Take Advantage of Funding for Training and Hiring
There are several government funded programs available to employers to help them offset the cost of training existing employees and hiring new employees. We have compiled a quick introduction to funds and resources that are available to Tri-Cities businesses.
Different criteria exists for each of these programs, but a quick phone call can help determine if your business is eligible, as many of the requirements are dependent on the employee or potential hire. Employers who are interested in hiring from disadvantaged groups, like people with disabilities or underemployed workers, can really benefit from these programs.
If you would like assistance in navigating these funding programs please contact Matthew Danchuk at the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce: 604-464-2716 or mdanchuk@tricitieschamber.com.
The Chamber can connect you with an appropriate community case management organization that will assist you in supplying qualified job candidates and applying for wage subsidies, at no cost to the employer.
Funding for Employee Training
The ASPECT Small Business Employee Training Program is focused on helping small businesses to grow the potential of their lower skilled workers (known as “growth employees”) by providing funding of up to $900 per employee for training courses that will enhance their skills and ultimately YOUR business.
Basic eligibility: a registered company of less than 50 employees; an employee who does not have any recognized post secondary accreditation. For more info contact: Gail Finnson at Bowman Employment Services: 604-466-1375 x213 or gfinnson@bowmanemployment.com
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The Workplace Training for Innovation Program is designed to provide eligible employers with funding for employee training in order to: Improve productivity; Support the introduction of new technology, machinery/equipment or work processes; Enhance international competitiveness; Introduce innovative training and workplace strategies. Up to $5000 is available to employers.
Basic eligibility: less than 50 employees in good standing with the BC Corporate Registry and in existence for one year or more. For more info call Chemistry Consulting Group: 1-877-365-5757
Wage Subsidies
The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities can provide a wage subsidy to an employer for an eligible new hire. Accessibility and accommodation expenses that the employer may incur in hiring an eligible new hire with a disability can also be offset by the Fund. Wage subsidy can be provided to train either part-time or full-time employees. Wage subsidy terms are flexible and negotiable.
Basic eligibility: a potential employee must have a permanent disability as a barrier to employment and must apply through the respective Opportunities Fund program. For more info call a Community Coordinator for the Opportunities Fund at the BC Centre for Ability: 604-451-5511
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FutureWorks administers government funded grants for employers hiring eligible candidates through three programs: ScienceLink, JobFit and WorkStart. There is no cost for qualified employers to participate in this program.
Basic eligibility: a potential employee must meet criteria and apply through the respective program. For more info call Future Works: 604-684-4176
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Targeted Wage Subsidy is an employment benefit assists unemployed individuals to secure long term employment by providing direct work experience. There is no cost for qualified employers to participate in this program.
Basic eligibility: a potential employee must meet criteria and apply through the respective program. For more info call Sante Wage Subsidy Services: 604-468-0411
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