Ontario’s $260M investment in Skills Development Fund aims to tackles labour shortage
Hoping to address Ontario’s labour shortage, the provincial government is investing up to $260 million in the Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream. The funding, announced in Kitchener on July 22, 2024, marks the largest round since the SDF’s launch in 2021, bringing the total investment to $1.4 billion.
Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini says it’s about training the next generation to be job ready.
Premier Doug Ford highlighted the initiative’s aim to connect workers in Kitchener and beyond to high-paying jobs, particularly in manufacturing, construction, and technology sectors. “Our government’s investments in the Skills Development Fund are helping Ontarians secure better jobs and tackle the labour shortage,” said Ford.
That message was echoed by Piccini who tells us this investment underscores the provinces commitment to better training, better jobs and bigger paycheques.
The fifth round of the SDF Training Stream will open on July 29, focusing on recruiting, training, and upskilling workers. Eligible organizations include employers, training providers, and community groups.
Piccini says they’re working to train people for some of the best paying jobs out there.
“The Skills Development Fund has been a game changer for the construction industry,” said Vice President, Ontario for the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA). “The funds have enabled innovative training partnerships, pathways and programs that have served to attract and support many new participants into the skilled trades. PCA members are pleased to partner with CLAC, as their SDF funding allows young people the chance to explore rewarding careers in the skilled trades and assists in mentoring apprentices so they can complete and advance their pathway to becoming a licensed journeyperson.”
(Written by: J. Goden)