Ontario Job Grant (formerly Canada-Ontario Job Grant)
The Canada-Ontario Job Grant (COJG) has been renamed the Ontario Job Grant (OJG). As of 2026, Spark Employment Services no longer administers this program. Applications are now managed directly by the Ontario government through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
Apply NowWhat is the Ontario Job Grant?
The Ontario Job Grant helps eligible employers invest in workforce training by providing funding to offset the cost of skills development for new and existing employees.
The program allows employers to:
- Train current employees to upgrade their skills
- Provide training for newly hired employees
- Choose the training that best meets their business needs
- Work with an approved third-party training provider
Funding may cover up to $10,000 per trainee, with additional funding available in certain circumstances for small employers hiring unemployed individuals. Eligibility and funding amounts are determined by the Province of Ontario.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are submitted by employers, not individuals.
Eligible applicants generally include private-sector businesses and non-profit organizations operating in Ontario that meet the program requirements. Individuals seeking training cannot apply directly.
Questions about
How much funding is available?
Eligible employers may receive funding of up to $10,000 per trainee to help cover eligible training costs.
Small employers training and hiring an unemployed individual may be eligible for up to $15,000 per trainee and may not be required to contribute toward the training costs. Funding is subject to program eligibility, approval and available provincial funding.
What types of training may be eligible?
Funding is generally intended for short-term training provided by an eligible third-party trainer. Training should help employees develop job-related skills that meet the employer’s workforce needs.
Employers should review the current Ontario Job Grant guidelines before selecting a course or training provider.
Can employees choose their own training and apply?
No. The employer must identify the training need, select the training and submit the application. Employees can participate in approved training but cannot apply independently.
Can training begin before the application is approved?
Employers should not begin training or make non-refundable training payments until they have received approval from the Ontario Job Grant program.
Submitting an application does not guarantee that funding will be approved.
Does the employer need to contribute toward the training costs?
Employer contributions depend on the size of the organization and the circumstances of the training. In most cases, employers are expected to contribute a portion of the eligible costs.
Small employers hiring and training an unemployed individual may qualify for enhanced funding.
How long does the application process take?
Processing times can vary depending on the application, the proposed training and whether additional documentation is required.
Employers should apply well before their preferred training start date and allow enough time for the application to be reviewed.
How to Apply
The Ontario Job Grant accepts applications throughout the year.
To apply:
- Review the program eligibility requirements.
- Develop a training plan with an approved third-party training provider.
- Complete and submit the online Ontario Job Grant application.
- Await review and approval from the Ministry before training begins.
Applications are assessed on an ongoing basis and must meet all program eligibility requirements.
Apply Online
For complete program details, eligibility requirements, application guidelines, and to submit an application, visit:
