Canada is putting more than $430 million over five years into apprenticeship training through the Union Training and Innovation Program, Employment and Social Development Canada announced on 15 October. The government says the country will have more than 1.4 million job openings in the skilled trades between 2024 and 2033.
Key takeaways
- $197.2 million for training centre infrastructure.
- $135 million for new ways to recruit and support apprentices.
- $100 million for training equipment, with the funding share temporarily raised from 50 to 70 percent.
- Deadlines: infrastructure interest by November 12, innovation proposals by December 17.
- The program has supported about 220,000 participants since 2017.
Who is the money for?
It goes to unions and training organisations rather than directly to apprentices. But more training centres and equipment mean more seats for new apprentices, and the innovation stream is aimed at helping pre-apprentices get started and apprentices reach certification.
How can you get into a trade in Canada?
Canada.ca/skilled-trades lists pathways and financial support for apprentices. If you're weighing a trade, see our guides to careers without a degree and Canada's Express Entry occupation list.
What is the background?
Canada faces a large wave of retirements in the skilled trades, at the same time as it wants to build more homes, transit and energy projects. The Union Training and Innovation Program funds unions and training providers to expand capacity. This announcement is part of the wider Team Canada Strong plan, and it comes on top of nearly $1 billion a year that Ottawa already spends on apprenticeship support through loans, grants, tax measures and Employment Insurance.
Who does it affect?
People thinking about a trade, from school leavers to career changers, plus current apprentices who need access to equipment and training seats. Union training centres and industry groups can apply for the money. Canada's Building Trades Unions says its affiliates represent 500,000 tradespeople across 200 training centres.
What should job seekers do?
- Pick a trade with strong demand, such as electrical, plumbing, carpentry or welding.
- Look at pre-apprenticeship programs, which help you get a first placement.
- Check the financial supports for apprentices on Canada.ca, including grants and loans.
- If you are moving to Canada, check whether your trade is recognised and what Red Seal certification involves.
- Our guide to choosing a career path can help you decide.
What happens next?
Organisations can submit infrastructure expressions of interest until November 12 and innovation proposals until December 17. Equipment funding is open at any time. New training places should follow as projects start from spring 2027.
Since 2017 the program has supported nearly 220,000 participants, including about 45,500 in 2025 to 2026, and the government says it wants that number to keep rising. Information on trades careers and supports is at Canada.ca/skilled-trades.
Source: Employment and Social Development Canada, 15 October 2026.
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