01
Why wage subsidies matter
Hiring Opportunity Youth (OY) can be one of the most impactful decisions your organization makes. But let’s be real: hiring is a commitment. It takes time, money, and trust.
Wage subsidies help mitigate that risk.
They provide a practical financial incentive for employers to take a chance on youth who may not yet “check every box” but have the drive and potential to grow with your organization. In doing so, you’re not just filling a job – you’re helping to build a future.
Think of wage subsidies as a bridge – from potential to performance, from hesitation to action.
But here’s the catch: these programs can be hard to find, time-sensitive, and specific to region, sector, or youth demographic. That’s why this Simplifier exists: to help you cut through the noise and take your next step.
02
How to stay in the know
Programs come and go. Availability shifts. But there’s one essential tool to keep bookmarked:
This online tool lists wage subsidy programs and allows you to filter by:
- Type of Support: Choose wage subsidies and internships.
- Province/Territory: Example – Alberta.
- Main Goal: Hiring or training employees.
- Industry: Tailor to your sector.
- Employee Demographics: Choose youth or specific equity-deserving groups.
This is your one-stop-shop to stay current. We recommend checking quarterly and subscribing to program updates where available.
03
Programs you should know
Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ)
Who it’s for: Employers in the public sector, not-for-profits, and private companies with ≤ 50 employees.
What it does: Subsidizes wages to create summer employment for youth aged 15–30.
Bonus: Prioritizes equity-deserving youth, including OY.
Apply by: Typically closes each December for summer placements.
The Immigrant Education Society (TIES) – EYE Program
Who it’s for: Employers hiring newcomer youth (ages 15–30).
What it does: Offsets a portion of wages for 12 weeks, making hiring more affordable.
Focus areas: Admin, retail, customer service, childcare, and more.
Aboriginal Futures Wage Subsidy Program
Who it’s for: Calgary-area employers hiring First Nations or Inuit youth.
What it does: Offers wage support for youth experiencing employment barriers.
In partnership with: Community Futures Treaty Seven (CFT7).
Indigenous Skills & Employment Training (ISET) Program
Who it’s for: Employers working with Indigenous-serving organizations.
What it does: Supports skills development and job placements through wage subsidies.
Access through: ISET agreement holders.
The Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant (CAPG)
Who it’s for: Employers register and submit a grant application via the CAPG portal.
What it does: This program helps employers by partially reimbursing costs to send current and future employees for applicable training.
Funded by: The Government of Canada through the Workforce Development Agreement.
Alberta Youth Employment Incentive
Who’s it for: Qualified employers hiring Albertans aged 15 to 24.
What it does: Provides up to $7,500 to incentivize employers.
Focus areas: All business/industry sectors, but NOT for registered apprenticeships, CO-OP positions, or positions already supported by another wage subsidy/grant incentive.
04
Quick tips for making the most of wage subsidies
Build relationships with non-profit agencies.
Many have in-house knowledge of programs, application support, and even pre-screened candidates. And, they may be guiding young people to explore available grants and bursaries to assist with workplace needs, clothing or safety gear.
Don’t wait until you have a job opening.
Some subsidies require pre-approval or applications well in advance of a hire.
Be ready to move fast.
Programs often have short windows. Bookmark the Government of Canada’s Business Benefits Finder and set calendar reminders to review quarterly.
05 – Final Word
Hiring talent shouldn’t be out of reach. With wage subsidies, it’s not.
Wage subsidies don’t just lower your hiring costs – they lower the barrier to building a better, more inclusive workforce. With the right support and the right opportunity, an Opportunity Youth can become your next star employee. The first step is making it possible.
Contents
Explore other tools
Let’s build an inclusive future together
Your leadership can change the trajectory of a young person’s life – and your workplace in the process. Let’s lead with purpose, hire with courage, and grow a future that works for everyone.
Quick Start Hiring Guide
Attract talent as you empower Opportunity Youth
Myth-Busting FAQ
Shifting perspectives on Opportunity Youth
Optimal Onboarding & Mentoring Guide
Drive workplace success from the start