s workforce development initiatives. The grant has encouraged employers to invest in training programs that equip their employees with the necessary skills. This has bolstered labor market participation, reduced unemployment rates, and positioned Manitoba as a hub for innovation and economic prosperity.
Eligible employers can receive up to 75% of the direct training up to $10,000 per individual participant and to a maximum of $100,000 of total funding.
https://www.gov.mb.ca/jec/busdev/financial/cmjg/index.html
Ontario: The Canada Job Grant (COJG) has made significant contributions to Ontario’s workforce development strategy. The grant has supported employers in providing high-quality training to their employees. By addressing skills shortages and promoting job creation, the program has bolstered Ontario’s economic resilience and positioned the province as an attractive destination for investment.
Employers can get up to $10,000 in government support per person for training costs. In order to be eligible, the course has to be provided by an approved institution, and take 1 year or less. Funding must be approved PRIOR to the person taking the course, and the person must be employed following completion.
https://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/eopg/cojg/
Newfoundland and Labrador: In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Canada Job Grant has been pivotal in addressing the province’s unique labor market challenges. The grant has facilitated the development of a skilled workforce that can navigate specific demands. This has not only supported job creation but has also contributed to the sustainable growth of Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy.
The program provides up to a maximum of $10,000 per year towards training an existing employee and up to a maximum of $15,000 for training an unemployed participant. The employer contributes at least one-third to the cost of training, with the exception of an unemployed participant. The employer must have a job for all participants at the end of training.
https://www.gov.nl.ca/ipgs/employ-support/foremployers/canada-nl-job-grant/
New Brunswick, PEI and Nova Scotia – appears that the program is closed
Conclusion: The Canada Job Grant has proven to be an invaluable tool for workforce development in each province and can help dental clinics during a time where there is a shortage in support staff.
About the Authors:
Casey Sharp & Carey Thurlow, Co-Founders of Risio Institute. At Risio Institute for Digital Dental Education, students from anywhere in Canada can earn the required credentials for a career in dental assisting.
Connect with Risio Institute via our Dental Business Directory