If you run a business in Yukon and need help with hiring or training, choosing the right government program matters. The Staffing UP and Working UP programs serve different types of employers, and applying to the wrong one can slow things down. The key difference comes down to whether you already employ staff beyond yourself.
Both programs are delivered by the Government of Yukon and are designed to support the territory’s workforce. But they target different business situations.
Staffing UP is for Yukon employers who already have at least one employee and want help to find, hire, train, or retain workers. The program is flexible and supports a wide range of labour-related needs.
According to the Government of Yukon, Staffing UP can be used to:
Basic eligibility requirements include:
If you have no employees yet, this program is usually not the right fit.
Working UP is designed for self-employed Yukoners and sole proprietors who do not yet employ staff. While Staffing UP focuses on building a team, Working UP supports individuals who are still in the owner-operator phase of their business.
The Government of Yukon specifically notes that if you have no staff, you may be eligible for Working UP instead of Staffing UP.
In simple terms:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly filter Yukon programs based on whether you have employees and what kind of support you need.
Use this quick comparison to decide where to focus your time.
Funding amounts under Staffing UP vary based on your activities and needs. There is no single fixed grant amount. This makes it especially useful for businesses with specific workforce challenges.
Applying to Staffing UP without employees
If you do not employ anyone besides yourself, your application may be redirected or declined. Working UP is usually the correct program in this case.
Assuming funding is automatic
Staffing UP is not an entitlement program. You must clearly connect the requested support to your workforce needs.
Being vague about training or HR goals
Applications are stronger when they explain how training or HR improvements will benefit your employees and business.
Ignoring tax implications
Staffing UP funding is generally treated as business income. Confirm how it applies to your situation with an accountant.
For more details, see Common Mistakes Employers Make When Applying for Wage Subsidy Grants.
Q: Can a sole proprietor apply for Staffing UP?
Only if you employ at least one additional worker. If you work alone, Working UP is usually the appropriate program.
Q: How much funding does Staffing UP provide?
There is no single set amount. Funding depends on your planned activities, such as hiring, training, or HR improvements.
Q: What types of expenses are eligible under Staffing UP?
Eligible expenses can include hiring costs, employee training, HR development, and workplace supports.
Q: Is Staffing UP funding taxable?
In most cases, it is treated as business income. You should confirm the tax treatment with your accountant.
Q: How do you apply for Staffing UP?
Applications are submitted through the Yukon government’s website and assessed based on employer needs and program fit.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada, including Yukon-specific workforce funding, to help you check which ones match your business profile. Try GrantHub to find Yukon grants that fit your business needs.
Choose between Staffing UP and Working UP based on your current business situation, not future plans. If you already employ staff, Staffing UP offers flexible support to strengthen your workforce. If you are still operating solo, Working UP may be the better starting point.
For related guidance, see also:
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