ECO Canada is planning to scale up its workforce development programs following the federal government’s commitment of $943 million to youth employment and skills training initiatives in Budget 2025.
The Calgary-based organization, which has delivered the Student Work Placement Program since 2017, will receive continued funding through a three-year, $635 million allocation to the program. ECO Canada said the investment will allow it to expand work-integrated learning opportunities for students pursuing careers in environmental and clean technology sectors.
“The federal government’s continued investment in work-integrated learning programs like the Student Work Placement Program is a vital step toward building a resilient and future-ready workforce,” said Kevin Nilsen, president and CEO of ECO Canada.
Programs target youth unemployment
The organization currently operates several programs aimed at connecting young workers with environmental sector employers, including Science Horizons Youth Internship and Digital Skills for Youth. Youth unemployment stands at 14.7 per cent, according to ECO Canada.
The budget’s two-year, $308 million allocation to the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy Program will support ECO Canada’s efforts to help young professionals transition into careers aligned with their education, Nilsen said.
The organization also runs the Environmental Foreign Talent Development Program, which reimburses employers up to 75 per cent of wages for hiring newcomers with international credentials. ECO Canada said it is positioned to expand this program in response to budget funding for the Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund.
Organization welcomes workforce development funding
ECO Canada said it supports the budget’s establishment of a Workforce Alliance and Workforce Innovation Fund, which will receive $383 million over five years for workforce development initiatives.
“These budget measures will help us expand our reach, deepen our impact, and ensure that Canada’s environmental workforce is inclusive, skilled, and resilient,” said Nilsen.
The organization provides training, certification and labour market research for Canada’s environmental sector. It works with government, educational institutions and employers to develop workforce solutions and track employment trends in environmental industries.
Nilsen said strong workforce development is necessary for Canada to remain competitive globally. “This means investing in training, credential recognition, and inclusive pathways that empower Canadians to thrive in emerging sectors,” he said.
