Alberta jobs program expanded, second intake begins Wednesday

Alberta is opening the second round of intake for its Jobs Now recovery program.

As of Wednesday, Albertans will be able to apply for the program, which helps connect employers with skilled labourers.

Applications to the program will be accepted starting tomorrow. The province says they'll be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are deleted. A third phase of the program is expected to open in 2022. #abpoli #ableg #Alberta — some info from the media release: pic.twitter.com/1nxBAjFj2k

— Saif Kaisar (@StaySaif) November 9, 2021

The government says it tweaked the program requirements a bit to help more people who are struggling with unemployment.

The program is open to new Alberta businesses and organizations, including those operating for less than a year, and is no longer limited to hiring full-time positions.

Employers can also now apply for funding to help fill up to 10 positions. Jobs must be filled within 90 days of being approved.

Grants awarded to employers can cover 25 per cent of an employee’s salary for a 52-week period up to a maximum of $25,000 per employee. It can also be used to cover other training costs.

Premier Jason Kenney says more than 14,000 people have been able to get work thanks to the program.