The Skills Development Fund (SDF) launched in February 2021 as part of the COVID-19 pandemic response initiative and has shifted focus to post-pandemic economic recovery. The SDF Training Stream supports solutions to stimulate economic growth in numerous sectors in Ontario’s economy as well as workforce development strategies to increase competitive advantage. The primary objectives are to support and develop a resilient workforce and encourage partnerships that support innovative ideas and training solutions. The Capital Stream supports increased training capacity for emerging and in-demand sectors in Ontario, as well as sectors experiencing labour market challenges. The Stream invests in upgrades of training centres, conversions of existing buildings into training centres, and the construction of new training centres.
Projects for the SDF Training Stream with budgets greater than $150,000 are prioritized, with no maximum or minimum funding amounts.
SDF Capital Stream recipients can receive up to 49% of eligible costs covered, and are required to contribute at least 30% of costs towards the project.
Eligible expenditures covered under the SDF Training Stream include:
Examples of projects include research and development of modernized skills development and innovative business models; production of new tools or software; solutions to barriers in skills training; and more.
Eligible expenditures covered under the SDF Capital Stream include:
To qualify for the Skills Development Fund Training Stream, applicants must:
To qualify for the Skills Development Fund Capital Stream, applicants must:
Priority sectors include skilled trades and sectors experiencing labour market challenges.
SDF was established in 2021 and has had several intakes since then.
Find out more about the services we offer, what options are a good fit for your business, and where to begin on your funding journey.
