Premier cites need to 'help employers find the people to drive the economy forward'
The government of British Columbia has announced the next intake for the StrongerBC future skills grant. This initiative, designed to support training for high-demand, well-paying careers, promises to cover most or all of the tuition costs for eligible individuals.
Premier David Eby emphasized the necessity of this program, citing the province’s robust economic growth.
“Because B.C.’s strong economy is growing, we now have more job openings than people with the training needed to work in high-demand fields,” he said. “We need to give people the opportunity to build a good life – and help employers find the people to drive our economy forward and deliver the services we all rely on.”
The grant offers up to $3,500 in eligible short-term skills training at public post-secondary institutions. British Columbians aged 19 and older are eligible to apply. Last year, over 7,000 residents benefited from this grant, and the government expects to help thousands more in the upcoming year.
“This government is focused on investing in British Columbians and removing financial barriers to their success,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “As jobs transform and more training is required, with the $3,500 future skills grant, people will be able to boost their skills, succeed in their current jobs, and get better-paying jobs.”
The program has supported learners across a range of industries, including healthcare, firefighting, cybersecurity, and construction. The upcoming intake will offer more than 300 programs, with training set to begin in September 2024. The flexibility of in-person, online, and hybrid delivery models aims to accommodate the diverse needs of learners throughout the province.
Supported training programs include:
The StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, introduced on May 2, 2023, underpins this initiative. The plan is backed by a $480-million investment from the B.C. government.
