British Columbia will expand adult literacy programs to 204 communities this year, potentially helping employers address workforce challenges as more workers gain basic skills training.
The province invests $3.4 million annually in the Community Adult Literacy Program, which helps adults improve writing, reading, math and digital skills. The expansion represents a 55 per cent increase from 132 communities served in 2024-25.
The program runs from Sept. 1, 2025, to Aug. 31, 2026, and will support 96 literacy initiatives delivered by 67 providers across B.C.
Employed workers seek skill upgrades
Nearly 39 per cent of program participants from 2017-18 to 2023-24 were already employed when they joined, suggesting many working adults recognize gaps in their basic skills. The program served almost 32,000 people during that period.
The data shows 35.4 per cent of participants were unemployed when they started the program, representing a potential talent pool for employers once workers complete their training.
Almost half of all participants had previously completed some post-secondary education or skills training, indicating many workers may need to update foundational skills to keep pace with workplace demands.
Multiple delivery options
The programs offer one-on-one tutoring, small group sessions and drop-in services, available both in-person and online. Since 2020-21, almost 37,000 people have accessed literacy support through drop-in services.
Of participants, 69.8 per cent identified as female and 19 per cent identified as Indigenous. About 16.5 per cent were retired when they joined the program.
Workforce development strategy
The government positions the literacy program as part of its strategy to develop a skilled workforce for B.C.’s economy. The program helps participants secure better jobs and access further education.
The Community Adult Literacy Program operates on a two-year funding cycle, with 2025-26 funding representing the first year of the 2025-27 cycle.
Learn more:
For more details about the Community Adult Literacy Program (scroll to bottom), visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/adult-education/adult-upgrading
For a list of the 2025-26 Community Adult Literacy Program funding recipients, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/CALP_Recipients_2025-26.pdf
