The summer solstice might not occur until June 20th, but the majority of college and university students, both graduating and returning, will start looking for jobs in February, and most hope to start working by May 1st.
If you think you could use some additional hands this summer, but don’t feel you have the resources to hire someone, don’t throw in the towel. Both the government of Ontario and the Government of Canada offer a number of programs designed to encourage small businesses to hire summer students, youth interns or apprentices.
Deadlines for applying to summer funding programs usually range from January to March, so now’s a good time to start the process. Programs vary in the type and amount of funding offered, which may be in the form of full or partial wage subsidies, training programs and/or tax incentives. Make sure to confirm the deadlines and application criteria with the program sponsor well in advance of your projected hiring dates.
Information on the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment Strategy (YES) Programs, including Career Focus, Skills Link and Summer Work Experience, as well as YES Internship programs can be found online at: http://www1.servicecanada.gc.ca/en/epb/yi/yep/newprog/yesprograms.shtml
Government of Ontario funding program information, including Job Connect/Summer Jobs Service, Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit and Employer Signing Bonus, as well as Ontario Targeted Wage Subsidy and Job Creation Partnerships programs can be found online at: http://www.sbe.gov.on.ca/ontcan/sbe/en/program_guide_en.jsp
If you have questions or concerns on funding applications, call or visit your local Service Canada (1-800-O-CANADA) or Service Ontario (1-800-268-7095) Centre for assistance.
Happy hiring!
Article prepared by:
Keanan Hunt
Small Business Consultant
RCCFDC | 
