If your organization is working to address workforce shortages or connect Yukoners with jobs, the Building UP Program (Yukon) is one of the territory’s main funding options. Run by the Government of Yukon, this program supports labour market projects that help employers find workers and help people gain skills. As of June 2024, the program is listed as open; however, intake timing and funding decisions depend on project scope.
The Building UP Program funds projects that strengthen Yukon’s labour market. Instead of offering a fixed grant amount to individual businesses, it supports projects and services that benefit workers, employers, or entire sectors.
According to the Government of Yukon, the program focuses on initiatives that:
Building UP funding is usually not aimed at individual small businesses applying on their own. Eligible applicants typically include:
Employers can still benefit by participating in or partnering on a funded project, even if they are not the lead applicant.
There is no fixed maximum grant amount published for the Building UP Program. Funding levels depend on:
Funding is generally non-repayable, meaning you do not pay it back as long as you meet the program’s terms and reporting requirements.
Applying for Building UP is more involved than filling out a short online form. The government assesses projects based on their impact, readiness, and alignment with Yukon’s labour market needs.
Most applicants can expect the following steps:
Define your labour market problem
Be clear about the issue you are addressing, such as skills gaps, worker shortages, or barriers to employment.
Design a project-based solution
Outline the activities you will deliver. This may include training programs, employment services, employer matching, or sector coordination.
Prepare a detailed proposal
Your application typically needs:
Submit through the Government of Yukon
Applications are submitted directly to the Government of Yukon through their Building UP intake process.
Because funding amounts vary by project, reviewers focus heavily on value for money and measurable outcomes.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Yukon-based labour market programs and see whether Building UP or similar funding fits your project model in seconds.
Applying as a standalone business
Most Building UP funding is awarded to organizations delivering labour market services. If you are a business, consider partnering with an eligible organization.
Being vague about outcomes
Projects without clear job placement numbers, training targets, or employer benefits are less competitive.
Underestimating reporting requirements
Building UP funding usually comes with progress and financial reporting. Make sure your team can handle this.
Assuming funding is automatic because the program is open
“Open” does not mean guaranteed. Projects are assessed individually based on merit and labour market impact.
Q: Is the Building UP Program currently open in Yukon?
As of June 2024, the program is listed as open, but application timing and approvals depend on project readiness and available funding.
Q: Can small businesses apply directly for Building UP funding?
In most cases, no. Funding is typically led by non-profits, service providers, or sector groups, though businesses can participate as partners.
Q: What types of activities does Building UP fund?
Eligible activities include employment services, skills training, employer supports, and projects that connect jobseekers with employers.
Q: How much funding can a project receive?
There is no fixed cap. Funding amounts vary based on the size, scope, and expected impact of the project.
Q: Is Building UP funding repayable?
No. Funding is generally non-repayable if project conditions and reporting requirements are met.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — including Yukon workforce and training funding — so you can quickly see which options match your organization or business profile.
If your organization works with employers or jobseekers in Yukon, the Building UP Program (Yukon) can be a strong fit for project-based funding. The key is aligning your proposal with clear labour market outcomes and the right applicant structure. GrantHub helps you compare Building UP with other Yukon and federal programs, so you can focus your time on applications that actually fit your goals.
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