If you’re looking for government funded training programs in Ontario, the options depend on who you are — an individual worker, an employer, or an organization delivering training. As of March 6, 2026, Ontario and the federal government fund retraining, apprenticeships, and workforce upskilling through several major programs, with support ranging from tax credits to $35,000 in direct training funding.
This page is a hub overview. It reflects current program status, including paused and closed intakes, so you don’t waste time applying for funding that isn’t available.
Below are the main government funded training programs Ontario residents and businesses should know, grouped by who can apply.
Better Jobs Ontario is Ontario’s flagship retraining program for laid-off workers and people needing new skills.
What it covers
Funding amounts
Who it’s for
📌 This is one of the most generous government funded training programs in Ontario for individuals.
Employment Ontario is not a grant, but it’s the gateway to most provincial training funding.
What you get
If you’re unsure which training program fits, Employment Ontario is usually your first step.
This is a refundable tax credit you claim when filing your income tax.
Key details
This credit can be combined with Ontario-funded programs in some cases.
Apprentices in Ontario can access both provincial and federal funding.
Active supports
⚠️ Important update:
The federal Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG) ended on March 31, 2025 and is no longer available.
The COJG traditionally helped employers cover third-party training costs for employees.
Current status
Many older articles still list COJG as open. This pause is a key reason to rely on updated sources.
This is one of the few open workforce funding streams right now.
What it funds
Status
Who can apply
Skills Advance Ontario is a newer, sector-based workforce initiative tied to Canada–Ontario trade and labour market priorities.
Focus areas
Many people combine programs:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by Ontario region, applicant type, and industry in seconds.
Applying for paused or closed programs
COJG and the SDF Training Stream are not accepting applications right now.
Assuming training grants are only for students
Many government funded training programs Ontario offers are for mid-career workers and employers.
Missing Employment Ontario referrals
Some funding, like Better Jobs Ontario, requires approval through Employment Ontario first.
Relying on outdated apprenticeship info
The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant ended in 2025, but many blogs still list it.
Q: Are government funded training programs Ontario residents free?
Some are fully funded, while others cover part of the cost. Programs like Better Jobs Ontario can pay tuition and living supports, while tax credits reimburse costs after you pay.
Q: Can employers still get training grants in Ontario?
Yes, but options are limited right now. COJG is paused, while the Skills Development Fund Capital Stream is open for infrastructure-related projects.
Q: Do newcomers qualify for Ontario training programs?
Many programs are open to permanent residents and protected persons. Eligibility depends on residency, work status, and the specific program.
Q: Can I combine federal and Ontario training funding?
In some cases, yes. For example, Better Jobs Ontario funding can be paired with the Canada Training Credit.
Q: Is college or university required?
No. Funded training can include micro-credentials, apprenticeships, and private career colleges approved by Ontario.
Government funded training programs in Ontario change often, and intake status matters as much as eligibility. GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — including Ontario training, skills, and workforce funding — so you can quickly see what matches your business or career profile.
You may also want to explore related Ontario funding topics like Funding Opportunities Ontario, Ontario College and University Funding, and Money from the Ontario Government.
Was this guide helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.