Hiring and training skilled trades workers is expensive—especially for small employers. Apprenticeship and trade wage subsidies help cover part of those costs by reimbursing a portion of apprentice wages. Programs like Destination Trade – EHRC are designed to reduce hiring risk, keep apprentices on the job, and support long-term workforce growth in critical sectors like electricity and renewables.
Apprenticeship and trade wage subsidies are typically non-repayable contributions paid to employers who hire eligible apprentices. The goal is simple: help small and mid-sized employers offset wage costs while apprentices complete required on-the-job training.
Most programs share a few common features:
For small businesses, these subsidies can be the difference between delaying a hire and bringing someone on now.
One example of a targeted trade wage subsidy is Destination Trade, delivered by Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC). This program is supported by sector funding and aims to help employers in the electricity field.
This funding helps employers reduce payroll pressure during the later stages of apprenticeship, when wages are higher and productivity expectations increase.
According to EHRC, eligible employers must:
Eligibility is tied to both the industry and the apprentice’s stage of training, so it’s important to confirm fit before applying.
While Destination Trade focuses on the electricity sector, many other wage subsidy programs exist for different trades and regions. Examples include:
Each program has its own eligibility rules, funding amounts, and application process. Checking program details carefully is important. GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you compare options by province, sector, and business size.
Apprenticeship and trade wage subsidies support small employers in several practical ways:
For sectors facing skilled labour shortages, wage subsidies also support broader workforce stability.
Assuming all apprentices qualify
Many wage subsidies only support specific apprenticeship years or Red Seal trades. Destination Trade, for example, is limited to third- and fourth-year apprentices.
Missing stacking rules
Some programs allow wage subsidies to be combined with others, but limits apply. Always confirm stacking rules before accepting multiple sources of funding.
Applying after the placement starts
Wage subsidy programs often require approval before or shortly after the apprentice begins work.
Ignoring tax treatment
Wage subsidy funding is generally considered taxable income for employers. Confirm reporting requirements with your accountant.
Q: What is Destination Trade – EHRC?
Destination Trade is a sector-funded wage subsidy program delivered by Electricity Human Resources Canada. It supports small and mid-sized electricity-sector employers who hire third- or fourth-year apprentices.
Q: How much funding can employers receive?
Eligible employers can receive up to $5,000 per apprentice placement to offset wage costs.
Q: Can Destination Trade be combined with other wage subsidies?
In some cases, yes. Funding can sometimes be stacked with other programs, but employers must follow EHRC and federal stacking guidelines.
Q: Which industries qualify for Destination Trade?
The program supports employers in electricity generation, transmission, distribution, renewables, and related manufacturing and services.
Q: Is the program still open?
Yes. Destination Trade is currently open, though funding availability may change throughout the year.
After reviewing these basics, GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and wage subsidy programs across Canada—check which ones match your business profile.
Apprenticeship and trade wage subsidies can significantly reduce hiring costs while helping your business build skilled, long-term talent. If you employ—or plan to hire—apprentices, the next step is identifying which wage subsidy programs fit your industry, location, and workforce plans. GrantHub helps Canadian employers stay on top of programs like Destination Trade and others that support skilled trades hiring.
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.