Canada invests $430M in apprenticeship training through expanded UTIP program
The Government of Canada is opening three new funding streams for organizations to expand training capacity, introduce innovative recruitment approaches, and purchase equipment for skilled trades programs.
Govgrant newsroomOctober 15, 2026 · 2 min read- Total investment
- Over $430 million over five years
- Program
- Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP)
- Infrastructure expansion deadline
- Expression of Interest by November 12, 2026
- Innovation proposals deadline
- December 17, 2026
- Equipment funding increase
- Maximum contribution rate raised from 50% to 70%
- Delivered by
- Employment and Social Development Canada
What was announced
The Government of Canada has launched a major funding initiative under the Union Training and Innovation Program to address skills shortages in Canada's skilled trades. The investment of over $430 million over five years is divided into three distinct funding streams, each targeting different aspects of apprenticeship training and infrastructure development.
Between 2024 and 2033, Canada is projected to have more than 1.4 million job openings in skilled trades. This announcement represents an effort to ensure training capacity and quality can meet that demand.
Three funding streams now open
Organizations can pursue funding through three separate applications, each with different timelines and purposes.
- Infrastructure Expansion: Submit an Expression of Interest by November 12 for projects launching in Spring 2027. The Government of Canada is investing $197.2 million over five years in capital infrastructure projects.
- Innovation: Submit applications through a Call for Proposals by December 17. This stream, worth $135 million over five years, supports new approaches to attract pre-apprentices, help apprentices progress toward certification, and enable journeypersons to upgrade skills.
- Training Equipment: Apply at any time through an open-ended Call for Proposals. The government is investing $100 million over five years and has temporarily increased the maximum contribution rate from 50% to 70% to help organizations manage rising equipment and material costs.
Who can apply
The program is designed for organizations working in apprenticeship training and the skilled trades. Detailed eligibility requirements and application information are available on the Union Training and Innovation Program page of Canada.ca.
What comes next
Businesses and organizations interested in any of the three funding streams should review the detailed eligibility and application requirements on the official program website. Those pursuing infrastructure projects should prepare their Expression of Interest submissions before November 12, while innovation applicants have until December 17.
Additional apprenticeship supports are available beyond UTIP, including loans, tax credits and deductions, Employment Insurance benefits, and support for the Red Seal Program. Information on careers in skilled trades and training pathways is available at Canada.ca/skilled-trades.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding can an organization receive for training equipment?
The source does not specify maximum contribution amounts by category. It states that the government has increased the maximum contribution rate for equipment purchases from 50% to 70%, but the actual dollar limits for each stream are not provided in the announcement. Organizations should consult the official Union Training and Innovation Program page for specific funding caps.
Can organizations apply for funding in multiple streams?
The source does not clarify whether an organization can submit applications across multiple funding streams. Organizations should check the detailed eligibility requirements on the official program page or contact Employment and Social Development Canada for guidance on this question.
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