Step 1. What this program offers
Intake period: Closed
The next intake period opens on January 27, 2025 and closes on February 24, 2025. The application form will be available on January 27, 2025.
Important changes to the program start in 2025
- Changes to past employee eligibility
- New employment requirements for employer
- Updates to eligibility of certain barrier-related costs
Learn more about eligibility.
The Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP) will contribute approximately $13.5 million to projects that employ youth and youth facing barriers. Each project will be eligible to receive up to $14,000 in matching funds to employ one (1) employee. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is one of several Government of Canada departments participating in the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy.
Funding
The program offers support for 50% of wages to a maximum of $14,000. If approved, the following employers are eligible to receive 80% of total eligible costs, up to a maximum of $14,000:
- Indigenous individuals or organizations
- Employers who hire a youth facing barriers
The program can also provide up to $5,000 in additional support to offset the employment barrier faced by the employee hired.
If a youth facing barriers must relocate within Canada, reasonable expenses directly related to the relocation may also be eligible under barrier expenses. Barrier-related expenses cannot exceed $5,000 and will be supported at 80%. Non-barrier youth may also be eligible for pre-approved relocation costs at the 50% funding level to a maximum of $5,000.
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