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Ontario’s Achievement Incentive Program designed to support those who train apprentices

April 15, 2021 | By Anthony Capkun


April 15, 2021 – Ontario is investing $47 million in 2021-22 to enable employers to hire more apprentices, “improve the quality of training and help them complete their training and certification” through the Achievement Incentive Program and the expanded Apprenticeship Capital Grant.

“Our economic recovery and future growth depends on having a robust skilled workforce,” said Minister Monte McNaughton.

The programs are designed to support those who train apprentices, such as businesses, colleges and other training organizations.

“The Achievement Incentive Program will benefit our entire community: employers, our labour partners… all of those eager to begin apprenticeships. This will help us to continue to build careers for Ontarians; not simply find them jobs,” said Graeme Aitken, Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario.

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The $23-million Achievement Incentive Program will provide over 11,000 employers in the construction, industrial, service and other sectors with up to $4000 in funding per apprentice as they reach key training milestones.

For example, an autobody shop could receive a $1000 payment once their apprentice reaches a new in-class training level, or receives the highest level of trade certification.

The $24-million Apprenticeship Capital Grant (a $10-million increase from last year) aims to help colleges, unions and apprentice training providers upgrade their equipment and facilities. Examples include new virtual reality training equipment and simulators, new tools or upgraded accessibility supports.

The Achievement Incentive is available now to “eligible apprenticeship sponsors”, who received an email from the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development to apply electronically through a secure, one-time online application.

“Employers are an essential participant in the apprenticeship system, providing jobs, training and mentorship for our next generation of skilled workers. As we begin to recover from the pandemic, it is imperative that employers are supported […].” said Karen Renkema, Progressive Contractors Association of Canada.


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