Hiring and keeping skilled apprentices is a challenge for Canada’s electricity sector. The Destination Trade (EHRC) program helps by covering part of your wage costs when you hire senior-level apprentices. If your business supports electricity generation, transmission, or related services, this guide explains how to apply, what you can receive, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Destination Trade – EHRC is a federal wage subsidy program delivered by Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC). It supports third- and fourth-year apprentices by helping small and mid-sized employers offset the cost of work placements.
Key facts you should know:
The goal is simple: help employers create quality work placements while supporting apprentices as they complete their Certificate of Qualification.
Before you apply, check that both your business and your apprentice meet the criteria.
You may qualify if your organization is a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) and your main activity is in the electricity sector, including:
Your apprentice must:
Exact trade eligibility can vary, so confirm with EHRC before submitting your application.
The Destination Trade program provides:
Funding is paid to the employer as a wage subsidy. In most cases, this funding is considered taxable income, so you should confirm this with your accountant.
In some cases, Destination Trade funding may be combined with other apprentice wage subsidies, as long as you follow federal and provincial stacking rules.
If you manage several funding programs, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher helps you filter by province and industry quickly.
The application process is employer-led and managed directly through EHRC.
Check eligibility
Review employer and apprentice criteria on the EHRC website.
Gather your documents
You will need:
Apply to EHRC
Submit your application through EHRC’s program portal or as directed by their team.
Wait for approval before starting the placement
Funding is subject to availability, even if the program is open.
Report on the placement if asked
Some employers may need to confirm the apprentice’s progress or how long they worked.
Applying after the apprentice has finished working
Most wage subsidy programs need approval before or during the placement, not after it ends.
Thinking all trades are covered
Destination Trade focuses on electricity-related jobs. Always check with EHRC to make sure your trade is eligible.
Not following stacking rules
Combining wage subsidies without checking the rules can lead to money being taken back or your application being denied.
Missing updates about funding
The program is open, but funding can run out. Check for updates on the EHRC site.
Q: What is the Destination Trade program by EHRC?
Destination Trade is a federal wage subsidy that supports third- and fourth-year apprentices in the electricity sector. It helps employers reduce wage costs while supporting apprentices to complete their certification.
Q: How much funding does Destination Trade provide?
Employers can receive up to $5,000 per eligible apprentice placement. The exact amount depends on program guidelines and available funding.
Q: Who can apply for Destination Trade funding?
Eligible applicants are small to mid-sized employers operating in electricity generation, transmission, distribution, renewables, or related manufacturing and services.
Q: Is Destination Trade funding taxable?
In most cases, wage subsidies are considered taxable income for employers. You should confirm this with your accountant.
Q: Is the Destination Trade program currently open?
Yes. The program is listed as open, but funding availability may change at any time.
After reviewing the FAQs, remember that GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—see which ones match your business profile.
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