Alberta announces new incentive aimed to help businesses hire new young workers

The Government of Alberta is investing $8 million into a new incentive aimed at hiring young Albertans looking to enter the workforce.

Thursday, the province announced the funding would go into the Alberta Youth Employment Incentive, which provides grants to employers to offset costs associated with hiring, training, and employing youth from age 15-24.

The new initiative is expected to see 2,500 young Albertans be able to enter the workforce, according to the province.

“Young Albertans deserve to be first in line for the kinds of jobs that open doors and build confidence. The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive gives employers a reason to take a chance on youth and help them gain the experience that leads to lifelong careers. This is how we prepare the next generation to succeed in every sector and build a stronger Alberta for tomorrow,” said Premier Danielle Smith in a statement.

The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive will begin in October, and businesses will be eligible for one of two incentive amounts.

• $4,000 for hiring one or two young workers who work a combined 400 hours or more.
• $7,500 for hiring three to five young workers who work a combined 750 hours or more.

With this, the province says it will pay $10 of the hourly wage for young workers at the businesses that apply.

“Investing in young Albertans is instrumental to building a stronger future for everyone. The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive will not only open opportunities for youth but also support fresh, young talent entering the province’s business and professional marketplace. Our goal is to ensure all Albertans, including youth, have the training, skills, and support they need to thrive and be active contributors in Alberta’s workforce,” said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.

The incentive comes as youth unemployment in Canada continues to grow. The youth unemployment rate is now sitting at 17 per cent, according to the province, which pointed to the recent rapid population growth through international and interprovincial migration being a leading factor in fewer jobs being available.

The province added that the Alberta Youth Employment Incentive will be managed by CAREERS, which is a not-for-profit organization that helps young people connect with employment.

“For over 27 years, CAREERS has seen the power of connecting youth with employers to spark meaningful careers. This new incentive is a game-changer – it makes it easier for businesses to hire young people, helps reduce unemployment, and builds the skilled workforce Alberta needs for the future,” said Stefan Rutkowski, president and chief executive officer of CAREERS.