Work in Canada
Manitoba Launches $1.1 Million First Jobs Fund to Empower Youth
The Manitoba government has taken a major step to support youth employment by investing $1.1 million in the First Jobs Fund. This initiative aims to help young individuals gain meaningful work experience, develop crucial skills, and build confidence to secure future job opportunities.
The program is designed to assist youth aged 15 to 29 who face employment barriers, ensuring they can access training and opportunities in key industries. With grants of up to $225,000 per organization, the First Jobs Fund supports six selected programs that offer hands-on job experience.
Organizations Benefiting from the First Jobs Fund
The initiative will provide financial support to six organizations working across various industries, including skilled trades, technology, and aviation. These programs focus on paid work experience, job training, and career-building opportunities for individuals aged 15 to 29.
- Urban Transition Centre will receive $225,000 to run a 17-week pre-apprenticeship program in heat and frost insulating, specifically for 16 Indigenous youth.
- Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM) has been allocated $94,857 to support its Youth Employment Program, helping four newcomer youth build job skills and workplace readiness.
- Manitoba Aviation Council will get $176,173 to provide 26 northern youth with introductory training in aviation operations.
- Manitoba Aviation Council will also receive $224,708 for its Aviation Pilot Career Pathway Program, offering 13 youth flight experience, aviation training, and job placements.
- Tech Manitoba has been granted $108,771 to assist eight Indigenous and newcomer students enrolled in IT programs at the University College of the North.
- Dexterra Community Initiatives will use its $222,092 funding for the Outland Youth Employment Program, a six-week summer program designed for 29 Indigenous youth to gain hands-on work experience in land-based jobs.
Expanding Opportunities for Youth
The First Jobs Fund prioritizes projects that provide paid work experience in high-demand sectors. Programs focus on equipping youth with industry-relevant skills, ensuring they are prepared to enter the workforce with confidence.
For example, the Manitoba Aviation Council’s initiatives aim to make aviation careers more accessible, providing participants with hands-on training and flight experience. Similarly, Tech Manitoba’s IT support programs equip students with sought-after technical skills, opening doors to future employment.
Building a Stronger Workforce
This initiative reflects Manitoba’s efforts to strengthen its workforce by investing in young talent. By supporting youth employment programs, the province is fostering economic growth and ensuring that more young individuals can pursue rewarding careers in their home communities.
The First Jobs Fund is a vital step in helping young Manitobans gain experience, develop key skills and access career opportunities that will shape their future. With continued investment in youth employment, Manitoba will create a more inclusive and skilled workforce for years to come.
