Hiring early-career talent in Canada’s bioeconomy can be expensive, especially for small and mid-sized employers. The BioTalent Entry-Level Career Program helps by covering a large share of a new hire’s wages. This support makes it easier for employers to add staff while helping youth who face barriers to finding work. The program offers up to $20,000 per hire, making it one of the most generous federal wage subsidies for bioeconomy employers.
The BioTalent Entry-Level Career Program (also called the Early Career Program) is a federal wage subsidy delivered by BioTalent Canada. The program’s goal is to help employers in the bioeconomy create paid, entry-level jobs and support youth who face barriers to work.
Key funding details:
The program focuses on diversity and inclusion. Priority goes to youth who have experienced long-term unemployment, underemployment, or face systemic barriers to work.
To qualify for the BioTalent Entry-Level Career Program, your business must:
Employers who cannot apply include:
The person you hire must meet all of these requirements:
This program is not intended for senior hires or co-op students.
The application process is led by the employer and is straightforward.
Check your eligibility
Make sure your business and the job meet BioTalent’s requirements.
Find a suitable candidate
You can apply with a candidate or recruit after you get conditional approval.
Submit your application online
Applications are sent through BioTalent Canada’s portal. Reviews happen on a rolling basis.
Wait for approval before hiring
Do not start the job before you are approved. Retroactive funding is not available.
Hire and report
After approval, hire the participant and submit wage and progress reports to receive reimbursement.
Using tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you confirm if your business and role qualify before starting your application.
Covered costs:
Not covered:
Hiring before approval
BioTalent does not fund jobs that start before you receive approval.
Hiring a full-time student
Even if a student has just graduated, they must not be enrolled full-time.
Combining federal funding
You cannot use BioTalent funding with other federal wage subsidies for the same role.
Offering part-time work
Positions under 30 hours per week are not eligible.
Q: How much funding does the BioTalent Entry-Level Career Program provide?
Up to $20,000 per hire, covering up to 60% of wages. Employers must pay at least 40%.
Q: How long must the job placement last?
The role must last at least 3 months and be full-time (30+ hours per week).
Q: Can nonprofits or startups apply?
Yes, if they are in the bioeconomy and meet all employer criteria.
Q: Can I combine this with a provincial wage subsidy?
Federal stacking is not allowed. Some provincial programs may be allowed. Always check with BioTalent before applying.
Q: Is there a deadline to apply?
Applications are accepted until all funds are allocated.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of wage subsidy and hiring programs across Canada, making it easy to see which ones fit your business.
If you plan to hire entry-level talent in biotech, agtech, or the wider bioeconomy, the BioTalent Entry-Level Career Program can lower your payroll costs. Before applying, compare this program with other wage subsidies to prevent funding conflicts. GrantHub helps you view all your options in one place so you can make the best choice for your business.
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