Alberta is a growing hub for businesses competing in local, national and global markets. To keep pace with a rapidly evolving labour market, economic demands and new technologies, Alberta’s workforce must continue to adapt. The new Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant is a $39-million three-year partnership between the province and federal government that will create new opportunities to increase productivity across Alberta.
Financial constraints are one of the biggest challenges employers face when it comes to training their employees and developing their skills. This grant, which shares training costs between the employer and government, will further strengthen Alberta’s workforce, keeping it competitive and adding another reason for companies to invest and grow here.
“Alberta is already one of Canada’s most productive economies, but we know there’s more work to do to stay competitive. The Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant is an investment in both people and businesses – helping employers adopt new technologies, streamline operations and drive innovation, while giving Albertans access to the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing economy.”
Training supported by the Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant must focus on one of three categories: business process and operations management, technical, or digital and technological. This includes practical, hands-on learning such as setting up equipment and improving workflow processes, managing business operations, and using digital tools like software, cybersecurity systems and data analysis.
“Canadians are meeting the challenges of a changing economy with determination. Through the Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant, we are equipping workers with the skills they need to succeed, helping businesses grow and supporting communities across the country. We are investing in Canada’s future and in the people building it every day.”
For existing employees, employers contribute 50 per cent of the total eligible training costs. Government contributes the other 50 per cent of the cost to a maximum of $5,000 per employed trainee per year. When hiring and training an unemployed Albertan, up to 75 per cent of eligible training costs could be covered, up to a maximum of $10,000 per trainee per year. Applications are now open.
“Technology in the workplace is becoming more advanced, which means workers across Alberta need training to keep up. Our team is pleased to see this investment and creation of the Canada-Alberta Productivity grant that will carry out the training and skills development for workers to stay productive for years to come.”
The new grant helps Albertans build skills for today’s jobs and supports the goals of the Alberta Jobs Strategy. This strategy supports Alberta employers and workers by investing in workforce development research and strategies, and expanding access to labour data, projects and training programs.
The Canada-Alberta Productivity Grant is funded by the Government of Canada through Employment Insurance contributions from workers and employers via the Canada-Alberta Workforce Development Agreement.
Key facts
- The $39 million over three years includes almost $15 million in 2025-26, and $12 million in both 2026-27 and 2027-28.
- In 2023, Alberta had the highest labour productivity (measured as gross domestic product per hour worked) among the provinces at $78, well surpassing the national average of $63.50.
- Alberta tied Saskatchewan for the highest business sector productivity of the provinces in 2023 at $75.80, significantly higher than Canada’s $59.10.