Government of Canada to open new intake period for Youth Employment and Skills Program

Jan 10, 2025

Ottawa, Ontario – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Today, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced that applications will open for the Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP) on January 27, 2025. Supported by an investment of approximately $13.5 million, YESP is an initiative aimed at helping young Canadians access employment opportunities and gain valuable work experience in the agricultural sector, while contributing to the growth of the agricultural community here in Canada.

The agriculture and agri-food sector is a major contributor to the Canadian economy. This funding will help address some of the pressing labour issues the sector faces by supporting approximately 1,200 jobs and by fostering the next generation of agriculture and agri-food workers.

Eligible applicants include producers, agri-businesses, industry associations, provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous organizations and research facilities. Applications from Indigenous employers will be prioritized for the 2025-2026 program year.

Together, we are building a future where all young Canadians can gain work experience in the agriculture and agri-food sector and help them to access future employment opportunities in the industry.

Source : Canada.ca

Video: Syngenta Ag Stories - Robyn McKee, Government and Industry Relations Manager

Syngenta Ag Stories - Robyn McKee, Government and Industry Relations Manager.

You don't need to grow up on a farm to build a career in Canadian agriculture. Robyn grew up in Richmond, Ontario - not on a farm, but in a community shaped by them.

Now she works at the intersection of policy, innovation, and the people who grow our food. Her drive? Making sure the right people understand what Canadian agriculture needs to thrive.

Her message to the next generation: "Agriculture today is full of possibilities - science, technology, business, communications, and policy. You're helping grow the food we eat, and it's hard to think of many things more impactful than that."