Venture for Canada — Internship Program

Hiring motivated student talent can be a game-changer for startups and growing small businesses, but wages and onboarding costs often hold employers back. The Venture for Canada — Internship Program is designed to lower that barrier by helping businesses across Canada bring on interns while receiving meaningful wage support. Through this program, eligible employers can access non-repayable funding of up to $7,000 per student per term, helping offset a significant portion of payroll costs, with enhanced support when hiring students from underrepresented groups.

The program is well suited for startups and SMEs looking for help in areas like sales, marketing, software or hardware development, finance, operations, and other entrepreneurial roles. Beyond the wage subsidy, Venture for Canada adds value by preparing interns for small business environments through structured virtual training, practical micro-courses, and live sessions with experienced entrepreneurs. Employers benefit from interns who are not only financially supported but also better equipped to contribute quickly and adapt to fast-moving teams. Businesses located exclusively in Ontario should note that they are not eligible for this funding, while employers in other provinces can participate as long as they meet program requirements.

Applications are currently being accepted and spots can fill quickly, making early consideration important. For business owners interested in understanding how this internship program could support their hiring plans and growth goals, exploring the full details can help determine the right fit.