Apprenticeship Grants in Canada have long supported trades workers aiming to earn while they learn. While popular programs like the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG) and Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG) ended in 2025, apprentices across Canada still have access to financial supports that make training more affordable, including loans, Employment Insurance (EI) benefits, and provincial incentives.
Whether you’re submitting final documentation for federal grants or exploring alternative programs, understanding your options is critical. Here’s everything you need to navigate the evolving apprenticeship funding landscape in 2025 and beyond.
What Happened to the Apprenticeship Grants in Canada?
The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG) and Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG), which provided direct financial assistance to apprentices, officially ended on March 31, 2025. If you began an application before this deadline, you still have until March 31, 2026, to submit documents for incomplete applications.
Previously, the programs offered:
- AIG: $1,000 per year (up to $2,000) for completing the first and second years of an apprenticeship.
- ACG: $2,000 upon finishing a certified apprenticeship program.
Although these grants are no longer available for new applications, alternative funding opportunities remain for both new and continuing apprentices.
Current Financial Support Options for Apprentices
Even without federal AIG and ACG programs, there are several ways to secure funding for your technical training and on-the-job apprenticeship periods:
1. Canada Apprentice Loan (CAL)
The Canada Apprentice Loan is a government-backed interest-free loan designed to help apprentices cover their expenses during technical training periods.
- Borrow up to $20,000 interest-free.
- No payments required while you’re in training.
- Repayment starts six months after your training ends.
2. Employment Insurance (EI) Benefits for Apprentices
Qualified apprentices can also access Employment Insurance (EI) benefits during their in-class training. These benefits provide income support if you’re temporarily unemployed while completing mandatory technical training.
- Receive weekly payments based on your previous income.
- Apply alongside your Canada Apprentice Loan application for efficiency.
3. Provincial Apprenticeship Support Programs
Each province offers additional funding specifically tailored to local employment strategies. Below are a few available programs:
Ontario Achievement Incentive Program
- Up to $17,000 for apprentices, including completion bonuses.
- Targets underrepresented groups such as women or Indigenous apprentices.
British Columbia Training Tax Credit
- Up to $500 extra per level for Level 1 and Level 2 apprentices.
- Provides additional incentives for journeyperson certification.
Grant Amounts Comparison Table
| Funding Program | Amount | Eligibility Requirements | Repayable? | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Apprentice Loan (CAL) | Up to $20,000 | Registered apprentice in Red Seal trade | Yes | Active |
| EI Benefits for Technical Training | Varies | Unemployed during training | No | Active |
| Ontario Achievement Incentive | Up to $17,000 | Registered apprentice in Ontario | No | Active |
| BC Training Tax Credit | $500–$2,500 | Red Seal apprentices | No | Active |
| AIG (Historical) | $1,000/year (max $2,000) | Apprentices completing 1st/2nd year | No | Ended |
| ACG (Historical) | $2,000 | Completion of apprenticeship program | No | Ended |
FAQs About Apprenticeship Funding
Many apprentices have questions when it comes to navigating funding options. Here are the answers to some common concerns:
Do I need to repay grants or loans?
Federal loans like CAL must be repaid starting six months after you finish your training. Grants, however, are non-repayable.
Can I combine multiple funding programs?
Yes. Apprentices are encouraged to use a mix of provincial and federal supports to maximize financial assistance.
What happens if I don’t complete my apprenticeship?
Loans will still need to be repaid. Eligibility for grants from programs like Ontario Achievement Incentive depends on completion milestones.
See Current Apprenticeship Grant Deadlines
Federal AIG and ACG programs may have ended, but provincial and federal alternatives remain accessible. Use these resources to explore the latest deadlines and opportunities:
- Skilled Trades Ontario: Updates on the Ontario Achievement Incentive.
- Skilled Trades BC: Tax credit application guidance and deadlines.
- Government of Canada: Information on Canada Apprentice Loans and EI benefits.
Apprenticeships are an investment in yourself—and with these funding programs, you don’t have to take that journey alone. Start planning your financial support today!
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