News

$28,000 for Learning Skills

Ontario Working for Workers by Expanding Training to More People

NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government is working for workers by launching a new training program, Better Jobs Ontario. Anyone looking to train for in-demand work, including those on social assistance, who are self-employed, gig workers, youth, and newcomers to the province, can apply to start learning the skills they need to earn bigger paycheques for themselves and their families.

“This is great news for those looking for one of the hundreds of skilled jobs available in Nipissing,” said Vic Fedeli. “As our government has said, whether you are a young person struggling to break into the job market, or unemployed and on social assistance, we are here to give you a hand up to building a better life.”

Starting this Friday, Better Jobs Ontario will pay up to $28,000 in tuition and other costs for short-duration training programs that allow job seekers to match their skills with the needs of hiring employers in the community. Expanding on the current Second Career program, more applicants will now be eligible for up to $500 per week in financial support for basic living expenses.

Quick Facts

• The Better Jobs Ontario program funds tuition for training programs of 52 weeks duration or less, including eligible college and some university courses, micro-credential programs, and other vocational training programs.
• Since January 2021, 5,168 people have started training through the program to get the hand up they need into in-demand long-term jobs in their communities.
• Through Better Jobs Ontario, additional support applicants may also receive disability-related supports, childcare, or accommodation near their training, depending on their circumstances.
• The number of people unemployed in Ontario was 429,800 in March 2022.
• Employment Ontario is supported through labour market transfer agreements between the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

Additional Resources

• Better Jobs Ontario: Grant funding to help people pay for tuition and living expenses
• Employment Ontario: Free employment services and training programs for job seekers, workers and employers