Hello,
In light of the rapid shifts in the global trade landscape, Canada is focusing on what we can control: building a stronger, more resilient economy and nation. Protecting existing jobs is a crucial part of these efforts.
I want to highlight the importance of the Work-Sharing Program, which has proven to be a valuable defence against layoffs. Since 2019, this program has helped approximately 120,000 workers keep their jobs, while businesses have retained their skilled workers and recovered from periods of economic volatility.
I am pleased to share that we are building on the success of the Work-Sharing Program with the introduction of the new Worker Retention Grant for Work-Sharing Employers. This initiative aims to further support employers and their employees during these challenging times.
Employers who have Work-Sharing Agreements and commit to providing training opportunities for their employees during non-working days can receive funding that increases their employees’ income replacement from 55% to approximately 70%. This enhancement allows workers to maintain income levels closer to their normal wages while working reduced hours.
The Worker Retention Grant is specifically designed to promote meaningful upskilling and re-skilling in ways that align with your business needs. Eligible training options are intentionally flexible, including online course, informal peer-to-peer learning, and various other formats – as long as they remain relevant to your operations.To assist you in finding suitable courses and training options, Job Bank, Canada’s national employment service, has launched a new Training Finder. This tool connects you directly to upskilling platforms with information about thousands of courses, including low- or no-cost options.
I encourage you to visit the Government of Canada’s webpages on the Worker Retention Grant for Work-Sharing Employers and the Work-Sharing Program to learn more and begin your application.
Should you have any questions or comments, please reach out by email to EDSC.DGOP.DMPJ.SMET-WRG.WDY.POB.ESDC@servicecanada.gc.ca.
Thank you for your collaboration and continued support.
Best regards,
The Honourable Patty Hajdu
Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario