The Government of Canada is investing up to $27 million over the next two years to support youth employment in the agriculture sector, creating new opportunities for both young people and agri-businesses across the country.

The funding, announced by Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald, will be delivered through the Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP), with nearly $13.5 million allocated for the 2026–27 program year alone.

The program helps employers hire youth aged 15 to 30 by covering a portion of wages and benefits. Businesses can receive up to 50% of employment costs, with support rising to 80% for those hiring youth facing barriers to employment, including Indigenous youth, individuals with disabilities, and those living in rural or remote communities.

Applications for the upcoming program year are open from March 5 to May 4, 2026.

Since its launch in 2019, the program has supported more than 6,200 youth jobs across Canada’s agriculture sector, including nearly 2,000 positions for young people facing employment barriers.

The federal government says the investment is aimed at strengthening the future of Canadian agriculture by helping young people gain hands-on experience while supporting employers facing labour challenges.

New administrative changes have also been introduced this year to streamline the application process and improve access for both employers and applicants.

Local producers and agri-businesses are encouraged to explore the program as seasonal hiring ramps up.

For more information visit the Government of Canada website at agriculture.canada.ca/en/programs/youth-employment-and-skills.