The federal government has invested in engaging youth with meaningful work opportunities to develop Canada’s next generation of farmers.

The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food announced an investment of up to $3.7 million to enhance the Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP) and support 300 jobs for youth in the agriculture sector.

The YESP aims to support agri-food employers and provide young Canadians between the ages of 15 and 30 with job experience in agriculture that could lead to a career working in the sector.

It will also support agriculture employers with the cost of hiring Canadian youth, focusing on those who face employment barriers. Eligible applicants include producers, agri-businesses, industry associations, provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous organizations and research facilities.

• Employers that hire youth facing specific employment barriers will be eligible for 80 per cent of the cost of salaries and benefits, up to $14,000.
• Applicants will be eligible for an additional $5,000 in funding to address the barriers, including relocation.
• Depending on demand, the program will support 50 per cent of salaries and benefits for youth who do not face these barriers, up to $14,000.

Applications for employers are open to March 21, and forms are available on Agriculture Canada’s website.