Provincial Press Release May 18, 2021 @ 1:11 pm published 2:33 pm
More than 22,000 Albertans will be able to get back to work through the largest jobs training program in Alberta’s history.
The Alberta Jobs Now program will provide up to $370 million to help private and non-profit businesses support much-needed jobs for unemployed and underemployed Albertans across the province and help Alberta’s economy recover.
Employers will be able to apply for a grant that covers 25 per cent of an employee’s salary for a 52-week period up to a maximum of $25,000 per employee. The grant can be used to cover salary or training costs. Employers who hire persons with disabilities will receive a grant 1.5 times higher than the amount they receive for other new employees.
“We’re investing in Alberta’s economic recovery with financial support to provide job opportunities for unemployed Albertans. This is a long-term investment in working Albertans as we recover from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and recession.” Jason Kenney, Premier
“Reducing costs for employers encourages them to hire and train more people, getting more than 22,000 Albertans back to work faster. With support from the Alberta Jobs Now program, businesses can afford to train workers for the skills the business needs to be successful, and Albertans have an opportunity to gain new skills and find good-paying jobs.” Jason Copping, Minister of Labour and Immigration
“Our economy has seen signs of recovery, and we are working hard to make sure that trend continues. By encouraging businesses to create and fill jobs and train new employees, we’re getting Albertans back to work sooner and putting money in their pockets that they could spend at local businesses, further driving economic recovery.” Doug Schweitzer, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation
“The Jobs Now program will give post-secondary students access to the job opportunities they need. Many of our students have been impacted by the pandemic, the global recession and previous years of economic challenge. This program will help our students find meaningful job opportunities and kick-start their professional careers.” Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education
“This is a very positive partnership between the province and the federal government to help employers get Albertans back to work. A program with the flexibility for businesses to develop industry-specific skills in their workforce, to help them grow and thrive, is what our members have been asking for.” Ken Kobly, president and CEO, Alberta Chambers of Commerce
Employers will be able to apply at alberta.ca/jobsnow as of 9 a.m. on May 20. They can apply for funding for up to 20 new employees. Employers have until Aug. 31 to apply. A second intake will open on Sept. 15 and close on Dec. 31.
To be eligible for the program, private sector business or non-profit organizations must use the funding to hire unemployed Albertans in a new or vacant position. The new hire must reside and work in Alberta and must not have worked for the employer within the past 90 days.
“We believe every Albertan, regardless of the barriers they face, deserves the opportunity to actively participate in their communities and in the workforce. The pandemic has seen a disproportionate number of women experience job loss, while people with disabilities have had limited options to earn a paycheque. This program has the great potential for more Albertans to rejoin the workforce with the skills and supports that meet their goals.” Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Community and Social Services
“The Sinneave Family Foundation is excited about Alberta’s Jobs Now program and the opportunities it will create to connect inclusive employers with diverse job seekers. This important new program has tremendous potential to enhance economic inclusion for autistic Albertans who are ready, willing and able to contribute to Alberta’s economic recovery.” Tanya McLeod, president, Sinneave Family Foundation
For detailed information on eligibility and how to apply, please visit alberta.ca/jobsnow. Alberta’s government is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by protecting lives and livelihoods with precise measures to bend the curve, sustain small businesses and protect Alberta’s health-care system.
Quick facts
In April, Alberta’s unemployment rate was nine per cent.
The Alberta Jobs Now program will provide up to $370 million to help private sector businesses and non-profit organizations hire and train unemployed Albertans.
$185 million in funding is available through federal transfers from the Government of Canada through the Workforce Development Agreement and $185 million is available through provincial funds.
Employers can apply through an application portal starting at 9 a.m. on May 20. Applications will be accepted until Aug. 31.
A second application period will open on Sept. 15 and close on Dec. 31.
Employers can apply for up to 20 new hires during each intake period.
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