Ontario Construction News staff writer
Applications are now open for Ontario’s new two-year $115 million Skills Development Fund, designed to support workers and apprentices. Funds will specifically address challenges brought on by COVID-19 and help reduce obstacles to hiring, training and retaining while preparing workers for the province’s economic recovery.
“When faced with unprecedented challenges we need innovative solutions, that’s why we developed this new Skills Development Fund. It will lead to fresh and creative ideas to help get people back on the job and kick-start our communities,” said Monte McNaughton, minister of labour, training and skills development.
“My message to workers is clear – there is hope and opportunity around the corner. I’m calling on everyone – businesses, union leaders and training providers – to submit your ideas and participate in our economic recovery.”
Applications are expected from a wide range of employment and training organizations in Ontario, and will focus on:
- giving laid-off workers immediate access to training supports or new jobs
- improving the quality of training
- reaching out to traditionally underrepresented groups
increasing apprentice registrations and completion - better serving local communities
- supporting the talent needs of small businesses
“Supporting the training needs of trade unions, employers and the strong network of training partners are an important step in securing the economic recovery of the province,” said James St. John, business manager, Central Ontario Building Trades and director at Hammer Heads.
Examples of projects include a digital career fair that allows employers to connect with job seekers impacted by COVID-19, mentorship programs and career counselling for apprentices while they are training on-the-job, the creation of training materials that teach employers how to accommodate employees who have disabilities, and making workspaces and equipment more accessible.
Applicants, including employers, apprenticeship training delivery agents, unions, post-secondary institutions, community organizations and others can now submit proposals beginning today, until Feb. 28.
“COVID-19 has transformed how we work,” said James Barry, executive secretary treasurer, IBEW-CCO. “It is essential we strategically manage and prepare for the future. This visionary funding announcement by Minister McNaughton provides support for innovative and effective training approaches that are critical to helping our members continue to contribute to a dynamic and well-trained workforce essential to fueling Ontario’s economic recovery.”
The fund will help quickly address the needs of Ontario’s employers and workers by offering up to $100 million in the first application round in February 2021. A second round of projects is planned to provide an additional $15 million in spring.
In its 2020 Budget, Ontario’s Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover, the government committed an additional $180.5 million over three years to help existing workers improve their skills.
“This investment is just what’s needed to help restart Ontario’s economy. It will allow employers to play an important role in ensuring workers are getting the right training and skills for jobs that are in demand now, and well into the future,” said Stephen Hamilton, chair of the Ontario Skilled Trades Alliance (OSTA).