If you’re searching for the second career grant Ontario, you’re not alone. The original Second Career program no longer exists — but it was replaced by Better Jobs Ontario (BJO), which offers similar (and in some cases broader) funding for retraining. In 2025–2026, this program can provide up to $35,000 to help Ontarians train for in‑demand jobs.
This page is updated for the January 27, 2026 guidelines and explains exactly how the former Second Career grant works today.
The Second Career grant Ontario is now officially called Better Jobs Ontario (BJO). It’s a provincial retraining program delivered through Employment Ontario service providers.
Better Jobs Ontario helps unemployed or laid‑off Ontarians pay for skills training so they can move into stable, in‑demand work.
Under Better Jobs Ontario, funding is based on the length of your training program:
Funding is not paid as cash upfront. Approved costs are covered directly or reimbursed through your service provider.
The former Second Career grant — now Better Jobs Ontario — can cover:
Eligibility is assessed case by case, but core requirements for Better Jobs Ontario include:
You may qualify if you are:
You can still apply if you are receiving:
Your chosen program must:
Not every program is approved. This is where many applicants run into problems.
One of the biggest differences between Better Jobs Ontario and other grants is how you apply.
You do not apply online directly through the ministry.
Processing times vary, and funding is not guaranteed — even if you meet basic eligibility.
Assuming “Second Career” still exists
The name matters. Applications must be for Better Jobs Ontario, not the old program.
Choosing a program before approval
Starting school early can make you ineligible. Always get approval first.
Picking low‑demand training
Programs without clear job prospects are often declined.
Applying without income documentation
Household income plays a role. Missing paperwork delays or sinks applications.
Q: Is the Second Career grant still available in Ontario?
No. The Second Career program was officially replaced by Better Jobs Ontario, which now serves the same purpose.
Q: Is Better Jobs Ontario a grant or a loan?
It is non‑repayable funding. You do not pay it back if you complete your approved training.
Q: Can I apply while on EI or Ontario Works?
Yes. People receiving EI, OW, or ODSP may still qualify, depending on their situation.
Q: Does Better Jobs Ontario cover living expenses?
Yes. A basic living allowance may be included, plus extra supports for childcare, disability, or relocation.
Q: How do I know if my program is approved?
An Employment Ontario service provider confirms this during your assessment.
You may also want to explore:
The second career grant Ontario may be gone in name, but Better Jobs Ontario still provides meaningful retraining support — if you qualify and apply correctly. Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly filter Ontario programs by your situation, industry, and training goals.
GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — including provincial training and employment funding — so you can see what actually fits your profile before you apply.
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