The federal government is looking to create employment opportunities for young people by working with employers through Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) 2027.
Eligible employers include not-for-profit organizations, public sector employers, and private sector employers with 50 or fewer full-time employees, said Patty Hajdu, minister of jobs and families and minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
Participating public and private sector employers can benefit from funding of 50 per cent of the provincial or territorial minimum wage.
“Funding for not-for-profit organizations covers up to 100 per cent of the provincial or territorial minimum wage, and all associated mandatory employment-related costs (such as EI and CPP/QPP contributions),” Hajdu told The Chronicle-Journal.
She added that each year, the federal government establishes national priorities for Canada Summer Jobs to reflect evolving needs in the labour market.
That means through 2027, priority will be given to jobs that provide work experience for young people aged 15 to 30. These jobs will be related to construction, environmental and climate-related activities, and developing digital skills or gaining exposure to artificial intelligence.
It will also prioritize not-for-profit organizations that support underserved and equity-deserving communities.
“The government of Canada has invested more than $1.5 billion through budget 2025 to help young people develop skills and gain work experience through the Student Work Placement Program and the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, including Canada Summer Jobs,” said Hajdu, adding that this complements Team Canada Strong, which is an $8-billion investment to recruit, train, and hire up to 100,000 Red Seal skilled trades workers by 2030–31. The initiative aims to build Canada’s housing, infrastructure, and defence priorities.
“The best way to prepare young people for tomorrow’s jobs is to connect them with meaningful work experiences today,” Hajdu said.
“Breaking into the workforce can be difficult, but programs like Canada Summer Jobs give youth the confidence, support, and skills that they need to succeed.”
Applicants are urged to access the Canada Summer Jobs 2027 applicant guide online through its web page before submitting their application. The guide gives instructions on how to fill out the document, eligibility requirements and assessment criteria. Employers can apply for Canada Summer Jobs 2027 funding by submitting their application electronically through the grants and contributions online services (GCOS) portal until Dec. 3, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
