Changes to the Alberta Jobs Now program will help more Albertans get back to work and support stronger economic recovery throughout the province.

The Alberta Jobs Now program second application intake period will open on Nov. 10 with changes designed to help employers meet their labour needs and provide more Albertans with the skills they need to land successful careers.

The program is a key component of Alberta’s Recovery Plan to create jobs and diversify the economy by strengthening the workforce with skills training and employment grants.

“The Alberta Jobs Now program is helping more than 14,000 Albertans get back to work and now we’re improving it so even more people can benefit. Alberta’s Recovery Plan continues to breathe new life into our economy and provide new opportunities for all Albertans.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

This program is open to new Alberta businesses and organizations, including those operating for less than a year. It also supports the hiring of workers into part-time positions, making it more inclusive and accessible for all Albertans.

While the program remains focused on supporting the hiring of unemployed Albertans, this will no longer be a requirement for new hires. The government is making it easier for employers to hire the most qualified candidates for available positions.

Employers can now also apply for funding to help fill 10 positions that must be filled within 90 days after approval of their application to the program, speeding up the hiring process and allowing more businesses to participate in the program.

“Alberta’s government is making sure the success of the first application intake period continues. We listened to feedback from Alberta employers to make the program more effective and inclusive to help as many hard-working Albertans get back to work as possible.”

Tyler Shandro, Minister of Labour and Immigration

“With only 43 per cent of Alberta small businesses at normal staffing levels, more support is needed to help with hiring and economic recovery. These changes to the Jobs Now program reflect the challenges small businesses are facing and will allow more small businesses to use the program as they begin to return to normal staffing levels.”

Annie Dormuth, Alberta provincial affairs director, Canadian Federation of Independent Business

“After a very well-received first intake, it’s positive to see the Alberta Jobs Now program returning for a second application period. The changes to this program will help more job creators access these much-needed funds. In particular, we support the move to expand eligibility to businesses and organizations that have been operating for less than a year – addressing key feedback from our membership.”

Ken Kobly, president and CEO, Alberta Chamber of Commerce

“Through the pandemic, businesses have faced many challenges with attracting and retaining talent. The next round of the Alberta Jobs Now program will help create new employment opportunities and provide businesses with the resources to invest in the people and skills needed to accelerate their growth and success.”

Deborah Yedlin, president and CEO, Calgary Chamber of Commerce

“The revisions to the Alberta Jobs Now program will support business as they continue to recover and provide opportunities for retraining. We are pleased that the government engaged with the business community for input and implemented meaningful improvements.”

Jeffrey Sundquist, president and CEO, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce

“Hudsons Canada’s Pubs are very appreciative of the much-needed provincial support we have received through the Alberta Jobs Now program. As our industry recovers, our goal is to employ Albertans and deliver a great guest experience, and the Alberta Jobs Now Program is helping us do that.”

Brent Nalder, general manager, Hudsons Downtown Calgary

Applications to the Alberta Jobs Now program will be accepted starting on Nov. 10, and will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are allocated for this intake. A third application intake period will open in 2022.

For detailed information on eligibility and how to apply, please visit alberta.ca/jobsnow.