The federal government will invest $27 million into the Youth Employment and Skills Program
The federal government is investing in the future ag workforce.
On March 5 at the Atlantic Council Cereals and Oilseeds conference, Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald announced $27 million over two years in AAFC’s Youth Employment and Skills Program.
This program, originally launched in 2019, helps employers in the agriculture and agri-food industries hire workers between 15 and 30 by contributing up to $14,000 for employee wages and benefits.
An additional $5,000 is available for participants who relocate or are facing employment barriers.
Since the program launched, it has helped more than 6,200 young Canadians find work in agriculture.
“By opening doors to meaningful experiences in this essential sector, we help the next generation gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive,” the minister said in a statement. “This investment will strengthen our rural communities, support innovation, and ensure the continued success of Canadian agriculture.”
Past participants have worked in multiple capacities in ag.
These experiences included managing livestock, cultivating wheat in the Prairies, refurbishing farm equipment, and building greenhouses, a government website says.
Applications for the 2026-27 program year are open now until May 4.
If you are or you know a young person looking for work in the ag or food spaces, Farms.com can help you find an opportunity.
Be sure to check out AgCareers.com or CareersInFood.com for the latest job openings.