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By Alice McFarlane

Youth Employment and Skills Program

Ag Canada to provide funds for youth employment

Mar 9, 2026 | 4:05 PM

Support is coming for young Canadians across the country to gain valuable hands-on experience in the agriculture and agri-food sector. 

The federal government is providing $27 million to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s (AAFC) Youth Employment and Skills Program. 

It’s part of the government’s broader Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), focused on helping young Canadians gain work experience and build careers.  

The goal of YESP is to encourage agriculture and agri-food employers to hire youth aged 15 to 30 for work experience. It also encourages them to hire youth facing barriers to employment, including but not limited to Indigenous youth, youth with disabilities, and youth living in rural or remote regions.  

Funding is available for up to 50 per cent of wages and benefits for general applicants, and up to 80 per cent for Indigenous employers or employers hiring youth facing barriers.  

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AAFC Minister Heath MacDonald said supporting young Canadians as they build their careers in agriculture is an investment in the country’s future.  

“By opening doors to meaningful experiences in this essential sector, we help the next generation gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive,” MacDonald said. “The investment will strengthen our rural communities, support innovation, and ensure the continued success of Canadian agriculture.”   

Applications for the 2026–27 program year will be accepted until May 4.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com