Call for proposals launched to help train workers for in-demand sectors

GATINEAU, QUE.—A call for proposals has been launched for projects that will help connect workers with training to access jobs in in-demand sectors.

Organizations have until March 18 to apply for funding under the new Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP).

Priority will be placed on projects that support underrepresented groups, including women, people with disabilities, Indigenous people, racialized Canadians, newcomers and LGBTQ2 Canadians, indicates a release.  

Projects will be funded under three priority areas: building talent for the clean economy; supporting demand-driven solutions for sectors hardest hit by the pandemic and those key to recovery; and investing in the health care sector.

Successful projects will include at least one of the following eligible activities:

• Training and reskilling to help workers gain skills for the changing needs of industries, including helping workers seize opportunities for in-demand jobs in growing sectors;
• providing solutions for employers to develop a skilled and resilient workforce and workplace;
• offering creative solutions to develop and implement new ways of addressing labour market issues in key sectors and/or occupations; and
• establishing sector-wide standards and tools to help all stakeholders identify and address specific skills, needs and trends.

The SWSP, which was first announced in Budget 2021, builds on the success of the Sectoral Initiatives Program, with an expanded scope for large-scale projects that offer a broader range of supports to train workers and help employers, especially from small and medium-sized businesses, develop solutions.