OTTAWA – The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, has announced that applications will open for the Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP) on Jan. 27, 2025.
Supported by an investment of approximately $13.5 million, YESP is an initiative aimed at helping young Canadians access employment opportunities and gain valuable work experience in the agricultural sector, while contributing to the growth of the agricultural community here in Canada.
“The Youth Employment and Skills Program is more than just an employment program – it’s an investment in the future of our agriculture and agri-food sector,” said Minister MacAulay, in making the announcement. “This program helps employers meet their staffing needs, while giving our young people some support to get their foot in the door – or onto the field – and pursue a career in agriculture. I encourage folks to take advantage of this vitally important program.”
The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth spoke of how the investment in Canada’s young people does more than just give them opportunities.
“To build their careers, achieve their goals, and enhance their quality of life, young Canadians depend on meaningful work,” said Ien. “Through the YESP, we’re investing in their potential and providing the support they need to confidently shape their futures within the agriculture and agri-food industry. When young people have access to the opportunities they deserve, they not only thrive individually but also strengthen our communities and Canada’s economy.”
The agriculture and agri-food sector is a major contributor to the Canadian economy. This funding will help address some of the pressing labour issues the sector faces by supporting approximately 1,200 jobs and by fostering the next generation of agriculture and agri-food workers.
Eligible applicants include producers, agri-businesses, industry associations, provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous organizations and research facilities. Applications from Indigenous employers will be prioritized for the 2025-2026 program year.
The program seeks to provide work experience for young Canadians in the agriculture and agri-food sector and help them to access future employment opportunities in the industry.
The YESP supports agriculture employers with the cost of hiring Canadian youth with an additional focus on those who face employment barriers. Employers can apply between Jan. 27 and Feb. 24, 2025, for their application to be considered. The program offers support for up to 50% of the cost of salaries and benefits, up to a maximum of $14,000, to agriculture and agri-food employers hiring Canadian youth.
Since the YESP began, approximately 6,200 youth have been employed in agricultural related organizations from every province and territory. There have also been nearly 2,000 youth facing barriers employed through the program since its inception in 2019.
