People & Talent Program — Workforce Development Stream

Finding and retaining skilled workers can be a real challenge for organizations across Northern Ontario, especially when budgets are tight and roles require meaningful training. The People & Talent Program — Workforce Development Stream is designed to ease that pressure by helping employers bring in interns for full-time, year-long placements that build both organizational capacity and local talent. Delivered by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation on behalf of the Government of Ontario, the program supports businesses, not-for-profits, municipalities, and Indigenous communities operating in the region.

Through this stream, employers can receive significant wage support to offset the cost of hiring an intern, with funding of up to about $35,000 per position to help cover salary and mandatory employment-related costs. For businesses, the program typically covers up to half of the intern’s wages, while public and non-profit organizations may receive a higher contribution. The focus is on meaningful roles that provide hands-on experience and direct supervision, making it well suited for organizations looking to develop future employees while advancing real projects.

The program is currently accepting applications and is particularly valuable for Northern Ontario organizations planning ahead for workforce development. For employers considering whether an internship could strengthen their team, exploring the full program details can help clarify fit, timing, and next steps.