Hiring tradespeople? Here’s a new grant that’ll save your business some cash!
Givens LLP | Sep 25, 2023
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Could you benefit from $5,000-10,000 per new hire?
Well, if you hire tradespeople then you will want to learn more about this new program designed to compensate you for hiring first-year apprentices. But first, let me lay down the back story.
The Apprenticeship Service Program (ASP) is a newly launched grant that provides financial incentives to small and medium-sized employers in Alberta; that are hiring first-year apprentices in eligible Red Seal trades. This program, funded by the Government of Canada’s Apprenticeship Services in partnership with Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC), aims to support the growth of the skilled trades sector and create more apprenticeship positions across the country.
Eligibility Criteria for Employers and Apprentices
Your organization stands to gain substantial financial benefits through the Apprenticeship Service Program. When you hire a first-year apprentice, you can receive up to $5,000. And if you're hiring from an equity-deserving group then that first-year apprentice can net you as much as $10,000!
So how do you get your hands on this free cash? Glad you asked!
Employer Participant Requirements:
Your business qualifies if you
- Are a small to medium-sized enterprise with fewer than 499 employees.
- Are canadian-owned or a Canadian subsidiary.
- Are providing a minimum 3 month placement for your apprentice.
Apprentice Participant Requirements:
It’s pretty straight forward. There’s no age limit requirements, but they do need to:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person as per the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
- Be legally entitled to work in Canada.
- Have an active apprenticeship agreement with an SME and be in the first year of their apprenticeship.
- Be new to your company.
- NOT be a family member of the ownership, directors, or senior officers of your company.
And in case you were wanting to get the $10K and were wondering what an “Eligible Equity-Deserving Group” was, here’s who fits within this definition:
- Women
- Newcomers to Canada
- Indigenous people
- Members of the 2SLGBTQI+ communities
- Persons with disabilities
Applying for the Program
The Apprenticeship Service Program offers a valuable opportunity for construction businesses in Alberta to access financial incentives to hire first-year apprentices. By participating in the program, employers can contribute to the growth of the skilled trades sector, while developing a skilled and diverse workforce. Givens LLP is here to guide you through the application process and support you in making the most of this grant. Don't miss out on this opportunity to invest in the future of your business and that of new apprentices in our province.
Contact us today to learn more about the Apprenticeship Service Program and how we can assist you in hiring apprentices for your construction company.
