Better Jobs
BETTER JOBS ONTARIO
Better Jobs Ontario is a Government of Ontario program
delivered through Employment Ontario. It provides
financial support to eligible individuals to help them
access skills training for in-demand occupations.
What is the Better Jobs Ontario program?
Better Jobs Ontario is a Government of Ontario program delivered through Employment Ontario. It provides financial support to eligible individuals to help them access skills training
for in-demand occupations.
Better Jobs Ontario aims to help you rejoin the workforce quickly. The program offers funding for both:
- Short-term training programs that take 52 weeks or less to complete, including micro-credential programs
- Longer duration programs that take 2 years or less to complete
You can apply for up to:
- $28,000 for training that is 1 year or less in duration
- $35,000 for programs that are more than 1 year and up to 2 years in duration
Who may be eligible for this program?
1. Laid‑Off & Underemployed Workers
You may qualify if you:
- Have been laid off and are either unemployed or
- Are working a temporary/interim job just to cover costs
- OR are working less than an average of 20 hours per week after a layoff
2. Long‑Term Unemployed from a Low‑Income Household
You can also qualify if:
- You have not been formally laid off, but
- You’ve been unemployed (or working 20 hours/week or less) for six months or more, and
- You are part of a low‑income household
3. People on Income Support Can Still Apply
You can apply even if you are currently receiving or have previously received:
- Employment Insurance (EI)
- Ontario Works (OW)
- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis by Employment Ontario and depends on several factors, including employment history, financial situation, and the demand for the chosen occupation.
What costs are covered under the program?
Better Jobs Ontario can help cover many expenses related to retraining and returning to
work, including:
- Tuition and mandatory fees for approved training programs
- Books, supplies, and materials needed for the program
- Transportation costs to and from training
- A basic living allowance may be provided in some cases, depending on financial need
and program approval by Employment Ontario. - Childcare costs for participants with children
- Disability-related costs to support participation in training
- Living away from home costs if training requires relocation
- Other necessary expenses directly related to completing your training program
Funding approval is not guaranteed and is determined solely by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development through Employment Ontario.
How can I apply?
To apply for Better Jobs Ontario, you must work with an Employment Ontario
service provider. These staff are trained to:
- Help you decide if the program is right for you
- Guide you through the application process
- Assist you in completing and submitting your application
Steps to Apply:
1. Find an Employment
Ontario service provider Locate a provider in your community and book an appointment.
2.Meet with an employment counsellor
You will discuss your employment history, career goals, and training needs.
3.Complete an assessment and action plan
The counsellor will help determine if Better Jobs Ontario is suitable for you
and create an employment action plan.
4.Research training programs
- You will identify suitable training options that lead to in-demand jobs.
5.Prepare and complete your application
With support from your counsellor, you will:
- Fill out the application form
- Gather required documents (education, employment history, income,
etc.) - Provide details about your chosen training program
6.Submit your application
Your service provider will submit the complete application package to the
Ministry for review.
What documents Required to Apply
When applying for Better Jobs Ontario, you will need to provide documents to support your application. These may include:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s licence, passport)
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Proof of residency in Ontario
- Employment history (resume, record of employment, or job separation details)
- Proof of unemployment or underemployment
Job search records (if applicable) - Education and training history (transcripts, certificates, diplomas)
Information about your chosen training program, including:
- Program outline
- Cost breakdown
- Start and end dates
Household income information, such as:
- Recent pay stubs
- Employment Insurance (EI) statements
- Ontario Works (OW) or ODSP statements (if applicable)
- Notice of Assessment (NOA) from CRA
Can I work while receiving funding?
Yes, you can work while receiving Better Jobs Ontario funding, but there are important conditions.
- You must still meet all requirements of your training program
- Your studies must remain your primary focus
- You must follow the terms of your Better Jobs Ontario Participant Agreement
How can CACC help?
At CACC, we offer a variety of training programs that may meet the eligibility criteria for Better Jobs Ontario.
Our team is here to support you throughout your journey by:
- Providing eligible training programs aligned with in-demand careers
- Helping you choose the right program based on your career goals and background
- Supplying required documents such as program outlines, cost breakdowns, and schedules for your application
- Guiding you through the application process in coordination with your Employment Ontario counsellor
- Offering flexible learning options to help you balance training with your personal responsibilities
- Supporting your success during training with experienced instructors and student support services
At CACC, we are committed to helping you gain the skills and qualifications needed to
successfully re-enter the workforce.
Start your journey by choosing your future career training program at Canadian All Care College, and apply for Better Jobs Ontario funding to support your education, subject to Employment Ontario eligibility requirements.
