Many industries in British Columbia face the same challenge: not enough workers with the right skills. The Sector Labour Market Partnerships Program helps address this by funding industry‑led projects that tackle labour shortages at a sector level. WorkBC delivers this program. It helps employers, industry associations, and training partners work together across BC.
If your organization is planning a workforce strategy that benefits an entire sector—not just one business—this funding may be a fit.
The Sector Labour Market Partnerships Program (SLMP) supports projects that respond to current or emerging labour market needs in BC. Funding is non‑repayable and tied to approved project costs.
You can apply if you are leading a partnership that represents a sector or sub‑sector in British Columbia, such as:
Individual for‑profit businesses usually cannot apply alone. SLMP expects projects to benefit a broad group of employers and workers.
Funded projects usually fall into one or more of these categories:
Sector‑wide workforce planning
Labour market studies, skills gap analysis, or workforce strategies.
Industry‑led skills development initiatives
Training frameworks, competency models, or career pathway development.
Labour market research and pilot projects
Testing new approaches to recruitment, retention, or upskilling.
Projects must clearly show how they respond to a labour market issue affecting the sector, not just a single organization.
There is no fixed maximum funding amount. Approved funding depends on:
WorkBC reviews budgets case‑by‑case.
Applying for SLMP takes more planning than most small business grants. Partner coordination and clear project design are important.
Before applying, you need committed partners. This often includes:
Letters of support are expected to show sector buy‑in.
Your application must explain:
Use data if possible, such as industry reports or regional labour statistics.
Outline:
Include only eligible and reasonable costs. Funding is tied to approved expenses and milestones.
Applications are submitted through WorkBC and may involve:
Approval timelines depend on project complexity and available funding.
Intake periods for SLMP can change. Always check the WorkBC website for the most current status before applying.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you see if sector‑based workforce programs in BC fit your organization and partners before you invest time in a full application.
SLMP is not for individual company training. Lack of sector representation often leads to rejection.
Applications that say “we need more workers” without data or analysis are weak. Be specific about the issue.
Trying to solve every workforce issue at once can lead to unclear outcomes and budget problems.
Verbal support is not enough. WorkBC expects clear evidence of collaboration.
Q: Is the Sector Labour Market Partnerships Program repayable?
No. SLMP funding is non‑repayable if project terms are met. Tax treatment may vary depending on your organization.
Q: Can multiple organizations apply together on one application?
Yes. Multi‑partner applications are expected. One organization acts as the lead applicant.
Q: How long does the approval process take?
Timelines vary. Larger or more complex projects take longer due to review and clarification steps.
Q: Can for‑profit businesses benefit from SLMP funding?
Yes, but usually as partners or participants—not as sole applicants. The project must benefit the wider sector.
Q: Is the program always open for applications?
Intake periods for the Sector Labour Market Partnerships Program can change. Check the WorkBC website for the most up‑to‑date status.
GrantHub tracks active workforce and training grant programs across Canada—check which ones match your sector, province, and partnership structure.
If you are planning a sector‑wide workforce project in British Columbia, start by confirming that your partnership and goals fit the Sector Labour Market Partnerships Program. Early clarity saves time and improves approval odds.
For more BC-specific resources, see How to Use Small Business BC to Start or Grow a Business and What expenses are eligible under regional economic development grants?. GrantHub helps you compare workforce and training programs across BC so you can focus on the ones that fit your project best.
Was this article 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.