What the Ontario Job Grant supports
The program helps eligible employers pay for third-party training that upgrades the skills of existing employees or supports eligible new hires. Employers choose the trainees and the skills that address their workforce needs.
Ontario states that eligible training costs can be supported up to $10,000 per trainee, with additional flexibility for some small employers.
Employer fit
Individual private-sector and non-profit employers may be eligible when they meet the program requirements. Employers need an Ontario physical location and must have carried on business there for at least one year.
The proposed training must be delivered in Ontario, completed within 52 weeks of its start date, and delivered by an eligible third-party training provider.
Funding structure
Employers with 100 or more employees generally contribute at least half of training costs. Employers with fewer than 100 employees generally contribute at least one-sixth.
For eligible small employers training new hires who were previously unemployed, Ontario describes funding up to $15,000 per trainee and the possibility of 100% funding. Program rules and approvals control the final amount.
What to prepare before applying
A strong application connects a defined business need, the right trainees, a compliant training provider, a realistic training plan, and complete supporting documentation.
Training must not begin before approval. Applications are assessed by the ministry; meeting the requirements does not guarantee funding.
How we can help
We help employers clarify eligibility, organize the training plan and provider information, and prepare a practical, evidence-led application strategy. We are an independent advisory firm and are not the program administrator. Canadian Funding Partners’ advisory fee is not an eligible or reimbursable training cost under the Ontario Job Grant and is quoted separately.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Canada-Ontario Job Grant?
COJG is an Ontario program that helps employers pay for short-term training delivered by an approved third-party provider to existing employees or eligible new hires.
Who is eligible to apply for COJG?
Employers apply directly — not employees or trainers. The applicant must be licensed to operate in Ontario, comply with employment and health and safety legislation, and contribute its required share of the training cost.
Does the employer have to contribute to the cost?
Yes. COJG is cost-shared: the employer contributes a portion of eligible training costs, with the required share varying by employer size. Small employers may also be able to count wages during training toward their contribution.
What training qualifies?
Training must be delivered by an eligible third-party trainer and lead to a credential or record of completion. Training an employer is already legally required to provide is not eligible.
When should an employer apply?
Applications are submitted before the training starts. Approval and the signed agreement must be in place before costs are incurred.