Ontario Launches $74M Skills Development Fund to Expand Training for In-Demand Trades
TORONTO — The Ontario government has announced a new round of funding for its Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Stream, committing over $74 million to bolster training facilities across the province. The initiative aims to expand opportunities for workers in high-demand trades, including construction, manufacturing, technology, and health care.
Launched in 2021, the Skills Development Fund has already established itself as a cornerstone of Ontario’s efforts to train over one million workers for growing industries. This latest round introduces improvements designed to enhance access and accelerate application processes for businesses and training providers.
“Our government has an ambitious plan to build Ontario – from new housing that families can call home, to highways and public transit connecting our communities, to clean energy projects powering our economy,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
The 2024 Capital Stream builds on the program’s success in 2023 with a streamlined application process and the addition of a SEED pathway. This new pathway assists applicants with upfront costs like design drawings and technical plans, addressing a gap for smaller organizations that may lack in-house expertise. The fund now accepts proposals year-round to ensure faster reviews and approvals.
This funding is part of the province’s larger $1.4 billion investment in skills development. The initiative aligns with Ontario’s push to meet the demand for skilled workers in sectors critical to economic growth, infrastructure development, and community connectivity.
The Capital Stream offers support to build, expand, and retrofit training facilities, ensuring workers have access to state-of-the-art resources as they prepare for rewarding careers.
As Ontario grows, the Skills Development Fund continues to play a vital role in strengthening the province’s workforce and economy, equipping residents with the tools they need to succeed in dynamic and essential industries.
For businesses and training providers interested in applying, more information is available on the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development website.
