Hiring a post-secondary student for the summer can help your business handle busy periods and build future talent. The Student Training and Employment Program (STEP) is a Yukon government wage subsidy that helps employers pay student wages during the summer. If you are unsure whether your business or the job you offer qualifies, this eligibility checklist explains the details in clear terms.
The Student Training and Employment Program (STEP) is managed by the Government of Yukon, Department of Education. It supports Yukon employers who offer paid work to post-secondary students. Use this checklist before you apply.
Your business must meet all of these requirements:
Operate in Yukon
Your business must be located and active in Yukon.
Have a Yukon office and local contact person
You must have a physical office in Yukon and a local supervisor for the student.
Be established for at least one year
Your business must have operated in Yukon for at least 12 months before applying.
Offer a valid employment opportunity
The job must provide real work experience and training. The position should not replace an existing employee.
The student you hire through STEP must:
Be a post-secondary student
The program is for students enrolled in a recognized post-secondary program.
Work in a role related to their studies
The job should help the student develop skills and be connected to what they are studying.
Be available for summer employment
STEP jobs must start no earlier than May 1 and finish no later than September 1.
STEP funding has specific wage and hour rules:
Hourly wage is set by education level
Total work hours must be between 450 and 600 hours
This usually matches a full-time summer job.
Funding covers student wages
STEP provides a wage subsidy at the approved rates. The funding is not listed as repayable by the Yukon government. If you have questions about funding terms, contact the Government of Yukon directly.)
You can use GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to see if STEP or other Yukon programs are right for your business.
New businesses are often declined because they do not meet the minimum 12-month operating requirement.
STEP is focused on helping students gain experience in their chosen field. Jobs that do not relate to their education may be rejected.
Employment must be between May 1 and September 1. Jobs starting earlier or ending later are not eligible.
There may be limits on combining (stacking) STEP with other funding. Always check with program administrators before using multiple subsidies.
If STEP seems like a good fit, review your job description and student candidate using this checklist before you apply. Yukon employers may also qualify for other student or wage subsidy programs. GrantHub can help you compare options and keep track of deadlines, so you can plan your student hiring with confidence.
See also:
Q: What is the Student Training and Employment Program (STEP)?
STEP is a Yukon government wage subsidy that helps employers hire post-secondary students for summer jobs. It focuses on work that is related to the student’s studies.
Q: How much funding does STEP provide?
STEP covers student wages from $22.56 to $27.68 per hour, depending on education level, for 450 to 600 hours of work.
Q: Who can apply for STEP funding?
Yukon-based businesses that have operated for at least one year, have a local office, and provide a suitable student role can apply.
Q: Are non-profits eligible for STEP?
Eligibility depends on meeting the employer requirements set by the Yukon government. Non-profits should check their status directly with the program administrator.
Q: Is STEP funding repayable?
STEP funding is not listed as repayable in Yukon government materials. If you have concerns about repayment or other terms, contact the Government of Yukon for clarification.)
GrantHub tracks active grant and wage subsidy programs across Canada, making it easier to find programs that match your business.
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.