Second Career Program

Career disruption can hit fast, whether it’s a layoff, a prolonged job search, or the need to retrain for work that’s actually in demand. Ontario residents facing this kind of transition may find meaningful support through the Second Career Program, now delivered under Better Jobs Ontario. Backed by the Government of Ontario, this initiative is designed to help people get back into the workforce by covering the real costs of skills training, not just tuition.

The program supports both short, focused training programs that can be completed within a year and longer programs that extend up to two years, including micro-credentials and post-secondary options. Depending on the length of training, funding can reach close to $30,000 for shorter programs and rise to roughly the mid-$30,000 range for longer ones. Beyond classroom costs, the support can also help with books, supplies, transportation, and even a basic living allowance, making it easier to focus on training without overwhelming financial pressure. In some situations, extra help may be available for needs like childcare, disability-related supports, or language and essential skills training.

Second Career Program funding is non-repayable and tailored to individual circumstances, with applications handled through Employment Ontario service providers. For anyone in Ontario exploring a realistic path back into stable employment, learning more about how Better Jobs Ontario works can be a practical next step.