Employee Training Grants in Canada: Current Grants + Tips for Applying
Training is an essential component for business growth and competitiveness, ensuring employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to adapt to evolving industry demands. In Canada, business grants for training provide a vital funding source to help organizations reskill and upskill their workforce, fostering innovation, productivity, and economic growth. This guide explores the various types of training grants available, eligibility requirements, and strategies for applying successfully.
Key Takeaways
- Training grants provide non-repayable funding to help businesses develop their workforce by reskilling and upskilling employees.
- Funding is offered by federal and provincial governments, as well as non-profit organizations, to support workforce development and economic growth.
- Eligible businesses must typically be registered in Canada, present a detailed training plan, and demonstrate alignment with grant objectives.
- Funds can often be used for activities such as technical training, leadership development, and certification programs.
- Complementary funding options include loans, tax incentives, and employer partnership programs.
What is a Business Grant?
A business grant is a financial award typically provided by governments and non-profit organizations. Unlike loans, business grants do not need to be repaid. Business grants are designed to support and stimulate business growth, innovation, and development.
In Canada, business grants are often oriented towards certain activities, audiences, industries, or regions. Here’s a quick explanation of each:
- Activity Grants: These focus on specific business functions or stages, such as training, expansion, research and development, or sustainability initiatives. These grants are designed to support particular aspects of business growth or innovation.
- Audience Grants: Targeted at specific groups of entrepreneurs, such as women, youth, or newcomers, these grants provide financial support to underrepresented or disadvantaged groups in Canadian business.
- Industry Grants: Tailored to businesses operating in particular sectors like manufacturing, technology, or clean energy, these grants align with government or organizational priorities for economic development and innovation.
- Regional Grants: Designed for businesses in specific provinces, territories, or underserved areas, these grants aim to stimulate local economies, address regional challenges, or promote rural development.
Grants vs Loans for Employee Training
Business grants and loans are two common ways businesses secure funding for training, each with its advantages and drawbacks.
Business grants are non-repayable funds provided by government bodies or organizations. Grants for hiring allow businesses to invest in training without the financial burden of repayment. However, grants are highly competitive, may come with strict eligibility requirements, and involve detailed application processes.
Business loans, on the other hand, provide greater flexibility in fund usage and can often offer larger amounts than grants. They are beneficial for covering substantial training investments or continuous workforce development. Successfully repaying a loan can also help businesses build their creditworthiness. However, loans require repayment with interest, may strain cash flow, and carry financial risks if the business struggles to meet obligations.
| Aspect | Grants | Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Requires Repayment? | No | Yes, with interest |
| Financial Risk | Low | High due to repayment obligations |
| Eligibility Criteria | Specific to grant program; aligned with training objectives | Typically requires good credit and a strong business plan |
| Application Process | Competitive and detailed | Depends on financial institution |
| Flexibility | Restricted to specific purposes | Broader usage |
Grants are an excellent choice for businesses looking to minimize financial risk while focusing on workforce development. On the other hand, loans can provide greater flexibility for broader training-related expenses, though they come with repayment obligations.
Types of Grants for Employee Training
Business grants supporting training activities in Canada can be categorized into three main types: federal government grants, provincial government grants, and non-profit grants. Each type serves specific objectives and supports a variety of training initiatives.
Federal Government Grants for Training
Federal grants often aim to enhance the skills and productivity of the Canadian workforce. These grants typically:
Provincial Government Grants for Training
Provincial grants address the unique workforce development needs of individual provinces and territories. Objectives often include:
Non-Profit Business for Training
Non-profit organizations often offer training grants to address societal goals or specific industry challenges. These grants:
Eligibility Criteria for Employee Training Grants
Eligibility criteria for training business grants are tailored to ensure that funding is directed to initiatives with meaningful impact. Here are the key considerations that businesses must meet:
Canadian Business Registration and Operation:
Training Relevance and Objectives:
Comprehensive Training Plan:
Economic and Social Benefits:
Industry or Sector Alignment:
Matching Fund Requirements:
Compliance with Grant Guidelines:
Applying for Employee Training Grants: Top 5 Tips
Successfully applying for training business grants requires strategic planning and attention to detail. Here are the top tips to increase your chances of securing funding:
1. Conduct Thorough Research:
2. Prepare a Strong and Detailed Proposal:
3. Demonstrate Alignment with Grant Objectives:
4. Collaborate with Training Experts and Partners:
5. Submit a Polished and Complete Application:
Alternatives to Employee Training Grants
If training grants aren’t the right fit for your business, there are several alternative funding options to consider for workforce development:
Business Loans and Credit for Training
Government Subsidies and Tax Incentives
Employer Partnerships and Industry Collaborations
Private Investment and Crowdfunding
Grants for Employee Training – Current Grants Available
In the sections below you’ll find a sample of the federal and provincial grants currently available for training:
Federal Business Grants for Employee Training:
Up to a maximum of $4.5 million per project for projects up to four years in duration (total funding available for all Strategic Collaboration projects is $29 million over 4 years)
Grant
Description:
The Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) Program provides funding to organizations to deliver a range of activities that help youth (aged 15 to 30) overcome barriers to employment.
This Competitive-Solicited Intake process aims to provide funding to successful applicants whose projects are designed to expand capacity within the youth employment sector to address new and emerging systemic challenges.
Up to 60% of your total annual revenues, averaged over the last 3 completed years
Grant
Description:
Multi-year funding for support organizations that provide targeted resources for artistic development
Annual budget of $14.45 million, plus an additional $12 million annually until 2027 to support regional clean energy initiatives
Grant
Description:
The Strategic Partnerships Initiative (SPI) helps government departments work together to support Indigenous participation in economic development opportunities.
SPI initiatives span multiple years, benefit multiple communities, and support regional economic growth. Each initiative is led by a federal partner working with at least one other department.
Up to $5,000 per year
Grant
Description:
This program supports Indigenous individuals and groups, Indigenous-led arts organizations and arts/cultural sector development organizations that foster a vital and resilient Indigenous arts ecosystem.
Project funding for materials, and artistic or professional development
Up to $100,000 per application (maximum of $100,000 per year)
Grant
Description:
Funding for projects to encourage and support the ongoing growth, strengthening and development of the arts sector by artists, arts professionals, cultural connectors, groups and organizations
Sector Support, Innovation and Development supports activities previously funded under Supporting Artistic Practice: Sector Innovation and Development.
Between $1,000,000 and a maximum of $30,000,000 for a project spread over 24 months in the 2026 and 2027 calendar years
Grant
Description:
The Personal Support Worker Retirement Savings Innovation Program (PSWRSIP) will provide funding to eligible initial recipients that are able to provide retirement savings incentives through tax-assisted private savings vehicles to personal support workers (PSWs) without workplace retirement security coverage.
No specific amount specified
Grant
Description:
The Northern Food Businesses (NFB) stream is one of three streams under the Northern Isolated Community Initiatives (NICI) Fund.
The NFB stream will provide funding to Northern agriculture and food businesses and communities, to build a strong territorial food industry and help reduce food insecurity in the territories using practical approaches.
Up to 60% of total annual revenues, averaged over the last 3 years with budgets over $500,000; Up to 60% of total annual revenues, averaged over the last 3 year with budgets over $250,000; up to $100,000 per year for other organizations
Grant
Description:
Multi-year funding for not-for-profit and for-profit Indigenous organizations that explore innovative strategies for Indigenous creative and cultural expression
Up to 50% of eligible costs (up to 100% for Indigenous or not-for-profit organizations), from a minimum of $40,000 to a maximum of $5 million per proposal
Grant
Description:
The Industrial Facility track offers financial assistance for projects that enhance energy efficiency.
Eligible recipients are Canadian facilities engaged in energy-consuming processes that transform materials into new products.
Grants and contributions of up to a maximum of $90,000 per fiscal year; total assistance from the Export Development Stream and other levels of government cannot exceed 75% of the same eligible project-related costs
Grant
Description:
The Export Development Stream (EDS) of the Creative Export Canada (CEC) program offers funding in the form of grants and contributions for:
1. new and early-stage exporters to build capacity and expand into international markets
2. seasoned exporters to expand into new international markets and build business networks
$10,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Professional Development for Artists component of Explore and Create supports the career growth of Canadian artists and artistic groups by encouraging participation in a wide range of development opportunities. Grants fund activities that contribute to the professional advancement of Canadian artists working in all artistic disciplines.
$80,000 annually through the EDI to support projects that help develop capacity, expertise and partnerships
Grant
Description:
The initiative facilitates sustainable growth in official language minority communities (OLMCs) by fostering the development of new expertise through projects that encourage economic diversification, business development, innovation, and partnerships. These projects increase support for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in OLMCs.
Up to 100% of eligible expenses (total assistance from this subcomponent and other levels of government cannot exceed 100% of total project costs), disbursed as a grant or a contribution
Grant
Description:
The Cooperation with the Community Sector subcomponent supports engagement by community organizations and strengthens their ability to act while encouraging innovation and excellence.
AAFC contribution normally not exceeding $1 million per project, generally not more than $5 million over 5 years for each applicant; AAFC a maximum of 50% of eligible costs (up to 75% for high-priority or public-safety projects), as repayable and non-repayable contributions
Grant, Loan
Description:
The program will support the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector in identifying and advancing strategic opportunities that:
1. foster innovative ideas, practices, or market oriented approaches developed collaboratively with sector partners
2. strengthen sector wide competitiveness
3. deliver benefits across Canada
$5,000 for each eligible new first-year apprentice hired; $10,000 if the apprentice hired is from an equity-deserving group
Grant
Description:
The Apprenticeship Service supports employers to hire new first-year apprentices in 39 Red Seal trades.
It also helps first-year apprentices get the hands-on work experience they need for a career in the skilled trades.
Up to $5 million per project and $10 million per applicant over the program’s duration (2023 to 2028); AAFC a maximum of 50% of eligible costs (up to 70% for eligible not-for-profits with GHG reduction or carbon sequestration projects); total government funding cannot exceed 85% of total project funding
Grant, In-Kind Support
Description:
The AgriScience Program, under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), provides funding and support for pre-commercial applied science and research and development activities to find solutions to sector challenges and accelerate innovation in the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector.
Projects component — supports a single project or a smaller set of projects that would be less comprehensive than a Cluster.
AAFC contributes a maximum of 50% of eligible costs, normally not exceeding $50,000 per project; the total of all projects under this component cannot exceed $100,000
Grant
Description:
help small and medium-sized enterprises export products by supporting the adoption of assurance systems and tools to make verifiable claims in order to meet market requirements
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Component — supports businesses to adopt assurance systems and supporting tools to make verifiable claims to meet export market requirements or domestic markets for Indigenous Peoples
75% of eligible costs, to a maximum non-repayable contribution of $50,000
Grant
Description:
The Advanced Manufacturing Technology Assessments will assist manufacturers who are seeking innovative solutions to increase their efficiency, productivity and competitiveness.
Non-repayable contributions of up to 100% of costs for eligible activities, up to a maximum of $500,000 per recipient per year
Grant
Description:
Use our Access to Business Opportunities funding to support a regional or national initiative that will provide tools and support to foster Indigenous entrepreneurship.
This program does not provide funding for individual business startups, acquisitions, or expansions.
This funding offers non-repayable contributions.
Non-repayable contributions of up to 33% of eligible project costs (up to 25% for construction costs), to a maximum of $75 million per project or the funds available in the region of the project, whichever is lower
Grant
Description:
The Dairy Innovation and Investment Fund (DIIF) aims to help dairy processors in making investments to increase competitiveness over the long term and adapt to the new market realities.
The Fund provides non-repayable contributions to Canadian dairy processors to invest in innovative solutions to better manage the structural surplus of solids non-fat in Canada.
Provincial Business Grants for Employee Training:
Up to 50% of the direct training costs; the employer contributes the remaining 50%
Grant
Description:
Workplace Skills Training is a program developed for employers to train new or existing employees to develop their skills and align with needs of the business.
SkillsPEI can contribute up to 50% of the direct training costs.
Up to $5 million in project funding per project, to a maximum of $10 million per Primary Applicant over the Program (non-repayable contributions; applicant must contribute 20% towards project costs)
Grant
Description:
The Workplace Innovation Fund supports key sectors to adopt new technology and processes to address labour shortages and increase productivity to help with workforce challenges.
Both private and not-for-profit/non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for up to $5 million in project funding.
Up to 75% of eligible training costs
Grant
Description:
The Workplace Innovation and Productivity Skills Incentive (WIPSI) provides funding to businesses, industry associations and sector councils to enhance workforce skills and improve innovation and productivity.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
Workforce Partnership grants provide funding to organizations such as employers, industry and sector associations, regional organizations and Indigenous organizations to support labour market adjustment strategies and workforce development, including initiatives to attract and retain workers through partnerships.
Businesses: conditional contribution of up to 50% of an intern’s salary and employer’s portion of MERCs to a maximum of $35,000 per year (up to 90% for municipalities, Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations)
Grant
Description:
The Workforce Development Program covers salaries/wages and the employer’s portion of Mandatory Employment Related Costs (MERCs) for a limited-term 52-week internship position. It is open to businesses, municipalities, Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations located in Northern Ontario that have been in operation for at least one year and have at least one full-time employee.
Individuals & groups can apply for a maximum of $750 (maximum annual funding of $750), paid 75% up front and 25% upon completion of final report
Grant
Description:
Objective: this program is designed to provide professional development for the following:
1. To improve creative skills
2. To gain greater knowledge of the music industry
3. To conduct business that seeks to promote and market MusicNL members outside the province
4. To attend (virtual) music related conferences, festivals and events
Employers (farm or veterinary clinic) receive a wage subsidy of $6,000 ($12.50/hr) paid over 2 installments; students receive a $2,500 bursary each year of participation; funding limited to 6 applicants in each year
Subsidy, Grant
Description:
The Veterinary Student
Placement Program provides veterinary students with applied learning opportunities and gives them experience in rural Nova Scotia’s agriculture industry.
Commercial applicants: up to a maximum of 60 per cent of project costs, cumulative maximum of $125,000 over the lifetime of the program (increased to $250,000 for major projects); New entrants and small businesses: up to a maximum of 60 per cent of project costs, cumulative maximum of $30,000 over the lifetime of the program; Non-profit organizations, governments and institutions: up to a maximum of 100 per cent of project costs
Grant
Description:
The Training program provides funding for:
a) attending agricultural courses, seminars, workshops and conferences;
b) participating in mentorship opportunities;
c) hosting agricultural courses, seminars, workshops and conferences.
Up to 90% of eligible costs for the first $5,000 and up to 60% of eligible costs beyond $5,000, to a maximum of $20,000 over the lifetime of the program
Grant
Description:
The Business Planning program provides funding for hiring consultant services and purchasing business software.
$20,000
Grant, In-Kind Support
Description:
As TechAlliance takes bold steps towards equitable growth, we continue to unlock opportunities for some of Canada’s most promising startups and fastest-growing innovation companies with the i.d.e.a. Fund™ to foster a vibrant, inclusive and green ecosystem.
In Cohort 3, we will distribute up to a maximum of $20,000 in matching seed funding and up to 30 hours of expertise from our Venture Growth team to select innovative businesses in various sectors.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Targeted Labour Market program (TLMP) provides funding of up to one year in duration to eligible employers, institutions or training providers to enable Nunavut-based education and/or training for occupations or skills that either are or will be in demand in the near future.
This program supports the development and delivery of training and employment programs to unemployed Nunavummiutwho experience multiple barriers to employment.
OCI contribution $30,000 per three units (12 months), up to a maximum of $60,000 (six units, 24 months); industry partner contributes at least $30,000 per three units (at least $15,000 in cash)
Grant
Description:
The OVIN Talent Development Internship Program (OVIN-TIP) provides support for current college and university students and recent undergraduate or Master’s graduates, to work on industry-driven research and development projects related to automotive and smart mobility technology such as Connected and Autonomous Vehicle (CAV) technologies, Electric Vehicles (EV), battery technologies the metallurgical (metal & mining) sector and other related areas. Companies can tap into world-class talent to strengthen their capacity to develop new products, services, and processes, while interns receive hands-on industry experience and mentorship opportunities in areas such as software and hardware development, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.
OCI contribution $35,000 per 12-month unit, up to a maximum of $70,000 (two units); industry partner contributes at least $50,000 per unit
Grant
Description:
The OVIN Talent Development Fellowship Program (OVIN-TFP) provides support for PhD graduates and post-doctoral fellows, to work on industry-driven research and development projects related to automotive and smart mobility technology such as Connected and Autonomous Vehicle (CAV) technologies, Electric Vehicles (EV), battery technologies the metallurgical (metal & mining) sector and other related areas. Companies can tap into world-class talent to strengthen their capacity to develop new products, services, and processes, while fellows receive hands-on industry experience and mentorship opportunities in areas such as software and hardware development, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
PictureNL has a full-time Industry Development Officer who works on behalf of crew, producers and filmmakers to organize and support specific workshops, training opportunities, job placements and other projects designed to increase the local industry’s capacity.
The Sponsorship Program provides qualified individuals and organizations with funding assistance, enabling them to promote the products of the local industry. Applicants eligible for funding are Newfoundland and Labrador residents and organizations with screen industries as their principal activities.
Successful applicants receive between $1,000 and $5,000
Grant
Description:
The Spark Tourism Micro-grant program supports new and emerging entrepreneurs who offer visitor experiences and services in the Yukon. The program helps turn your idea into reality and acts as a catalyst to spark larger future projects.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream offers funding to organizations for innovative projects that address challenges to hiring, training, or retaining workers, including apprentices, to drive Ontario’s economic growth.
Up to 70% of the eligible costs for training to a maximum contribution of $3,000 per project; maximum assistance per applicant is $6,000 in each fiscal year (April 1 – March 31)
Grant
Description:
Business Planning, Skills Development and Agriculture Education Program Description/ Objectives To support business planning, skills development and awareness in the New Brunswick agriculture sector.
Skills and Career Development: maximum $10,000 per grant; grants awarded may be smaller than the amount requested
Grant
Description:
This program supports Ontario-based Indigenous arts professionals and arts professionals of colour, or ad hoc groups and collectives made up of Indigenous arts professionals or arts professionals of colour for professional development and skill-building opportunities that advance applicants’ work and careers.
Micro-grant: $1,000 (for individual applicants only); Small scale: up to $7,500; Large scale: up to $15,000 (large scale grants over $7,500 must have matching revenue from other sources)
Grant
Description:
Artists in Communities grants support arts-related activities for underserved applicants and/or communities that face barriers to accessing artistic opportunities.
Up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $20,000 for each project; funding once per project stage, up to a maximum of 2 stages per project
Grant
Description:
Production companies can apply for funding from the Screenwriters Development Fund to develop scripts by Nova Scotian writers for film and television. You can apply until 1 September 2026.
Up to 50% of course fees for eligible participants, to a maximum of $300 to $2,800 depending on the course (per day for workshops); up to 75% for eligible Enbridge customers on selected courses (e.g. up to $2,500 for Certified Energy Manager)
Rebate
Description:
Get ahead with energy management training for your business! Save on Energy offers incentives of up to 50 percent for a range of industry-leading training courses for energy professionals.
Performance Incentive: $0.02/kWh of Confirmed Electricity Savings, up to a maximum of $100,000 in any 12-month period; Enabling Incentives: up to $5,000 over the duration of the program
In-Kind Support, Grant
Description:
Save on Energy has expanded its Energy Management program offering for commercial, institutional and industrial facilities.
EEM is a tailored energy management offering based on the unique business needs of your organization. It offers the following paths to help facilities save energy and achieve sustainability goals.
Up to 40% of the eligible costs for individual agri-food operations to a maximum of $50,000 over the life of the program (April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2028); up to 100% of the eligible costs for agriculture associations to a maximum of $40,000 per year (April 1 to March 31)
Grant
Description:
Support the agriculture sector to prepare for and maintain resilience in relation to emerging challenges including extreme weather events, animal and plant disease outbreaks, emergencies/natural disasters, wildlife damage, farmer mental health, and farm safety.
Up to 15% of eligible project costs; loans up to 15% to a maximum of $5 million, interest free during the project period (up to four years), with up to 30% of the loan (to a maximum of $500,000) forgivable; grants only in specific circumstances, up to 15% to a maximum of $500,000 for small companies in rural communities or $1.5 million for strategic projects
Grant, Loan
Description:
The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) Stream will provide financial support to advanced manufacturing companies with a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises across Ontario.
Up to 80% of eligible expenses (up to 50% of eligible expenses for businesses); the maximum grant amount varies by component
Grant
Description:
The Programme d’appui à la francophonie canadienne – PAFC (Canadian Francophonie Support Program) provides funding for projects that aim to:
1. help develop Francophone and Acadian communities in Canada;
2. promote and encourage the use of French in Canada;
3. strengthen the ties between Quebecers and Francophones/Francophiles in Canada;
4. reinforce the sentiment of belonging to an inclusive pan-Canadian Francophonie.
Fixed amounts of $500, $750, $1,000 or $1,500, up to 50% of total eligible costs
Grant
Description:
This grant program is intended to provide partial support to artists, arts administrators, or arts educators for activities that contribute to their professional development and enhance their careers in the arts.
Up to 75 per cent of your cash expenses, up to a maximum of $10,000 per fiscal year for emerging musician activities and $30,000 per fiscal year for established musician activities
Grant
Description:
The Performing Musicians Fund supports activities that help Yukon musicians build sustainable careers in the music industry.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Ontario Labour Market Partnerships program provides financial assistance to local communities, sector groups, employee/employer associations, and employers in developing and implementing strategies for addressing and responding to local economic (employment) development, labour force adjustments and human resource planning.
$20,000
Grant
Description:
The program supports the creation, production and presentation of live and virtual dance and other initiatives that benefit the Ontario professional dance community.
Farms and co-operatives, maximum by gross farming income: Under $10,000: $10,000; $10,000 – $49,999: $25,000; $50,000 – $99,999: $50,000; $100,000 – $249,999: $75,000; $250,000 or more: $100,000. Non-profit agricultural industry associations and community pastures: $75,000 (first time), up to $100,000 if previously funded. Eligible costs cost shared 85:15 (program:applicant)
Grant
Description:
On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) is an initiative to help farmers improve soil health, protect soil from erosion, and tackle climate change by adopting beneficial management practices that store carbon and reduce greenhouse gases. The program offers funding to help farmers implement nitrogen management, cover cropping, and rotational grazing practices.
Maximum contribution of $50,000, subject to available funding, once per fiscal year, paid in two installments
Grant
Description:
This program provides contributions to individuals, non-profit organizations and municipal corporations to support the development and enhancement of the arts in Nunavut.
New Works, Presentation, Skills/Career Development and Working with Community: maximum $15,000 each; grants awarded may be smaller than the amount requested
Grant
Description:
The program supports the creation, production and presentation of artwork; professional development; and community-engaged arts initiatives that benefit communities in northern Ontario (see OAC’s geographic regions map as a PDF or on Google Maps).The program has four categories:
$10,000
Grant
Description:
Since 2015, Digital Nova Scotia has been proud to bring its members free* training opportunities with the assistance of Nova Scotia’s Workplace Innovation and Productivity Skills Incentive (WIPSI). These programs are focused on improving Nova Scotian productivity, profitability, innovation, technology, machinery, equipment and increasing inter-provincial and international competitiveness while fostering workplace diversity.
$10,000
Grant
Description:
The Next Level program provides funding for Northwestern Ontario businesses with an innovative product or service and looking to expand. The support may be applicable to contracted expertise, services or direct costs in any of the following areas: equipment purchase, expansion to new markets, conference & tradeshows costs ($1,000 max), training & certification costs.
The total grant amount is $15,000: $7,500 paid directly to the newcomer or refugee artist and $7,500 paid directly to the mentor; projects involving Deaf artists and artists with disabilities may apply for an additional TAC Accessibility Grant of up to a maximum of $5,000 towards accessibility costs
Grant
Description:
Newcomer and Refugee Artist Mentorship program provides support for newcomer and refugee artists to develop their artistic practice and establish connections to sustain their practice and livelihood in the Toronto arts community.
The program provides funding for individual newcomer and refugee professional* artists to be mentored (guided) in their chosen arts discipline.
$2,000 – $60,000, funding up to 75% of eligible project expenses ($2,000 to $20,000 for individuals, collectives, and companies or organizations without externally prepared financial statements; $2,000 to $60,000 for companies or organizations with externally prepared financial statements)
Grant
Description:
The Music Industry Initiatives program supports initiatives that grow and develop British Columbia’s music ecosystem.
Successful projects will build the capacity of B.C.’s music industry through training, collaboration, and creating new industry and business opportunities. Canadian companies, not-for-profit organizations, individuals, and collectives are able to apply.
$30,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Market Development program is designed to advance the agriculture, agri-food and agri-product sector’s innovation and business capacity to maintain existing markets and capture emerging market opportunities. The program will provide financial assistance to eligible recipients for market development activities that enhance the export capacity of individual businesses and improve overall domestic and international access for the sector.
Up to $1,000
Grant
Description:
The Travel/Professional Development program supports professional artists and arts/cultural professionals in all disciplines for activities related to the development of their practice or careers.
Maximum government contribution of $20,000 per employer, per region, per fiscal year; applications must total more than $1,000 per application (before HST), and the applicant must financially contribute towards the eligible training costs
Grant
Description:
The Labour Force Training program’s objective is to provide funding to eligible businesses and organizations which may assist in the training of existing employees so that they may develop the necessary skills to maintain labour market attachment.
no fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Labor Market Partnerships Program provides funding to support employers, employer or employee associations, community groups and communities in developing and implementing labor market strategies and activities for dealing with labour force adjustments and meeting human resource requirements. Labour Market Partnerships may be used to provide assistance for employed persons who are facing loss of employment.
Conditional contribution or a combination of a conditional contribution and term loan, on a case-by-case basis, to a maximum of $5 million; combined federal and provincial government funding may not exceed 50% of eligible project costs
Grant, Loan
Description:
Businesses locating new business operations to Northern Ontario are eligible to apply to the Invest North – Locate Program.
Conditional contribution only of up to 20% of total eligible costs to a maximum of $400,000; or a conditional contribution of up to 20% of total eligible costs to a maximum of $400,000 plus a term loan of up to 30% of total eligible costs to a maximum of $600,000; or a term loan only of up to 50% of total eligible costs to a maximum of $1,000,000 (combined federal and provincial funding may not exceed 50% of eligible project costs)
Grant, Loan
Description:
Businesses growing their existing business operations in Northern Ontario are eligible to apply.
Conditional contribution of up to 50% of total eligible project costs to a maximum of $200,000
Grant
Description:
Invest North Launch The Invest North Program is designed to boost economic growth in Northern Ontario by encouraging businesses to invest in transformative, strategic and complementary business development opportunities in Northern Ontario communities. The program will support productivity, innovation, business competitiveness, revenue growth, export capacity development, job creation and retention. The Launch program is designed specifically to assist with the launch of new businesses in Northern Ontario.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Industry Expansion Program is aimed at supporting companies that are locating new operations in Manitoba or expanding existing Manitoba operations.
Level of Investment – $15,000; Percentage of Investment – 100%
Grant
Description:
The Industry Builders Mentorship component of the Music Nova Scotia Investment Program supports developmental employment relationships between Developing and Export-Ready Artists/Companies/Entrepreneurs (Mentee) and mentors in which a more experienced music industry professional (Mentor) shares information, skills or knowledge and standards or best practices that will advance the applicant’s career, enhance their education and build their networks. The Industry Builders Mentorship program is only available to applicants of racialized communities: People of Mi’kmaq descent and other Indigenous Peoples; people of African, Asian, Latin American, Middle Eastern, and mixed racial heritage descent who have been historically disadvantaged as a group and may experience discrimination based on colour, culture and race.
Grants are available up to $10,000 based on projected expenses, including artist subsistence
Grant
Description:
The Edmonton Arts Council’s (EAC) Individuals & Collectives grant has three distinct streams, each with its own evaluation criteria and assessment process.
Stream 2 supports receiving mentorship, attending a residency, or other forms of professional development for artists and arts and cultural workers.
For eligible businesses, a conditional contribution of up to 75% of an Indigenous intern’s salary and employer’s portion of MERCs to a maximum of $52,500 per year. For municipalities, Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations, up to 90% to a maximum of $35,000 per year.
Grant
Description:
The Indigenous Workforce Development Program funds salaries/wages and the employer’s portion of Mandatory Employment Related Costs for a limited-term internship position of 52 weeks for candidates who identify as an Indigenous person. Businesses, municipalities, Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations located in Northern Ontario can apply.
Grants of $500 or $1,000 to help cover the cost of buying art materials and supplies only; grants awarded may be smaller than the amount requested; one grant per program year
Grant
Description:
The program supports Ontario-based First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists working in the visual arts, crafts or traditional/customary Indigenous art forms to create artwork or facilitate workshops. Grants of $500 or $1,000 help cover the cost of buying art materials and supplies only.
Non-repayable funding of $25,000-$80,000 per project; no minimum cost-share requirement
Grant
Description:
The ISAT program supports Indigenous Nations, communities, businesses, and organizations in increasing Indigenous participation in agriculture, seafood, food processing and related community economic development initiatives.
The program does so by addressing labour capacity and workforce challenges within the food, seafood and agriculture sectors. ISAT funds activities involved in training and skills development, peer-to-peer learning, and revitalization of cultural and economic food harvesting and production practices.
$80,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Indigenous Food Systems and Agriculture Partnership Program (IFSAP) funds activities involved in agriculture, food processing, and/or food systems planning, training and skills development, technological adoption, productivity and profitability improvements, and climate change adaptations.
Stream 1 (Planning & Development): community businesses and Indigenous farms up to $150,000; entrepreneurs up to $100,000. Stream 2 (Implementation & Capital): community businesses and Indigenous farms up to $250,000; entrepreneurs up to $150,000.
Grant
Description:
The Indigenous Food Security and Sovereignty (IFS) Grant offers non-repayable funding to BC First Nations, Indigenous organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs to support the development, growth, and innovation of Indigenous food systems, agriculture, sustainability, and food sovereignty.
No fixed amount
Grant, Loan
Description:
The Indigenous Economic Development Fund (IEDF) provides grants and financing to Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, communities and organizations. The fund helps promote economic development and improve employment opportunities for Indigenous people.
Maximum grant is $10,000 per project; 90 per cent paid on completion of the required documents, final 10 per cent on delivery of a final report
Grant
Description:
The Indigenous Arts & Culture Fund supports projects that create new opportunities and visibility for Indigenous-led arts and culture. The fund aims to spark new relationships between Indigenous artists, arts and culture professionals and potential partners at both the grassroots and institutional levels.
Incubation funding supports first-time initiatives, project research or pilot phases.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
Funding to support skill sharing, group learning and knowledge transfer events, such as conferences and workshops, peer to peer learning activities, and other community driven culturally relevant food system learning initiatives.
Micro-grant: up to $1,000; Small scale: up to $5,000; Large scale: up to $15,000 (successful applicants may receive a full award or a partial award of at least 75 per cent of the amount requested)
Grant
Description:
The Indigenous 360 program supports artistic and cultural activities by Indigenous applicants including artists, Knowledge Keepers, Indigenous-led arts groups and Indigenous-led organizations.
Interest relief of up to $4,000 per year for three years, to a maximum contribution of $12,000 (2% per year with Grade 12 or 1% per year without, on loans up to $200,000), plus up to $1,000 per applicant toward training costs, normally cost-shared 50-50
Subsidy, Grant
Description:
If you are a new entrant in the lobster fishery in Prince Edward Island, you may be eligible for support through the Future Fisher Program. This program offers training and financial assistance to aid new entrant lobster fishers to become better positioned for success in the PEI lobster fishery.
Up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $10,000 per company per program year
Grant, In-Kind Support
Description:
The Food Ventures Program complements other provincial food-based funding programs by supporting access to Perennia’s technical specialists’ knowledge, expertise and services for Nova Scotia agri-food and beverage businesses.
The overall objective is to support Nova Scotia businesses to increase sales.
$2,000
Grant
Description:
The Food Ventures Program provides financial support for the acceleration of innovative and safe Nova Scotia local products to market using Perennia’s food safety and product development services.
Up to 50% of the eligible costs for projects benefiting one agricultural producer, up to 70% for two or more agricultural producers, up to 100% where an agriculture association is the applicant; maximum $15,000 per year for individual businesses (abattoirs under Food Safety and Assurance Systems: $50,000 in one year) and $50,000 over the life of the program (April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2028)
Grant
Description:
Risk Management and Food Safety Program Description/Objectives Accelerate the adoption of recognized assurance systems, including food safety, biosecurity, traceability, and animal welfare in the production, processing, and distribution of New Brunswick agri-food products.
60:40 cost share for food safety activities and 50:50 for traceability activities, to a maximum funding limit of $30,000 for all food safety items and $30,000 for all traceability items
Grant
Description:
7 Section 1 – Program Description This program is designed to assist Manitoba’s agri-food and agri-product sectors in adopting and improving food safety and traceability practices. Financial assistance will be provided to eligible recipients for the development and implementation of food safety programs, food safety training, validation and verification activities and traceability.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Government of Canada and the Prince Edward Island (PEI) Department of Agriculture are redirecting funds into existing programs that support farmers and agri-businesses in finding new markets and foster innovation. The Business Development Program will support the agriculture sector by providing funding for training, business planning and implementation, organizational development, benchmarking and risk management activities. The program will facilitate the development of sound business practices and is designed to enhance the capacity of PEI Agricultural producers, small to medium-sized agri-businesses and organizations to better understand and manage their financial performance, respond to change and maximize the use of comprehensive risk management options for their agriculture operations.
Grants available up to $10,000 based on projected expenses, including artist subsistence, for individual or collective projects (subsistence set at $500 per week)
Grant
Description:
The purpose of the program is to invest in a thriving and diverse arts community in Edmonton by supporting Edmonton based artists and collectives from communities that face barriers to access.
Stream 2 supports receiving mentorship, attending a residency, or other forms of professional development for artists and arts and cultural workers.
Hourly training wage grant of $18.25/hour for ECEAs/RAs and $21.25/hour for ECEs, plus 16% MERCs, towards in-class/online instructional hours, paid to Employers in two installments annually
Grant
Description:
The Early Childhood Educator Training Wage Program helps strengthen the Early Childhood Educator (ECE) workforce by providing a training wage to ECE Assistants (ECEAs), certified ECEs and Responsible Adults employed by licensed child care facilities in the Basin, to support them to complete and/or upgrade their ECE qualifications.
Creation: up to $10,000; Production: up to $10,000; Professional development: up to $10,000 (one category per deadline; grants awarded may be smaller than the amount requested)
Grant
Description:
The program supports Ontario-based:
1. artists and arts professionals who are Deaf and/or have a disability
2. ad hoc groups, collectives and arts organizations mandated to serve and led by artists or arts professionals who are Deaf and/or have a disability
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Cultural Industries Training Fund (CITF) is a Yukon fund for training in the cultural industries. It is currently paused and not open for applications.
Up to 50% of eligible costs to a max of $150,000 per sector-based development project per year (provincial); up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $60,000 per year (regional); maximum contribution for individual or group projects over the life of the program shall not exceed $120,000
Grant
Description:
Crop and Livestock Sector Development Program Description/ Objectives To support crop and livestock development opportunities including:
1. Economic development programming for sectors with growth
opportunities.
1. Regional economic development opportunities.
Exterior: up to 50% of eligible construction costs, maximum $20,000 to $90,000 per building based on storefront linear footage, and a maximum of $120,000 per commercial site; Interior: up to 50% of eligible construction costs, maximum $20,000 per contiguous commercial site
Grant
Description:
The Corner Store Grant program provides matching reimbursement for exterior and interior renovations to property owners in Neighbourhood Commercial Areas.
$35,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Getting Started, Creation and Training Schedule supports the government’s commitments to tourism and cultural industries related education and training in keeping with the guiding principle of Pilimmaksarniq/Pijariuqsarniq (development of skills though practice, effort and action). This schedule supports small businesses, individuals, organizations and municipalities that seek to start, build upon, or enhance their service delivery capacity or hone their artistic ability.
$7,500 per grant in each category (artists practicing 10 years or less, artists practicing 11 years or more, arts administrators); no partial grants, so the project budget must be at least $7,500
Grant
Description:
The program supports professional development for Ontario artists and arts administrators who want to gain new skills – or improve existing skills – to advance their practice at any stage of their career. It funds all contemporary and traditional art practices that OAC supports in other project programs.
Minimum $30,000, maximum $50,000; the grant can cover 100 per cent of eligible expenses
Grant
Description:
Chalmers Arts Fellowships provide Ontario artists with a significant block of time to undertake an investigation or examination of their artistic practice instead of creating or producing work. The program provides support at a time in an artist’s career when a concentration on artistic growth will have a transformative impact on their long-term artistic development. Professional artists in all disciplines with an artistic practice of more than 10 years are eligible.
$3,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Career Development program is designed to recognize and encourage arts professionals who have demonstrated exceptional artistic talent and potential, and who are pursuing a career in the arts.
The Professional Development component assists professional artists to pursue full-time, part-time or shortterm studies, workshops, and mentorships.
Eligible training costs up to a maximum of $10,000 per trainee; employers with 100 or more employees get half of training costs covered, employers with under 100 employees pay at least one-sixth, and previously unemployed new hires are eligible for up to $15,000 per trainee with no minimum employer contribution (up to 100% funding)
Grant
Description:
The Ontario Job Grant (OJG) provides funding to help businesses train their employees and update their skills. This helps employers ensure their workforce has the right skills to adapt to a changing economy.
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 of the cost of training, except for an unemployed participant
Grant
Description:
The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Job Grant (CNLJG) provides funding to eligible businesses and organizations to help offset the cost of training for their existing and future employees.
Repayable term loans at an interest rate equal to the Bank of Canada rate + 0.5%
Loan
Description:
The Business Investment Program provides term loans to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in strategic growth sectors as identified by Jobs, Growth and Rural Development. The fund is also available to businesses which have export potential and require assistance to enter or expand in external markets.
75% of total budget up to max investment of $15,000.00 maximum per Applicant per Deadline
Grant
Description:
The Mentorship Component supports developmental employment relationships between Developing and Export-Ready Artists/Companies/Entrepreneurs (Mentee) and mentors in which a more experienced music industry professional (Mentor) shares information, skills or knowledge, and standards or best practices that will advance the applicant’s career, enhance their education and build their networks. The applicant (Mentee) should receive the primary benefit of the mentorship.
75% of total budget up to max investment – $15,000.00 maximum per Applicant per Deadline
Grant
Description:
The Mentorship Component supports developmental employment relationships between Developing and Export-Ready Artists/Companies/Entrepreneurs (Mentee) and mentors in which a more experienced music industry professional (Mentor) shares information, skills or knowledge, and standards or best practices that will advance the applicant’s career, enhance their education and build their networks. The applicant (Mentee) should receive the primary benefit of the mentorship.
75% of total budget up to max investment – $15,000.00 maximum per Applicant per Deadline
Grant
Description:
The Mentorship Component supports developmental employment relationships between Developing and Export-Ready Artists/Companies/Entrepreneurs (Mentee) and mentors in which a more experienced music industry professional (Mentor) shares information, skills or knowledge, and standards or best practices that will advance the applicant’s career, enhance their education and build their networks.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Building UP program provides funding for projects that strengthen the labour market. It supports projects that:
help people build skills, find jobs and succeed at work;
support employers with hiring and workforce needs; and
connect people to jobs.
Up to 75% of the approved budget to a maximum of $5,000 per application (Build Level 1) or $20,000 per application (Build Level 2)
Grant
Description:
This program is designed to encourage the growth and development of competitive, sustainable and commercially viable companies within the Manitoba music industry by providing financial support for costs associated with increasing capacity, improving industry skill levels and developing infrastructure.
Creation & Development: maximum grant $10,000 ($15,000 including a mentorship component); Presentation: maximum grant $15,000 ($20,000 including a mentorship component); TAC may fund up to 100% of the requested amount
Grant
Description:
The Black Arts Projects Program supports arts projects by Black artists, Black artist collectives (consisting of two or more Black artists), and Black-led, Black-focused and Black-serving non-profit organizations.1 For the purpose of this program, “Black” refers to African descendant people across the diaspora including but not limited to African Canadian, Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Latinx, East African, West African, Southern and Central African, Afro-Arab, Afro Indigenous, etc. This funding program is intended to support the development, continuation, and flourishing of Black arts communities.
$50,000
Grant
Description:
The purpose of this Project Category is to reduce animal health risks in a measurable and proven way through physical set up of production areas, practices, testing, monitoring and management along with operations assessments/plans and education or training.
$5,000
Grant
Description:
The purpose of this Project Category is to build farm-specific knowledge and expertise in support of plant health (for example, conducting pest risk assessments, developing biosecurity procedures and integrated pest management plans, and participating in plant health training).
$75,000.00
Grant
Description:
The BC Climate Agri-Solutions Fund (BCCAF) provides cost-shared funding to eligible producers and supports the training of certified crop advisors and agrologists as well as information sharing throughout the agricultural community. The objective of BCCAF is to support farmers in adopting beneficial management practices (BMPs) that store carbon and reduce greenhouse gases, specifically in the areas of:
Nitrogen Management
Cover Cropping
Rotational Grazing
These practices also provide other environmental benefits such as improved biodiversity and soil health. Other activities to support the adoption of beneficial management practices, such as outreach, education and training are also supported.
80 per cent of the cost of training up to $10,000 per employee, with a maximum annual amount per employer of $300,000 per fiscal year (April 1 – March 31)
Grant
Description:
The B.C. Employer Training Grant provides funding to small, medium and large enterprises to support skills training for their workforces, including prospective new hires.
The intent of this program is to help British Columbians access the skills training required to adapt to the labour market’s changing job requirements, while also encouraging employer involvement in skills training.
Rebate of 75 per cent of pre-approved eligible costs to a maximum payment of $50,000, within a $50,000 annual funding limit per applicant (minimum rebate of $250)
Rebate
Description:
The Agriculture Awareness Initiative Program (AAIP) provides support to build awareness and trust in modern agriculture. The program is designed to help individuals and organizations tell Saskatchewan agriculture’s sustainability story.
AAIP is a proposal-based, pre-approval program to fund strategic industry projects that target priority audiences and address key threats to agriculture’s social licence.
Up to $17,000 to eligible employers when apprentices meet training and certification milestones ($1,000 per milestone, plus $1,000 more for each apprentice under 25 or from an under-represented group)
Grant
Description:
The Achievement Incentive is a grant program that:
1. helps employers train apprentices by reducing some of the cost of training
2. supports apprentice progression by giving grant payments to employers when their apprentices reach major milestones
The program offers up to $17,000 to eligible employers when apprentices meet training and certification milestones.
About the author
Maurice
