Ontario boosts new incentive program as part of $47M investment in skilled trades

The funding will back employers in construction and a range of other skilled trades sectors. PHOTO: Adobe Stock/primestockphotograpy

Thousands of Ontario employers in construction and several other sectors are getting fresh financial support from the provincial government for hiring and guiding apprentices through the training process.

Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton announced added funding for the new Achievement Incentive Program March 5. The $23 million in ongoing annual funding will offer more than 10,000 employers up to $4,000 per apprentice, based on key training milestones.

“This is critical investment as our apprentices will be the ones who will help provide essential services and build our future hospitals, highways and homes,” McNaughton said in a release. “Through these programs our government is supporting this important training pipeline, creating the next generation of our skilled workers and providing more young people with opportunity to get good jobs in their communities. Our economic recovery and future growth depends on having a robust skilled workforce.”

Along with the Achievement Incentive Program, the province also announced a $24 million to help colleges, unions and apprentice training providers upgrade their equipment and facilities, an increase from $14 million spent last year.

The added funding is part of the province’s Skilled Trades Strategy designed to encourage more young Ontarians to join key industries facing labour shortages.