OTA has confirmed that the newly established Canada – Ontario Jobs Grant is available to the trucking industry, from administrative staff to shop workers and drivers.
The COJG provides a source of funding for employer-driven training initiatives. The grant provides direct financial support for employers who wish to purchase training for their workforce. This allows employers to choose the individuals they would like to have trained, and the training that meets their workforce development needs. This program is intended to support employers in taking a greater role in workforce development. In turn, the cost of training is shared between employers and the government with large carriers being required to contribute one-third of the training costs (up to $5000) with government covering the remaining two-thirds (up to $10,000). There are also provisions for smaller employers with 50 or less employees to contribute their portion in both cash and kind. Please note that many sectors and employers are expected to take advantage of this program, and that applications for funds will be processed on a first come first serve basis.
For more information, OTA members can contact jonathan.blackham@ontruck.org