Entering the workforce is a vital first step toward building a strong, lifelong career. Alberta especially feels the impact as the result of rapid population growth through international immigration and the highest interprovincial migration of any other province. Young Albertans deserve access to jobs that help them learn, grow, and contribute.
Recently, the Alberta government initiated efforts to soften the reliance on temporary foreign workers by investing $8 million into the Alberta Youth Employment Incentive in order to spur 1,000 businesses to hire 2,500 young people.
Alberta’s government is providing $8 million for the new Alberta Youth Employment Incentive, which provides grants to employers to offset costs associated with hiring, training, and employing youth from ages 15 to 24.
Beginning in October 2025, employers have been eligible for one of two incentive amounts. Those who hire one to two young workers for a combined total of at least 400 hours, will be eligible to receive $4,000. Employers who hire three to five young workers with a combined total of at least 750 hours, will be eligible to receive $7,500. Through this initiative, Alberta’s government is helping pay $10 of the hourly wage for young workers.
The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive will be managed by CAREERS – a long-standing not-for-profit organization that helps young people connect with employment. CAREERS will be responsible for delivering grants, determining eligibility, and ensuring employers have the information they need. Applications by employers can be made through the CAREERS website.
Additionally, the provincial government is developing a digital badge for youth who have worked a minimum of 200 hours and pass a skills-verified employer assessment. This badge can be highlighted on resumes, helping businesses know they are hiring a young person who has demonstrated and developed meaningful skills in a workplace.
Please contact my constituency office should you need assistance with constituency related matters.
MLA – Calgary West Mike Ellis proudly serves the following Communities: Aspen Estates, Aspen Woods, Christie Park, Discovery Ridge, Signal Hill, Springbank Hill, Strathcona
