Hiring early-career talent is a real challenge for clean tech employers. Projects move quickly, and budgets are often tight. At the same time, federal programs aim to build Canada’s environmental workforce. Science Horizons youth internships and similar programs help by covering a large share of wages. This support allows you to grow your team without taking on all the risk.
Clean tech employers across Canada use these programs to hire new graduates, expand research teams, and build long-term capacity in environmental STEM roles.
The Science Horizons Youth Internship (SHI) is part of the federal ECO Employment Programs, delivered by ECO Canada. It helps employers create new, full-time environmental STEM jobs for young professionals. This lowers hiring costs and encourages growth.
Eligible employers can receive:
This wage coverage is valuable for clean tech startups and small businesses that need skilled staff but cannot pay the full salary themselves.
To qualify, your organization must:
Clean tech employers usually qualify if their roles are tied to:
Science Horizons supports positions that directly help the environment. For clean tech employers, this often means:
If your role supports sustainability, emissions reduction, or environmental performance, it likely fits.
Science Horizons is a top choice for environmental STEM roles, but it is not the only program available.
Each program has its own rules about job length, wage caps, and eligible activities. Comparing these programs helps you choose the best fit for your hiring plan.
For more details, check out:
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter youth employment programs by province, sector, and role type in seconds.
Science Horizons is more than just a wage subsidy. It is a workforce development tool made for sectors like clean technology.
Applications are assessed on a first come, first served basis, so applying early is important.
Applying with an existing role
Science Horizons only funds new positions. Replacing an existing employee will make your application ineligible.
Misclassifying the role
Roles without a clear environmental link, such as generic admin or sales, are often rejected.
Waiting too long to apply
Funding is first come, first served. Delays can mean missing out.
Underestimating payroll obligations
Funding is taxable income. You still need to manage CPP, EI, and benefits correctly.
Q: Is Science Horizons only for large companies?
No. Small businesses and startups can apply if they are Canadian-owned and offer eligible full-time permanent roles.
Q: How long does the internship last?
The role must be permanent, not temporary or seasonal. Funding supports the initial hiring period, but the job must continue beyond the funded term.
Q: Can clean tech startups apply before generating revenue?
Yes, as long as the business is legally incorporated and can meet payroll obligations.
Q: Does Science Horizons cover 100% of wages?
No. The program covers up to 80% of wages, capped at $25,000, plus up to $5,000 in additional supports.
Q: Are multiple interns allowed?
Employers typically apply per position. Approval depends on available funding and program limits at the time of application.
Science Horizons youth internships are one of the most effective ways for clean tech employers to find talent while controlling costs. The key is matching your role to program rules and applying early.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active youth employment and clean tech funding programs across Canada. This makes it easier to see which options fit your hiring plans before deadlines close.
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.