For independent Canadian book publishers, finding the resources to train new talent can be a real challenge, especially while balancing tight margins and growing demands across editorial, marketing, and digital operations. The Canada Book Fund Publishers Business Development — Publishing Internships stream is designed to ease that pressure by helping publishers bring interns into meaningful, hands-on roles that support both workforce development and day-to-day business needs.
Delivered by Canadian Heritage as part of the broader Canada Book Fund, this national program supports paid internship projects within Canadian-owned publishing firms. Funding helps cover a significant portion of an intern’s wages and related costs, allowing publishers to invest in training without absorbing the full financial burden. Support can reach up to roughly $40,000 per project, with enhanced contribution levels available when internships support Indigenous interns, individuals from racialized communities, official language minority communities, or people with print disabilities. The focus is on building long-term capacity in the book industry while strengthening the production and marketing of Canadian-authored titles.
This opportunity is particularly relevant for small and mid-sized publishers looking to grow their teams, develop future professionals, or expand into new skills areas they might not otherwise afford. Applications are currently being accepted on an ongoing basis, making it worth exploring whether this internship funding aligns with your publishing goals and staffing plans.
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