Canada-BC job grant provides incentive to train employees

Employers in the East Kootenay can now access government funding to help current and future employees gain the skills they need

College of the Rockies offers many programs that fit well into the Canada-BC Jobs Grant program. One of the high-priority sectors identified for the Grant is the forestry industry. — Photo courtesy workbc.ca

Employers in the East Kootenay can now access government funding to help current and future employees gain the skills they need to improve their employment options.

The goal of the Canada-BC Job Grant is to increase the participation of British Columbians in the labour force and to help them to develop the skills necessary to find and keep a job.

Employers are being encouraged to be involved in the training process to ensure that the skills being gained are aligned with job opportunities.  The Grant will reimburse employers up to two thirds of eligible training costs, up to a maximum of $10,000 per participant per fiscal year.

College of the Rockies is one of the post-secondary options available offering programs and training in many of the priority areas identified by the Canada-BC Jobs Grant.  The College’s Continuing Education and Contract Training departments offer many training solutions for business that would fit the Grant criteria.

“This Grant is aimed at improving productivity and competiveness of the workforce,” says Leah Bradish, Director of Continuing Education, Contract Training and Regional Campus Operations at College of the Rockies.  “In 2015, the available funds were exhausted quickly so it is important that those interested in taking advantage of the program act quickly.”

Grant applications are currently being accepted for high priority sectors which include construction, agrifoods, Aboriginal peoples and First Nations, forestry, manufacturing, mining and energy, natural gas, small business, technology and green economy, tourism and transportation.  Training must commence by March 31, 2016 to be covered by the Canada-BC Jobs Grant.  Applications are available online at workbc.ca/Employers/Run-your-business/Canada-B-C-Job-Grant.aspx

Though businesses can submit their applications directly to the province, College of the Rockies can provide assistance in identifying and delivering workforce training solutions.  Those interested can contact Leah Bradish at 250-489-8286 or [email protected].