Cybele NegrisAs a part of our core values we are constantly trying to improve and strive for excellence. So when I heard about the new employee training program established by the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, I applied right away.
Essentially, the Workplace Training for Innovation Pilot Program is designed to help BC businesses fund employee training. In fact, up to $1,500 for each employee to a maximum of $5000 worth of training for the whole organization. For small businesses, this is significant.
Small Businesses as well as not-for-profits are eligible but the organizations must be less than 50 employees, have been around for at least 1 year and be in good standing with the BC Corporate Registry. The training is for employees of the organizations (owner/operators and contractors do not qualify; part-time or on call employees do qualify).
Note that the funding cannot apply retroactively to courses already taken; you must get the funding first and complete the required forms first.
The training has to meet the following categories:
- Improve productivity
- Introduce innovative training and workplace strategies to increase long term competitiveness
- Enhance international competitiveness
- Support the introduction of new technology, equipment or work processes
There is some paperwork involved including Participant Intake Forms and Participant Exit Forms, but it is well worth it!
Follow the instructions on the application form carefully. Deadline for application is January 31 2011.
For the non-BC businesses reading this post, bookmark this important link to other Government of Canada programs/loans/grants you can access and apply for: Canada Business – Services for Entreprenuers.