Ontario invests up to $260 million in workforce training

Ontario Government Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream opens today with an additional $260 million available, the largest round of funding since the Fund’s launch in 2021. Building on the success of the previous four rounds, this fifth round will help address Ontario’s workforce shortage by connecting job seekers with employers, enabling them to launch rewarding careers in in-demand sectors such as manufacturing, construction and technology.

“Under Premier Ford, our government has revitalized our province’s manufacturing and construction sectors – and Ontario’s workers are key to our success,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Today, our government is launching the fifth round of our Skills Development Fund, with up to $260 million in funding available – making it the largest round to date and the largest investment in job training in Ontario’s history. We call on Ontario’s business and labor communities and anyone interested in training workers to submit their proposals and help build Ontario.”

Starting today, Employers, employment and training providers, trade unions, business and industry organisations, municipalities, hospitals, Indigenous band offices, Indigenous skills and vocational training agreement holders, service managers and other community organisations eligible for funding should submit their proposals via Payment by bank transfer Ontario. Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis until October 4, 2024.

This latest round of funding brings Ontario’s total investment through the Skills Development Fund to $1.4 billion. As Ontario grows, the SDF will help ensure that skilled workers are trained and ready for fulfilling jobs in sectors that are in demand in their communities.

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