Compensation for Employers of Reservists Program (CERP)
The Compensation for Employers of Reservists Program (CERP) provides financial support to civilian employers—and self-employed reservists—to help offset operational costs when a reservist-employee is away from the workplace due to military commitments. Applicants may qualify for a lump-sum grant after the reservist-employee returns to the workplace, following an absence of 30 days or more.
Offered by National Defence
Amount
No fixed amount
Quick eligibility check
Who can apply
- The civilian employer must be a Canadian employer of a reservist-employee who is a member of the Primary Reserve or Canadian Rangers. (Federal-government departments or agencies are not eligible.)
- The reservist-employee must be away from the civilian workplace for a minimum of 30 consecutive days to participate in military skills training (e.g., courses, exercises, training activities) or an operation. “Military skills training” includes course instructors and support staff.
- The civilian employer must submit a Grant Application Package and required documents no later than 12 months following the reservist’s return to work.
- Self-employed reservists must provide documentation demonstrating that the business is real, active, and represents the main source of employment for 13 consecutive weeks (or three consecutive months) prior to the leave-of-absence for military duties.
About the funding
The Compensation for Employers of Reservists Program (CERP) provides financial support to civilian employers—and self-employed reservists—to help offset operational costs when a reservist-employee is away from the workplace due to military commitments. Applicants may qualify for a lump-sum grant after the reservist-employee returns to the workplace, following an absence of 30 days or more. The amount of compensation is adjusted annually.
Similar programs
| Program | Type | Amount | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| AgriScience Program – Projects | Grant, In-Kind Support | Up to $5 million per project and $10 million per applicant over the program's duration (2023 to 2028) | Open |
| Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program | Grant, Loan | AAFC contribution normally not exceeding $1 million per project, generally not more than $5 million over 5 years for each applicant | Open |
| Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) | Grant | No fixed amount | Open |
| Science and Technology Internship Program: Green Jobs | Grant | No fixed amount | Open |