Funding opportunities

It's never been more affordable to hire a co-op student.

There are a number of grants, tax credits and funding programs that subsidize, and sometimes completely cover, the cost of your hire. Browse the funding opportunities below to learn more.

Funding during the COVID-19 pandemic:

• In an effort to support small businesses through these unprecedented times, the Government of Canada recently released the Emergency Wage Subsidy. This program offers up to 75% wage coverage for up to 12 weeks. Read more on the Government of Canada website.

• The Government of Canada's Student Work Placement Program has announced:
1) "net new" hire restrictions have been removed
2) temporary changes to some eligibility requirements to increase flexibility*
Learn more about how these changes can benefit you.

• Changes to the Canada Summer Jobs program will help small businesses hire and keep the workers they need so they can continue to deliver essential services. Read more about these changes.

Please note: some exceptions may apply if you will be engaging a student as an independent contractor.

*Update for applications for Spring 2021: The Government of Canada will not be able to confirm whether these changes will be extended beyond April 30, 2021 until after March 30, 2021. All applicants should be aware that prior SWPP funding and eligibility requirements will be in effect until this announcement. Learn more here.

Information last updated February 10, 2021

Did you know?

The Ontario Co-operative Education Tax Credit allows employers to claim 25% of eligible expenditures on salaries and wages (30% for small businesses). The maximum credit for each work placement is $3,000. Similar tax incentives are available in other provinces.