NRC IRAP Youth Employment Program

For small and medium-sized businesses looking to strengthen their innovation efforts, bringing in new talent can be a smart way to move projects forward without taking on the full cost alone. The NRC IRAP Youth Employment Program is designed to help Canadian companies hire young professionals who can contribute fresh ideas and practical skills to innovation-focused initiatives. Delivered by the National Research Council of Canada through its Industrial Research Assistance Program, this opportunity supports businesses across the country that are ready to invest in growth through research, technology, and product development.

Through this program, businesses can receive non-repayable funding support to offset a portion of the wages for a young employee working on eligible projects. These roles often focus on areas like research and development, engineering, multimedia, market analysis for new technology-based products, or improving processes and customer services. The intent is not only to advance your internal projects, but also to give students and recent graduates meaningful, hands-on experience in a real business environment.

Participation typically involves working with an NRC IRAP advisor to shape a project that aligns with your innovation goals, then hiring a youth candidate for a defined work term. With applications accepted on an ongoing basis, this program can be a practical option for businesses planning near-term innovation activities and talent needs. Exploring the full details can help you determine whether this wage support aligns with your growth plans.