Better Jobs Ontario has replaced the Second Career program. The program now offers increased eligibility for the unemployed and underemployed as well as those on social assistance, gig workers, youth and newcomers to Ontario. Please visit georgebrown.ca/better for more information.
Who is eligible for Better Jobs Ontario Funding?
If you were laid off after 2004, you may qualify for skills training in demand occupations in Ontario – even if you’ve received Employment Insurance (EI). Eligible training helps Better Jobs Ontario participants move up to better jobs than they could get without the training. This is a very specific government program, so some of these conditions need to be defined.
Register for Better Jobs Ontario Information Session
Better Jobs Ontario information session in George Brown College will cover topics like Better Jobs Ontario eligibility, meeting Better Jobs Ontario admissions requirements, and Better Jobs Ontario application procedures.
Register for the Better Jobs Ontario Info Session
Who is “Laid-off worker”?
- is still unemployed;
- has taken any interim jobs to make ends meets but is currently unemployed;
- has taken any interim jobs to make ends meets and is still in that job;
- is on salary continuance (an alternative to pay in lieu of notice or severance. The employees receive their regular salary for a designated period and they may receive some or all of their benefits as well);
- is on severance (a lump sum paid to an employee upon termination).
What is "Interim Jobs to Make Ends Meets"?
An “interim job to make ends meet” must have a lower wage and/or a lower skill level compared to the original. These jobs may be full-time, part-time, seasonal, or contract work.
What is "Demand Occupation"?
“Demand occupation” means there is a demonstrated need in Ontario. You’ll need to provide labour market information, but not necessarily job postings, with your application.
What is "Better Jobs"?
A "better job" must be at a higher wage or higher skill level or offer more opportunity for the future.
If you received Employment Insurance (EI)
IF you accepted EI, you may qualify for:
- between six months and one year of skills training for National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill level B and equivalent occupations in demand in Ontario
- up to one year of academic upgrading where necessary as a prerequisite for skills training.
If you are not eligible for Employment Insurance (EI)
Non-EI-eligible individuals may qualify for:
- up to one year of skills training for either NOC skill level B or NOC skill level C occupations and equivalent in demand in Ontario
- up to one year of academic upgrading where necessary as a prerequisite for skills training.
More information about Better Jobs Ontario
Please visit the the Better Jobs Ontario website.
You can also contact your local Employment Ontario office for confirmation of your eligibility for financial assistance under the Better Jobs Ontario program.
