If you’ve been laid off, working fewer hours, or stuck in a job with limited prospects, the Second Career (Better Jobs Ontario) program can help you learn new skills for jobs that are hiring. This Ontario government program offers funding for skills training, along with help for living and education costs while you study. It is delivered through Employment Ontario service providers.
Below, you’ll find a clear guide on how to apply for Second Career (Better Jobs Ontario), who qualifies, and what the funding can cover.
Second Career is now called Better Jobs Ontario. It provides financial support for approved training programs that lead to jobs employers are hiring for in Ontario.
Better Jobs Ontario covers:
Funding limits:
The goal is to help you get back to work quickly with skills that match local job openings.
Eligibility is determined by an Employment Ontario counsellor. You may qualify if you need new skills to rejoin the workforce and your chosen program will improve your job prospects.
You may be eligible if you:
You can apply even if you receive:
Final approval depends on your employment history, local labour market demand, and the suitability and length of your training program.
Applications must go through an Employment Ontario service provider in your community. They help with eligibility, paperwork, and training approval.
A counsellor will:
Approval is based on need, not just interest.
Your training must:
If your program does not lead to a real job, your application may not be approved.
Your counsellor will help you prepare:
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher is a helpful tool for checking if other provincial or federal training supports fit your situation.
After submission, your application is reviewed. Timelines vary by region and training start date. Do not enrol or pay tuition before you get written approval.
Employment Ontario staff review your application to make sure it meets all program rules. They look at your employment history, how strong the local job market is for your chosen field, and whether the training you picked is suitable and the right length. The program aims to support people who have a clear plan to find work in an area where employers are hiring.
If there are missing documents or questions about your plan, your counsellor may contact you for more information. Some applications take longer if the training start date is close or if there is high demand for funding in your region.
Approved funding may include:
Not all costs are guaranteed. Coverage depends on your situation and program length.
Choosing training before meeting a counsellor
Programs must be approved first. Paying upfront can make you ineligible.
Picking a job with weak local demand
Even good programs may be denied if there are few jobs in your area.
Underestimating total costs
Missing expenses in your budget can delay or reduce funding.
Assuming eligibility is automatic
Receiving EI or assistance does not guarantee approval. Each case is assessed individually.
Q: How much funding can I get from Second Career (Better Jobs Ontario)?
You can receive up to $28,000 for programs one year or less, and up to $35,000 for programs longer than one year, up to two years.
Q: Where do I apply for Better Jobs Ontario?
Applications are submitted through an Employment Ontario service provider, not directly online.
Q: What types of training programs are covered?
The program supports short-term training, micro-credentials, and longer programs up to two years that lead to in-demand jobs.
Q: Can I apply if I receive EI, Ontario Works, or ODSP?
Yes. Receiving income assistance does not automatically disqualify you.
Q: Is Better Jobs Ontario funding taxable?
Some portions may be taxable. Your service provider can explain what applies to your situation.
Applying for Second Career (Better Jobs Ontario) begins with understanding your options and selecting training that leads to real jobs. GrantHub tracks active training and workforce funding programs across Canada, making it easier to see what support may fit your profile before you meet with a counsellor.
See also:
If learning new skills is your path back to stable work, understanding the process early can help you avoid delays and missed funding.
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