Canada launches call for proposals for workforce innovation fund

The Government of Canada has opened applications for the new Sectoral Workforce Innovation Fund to support projects addressing skilled labour shortages across key sectors. Workers and employers continue to face pressure from tariffs, labour shortages, supply chain disruptions and broader economic uncertainty.

The fund will support projects such as faster training approaches, micro‑credentials, skills assessments and targeted certification programs. The goal is to help workers prepare for in‑demand occupations while giving employers tools to address ongoing shortages.

Minister Patty Hajdu said it is intended to strengthen the workforce needed to deliver major projects and support long‑term economic growth.

“The new Sectoral Workforce Innovation Fund builds on our commitment to supporting the workers, industries and major projects that will shape Canada’s future,” said Hajdu. “By investing in people today, we are turning opportunity into growth, for workers, for industries, and for a Canada that is stronger and more self‑reliant.”

The fund complements other federal workforce initiatives, including the Workforce Alliances. It uses a co‑investment model with employers and partners contributing alongside the federal government.

According to the report, the SWIF could support projects that help workers transition into sectors such as electric vehicle and battery production, electricity and energy infrastructure, shipbuilding, advanced manufacturing and critical minerals. Statistics Canada reported that 26.9 per cent of businesses expect recruiting skilled employees to be an obstacle over a three‑month period, including 49.5 per cent of construction businesses and 47.4 per cent of manufacturing businesses.