Digital Skills for Youth Program

Finding digitally skilled talent can be a challenge for small and medium-sized organizations, especially when budgets are tight and training capacity is limited. The Digital Skills for Youth Program helps address this gap by supporting employers across Canada who want to bring on interns to work on digital-focused projects. Delivered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada through approved delivery organizations, the program is designed to connect businesses and nonprofits with post‑secondary graduates eager to apply their skills in real-world settings.

Through this initiative, participating organizations can receive non-repayable wage support, often covering a significant portion of an intern’s salary, with funding that can reach up to roughly $20,000 per placement depending on the project. The focus is on roles that build in-demand digital capabilities, such as data analysis, digital marketing, software development, cybersecurity, or technology adoption. In return, employers are expected to provide meaningful work experience, mentorship, and training that helps young professionals prepare for long-term careers in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

The Digital Skills for Youth Program is well suited for organizations that want to grow their digital capacity while contributing to youth employment and skills development. Applications are generally ongoing through delivery partners, making it worthwhile to explore how this program could support your next hire and strengthen your organization’s digital capabilities.