Northern Development Initiative Trust has announced a $6.9 million Forestry Training Fund to help forestry workers across British Columbia adapt to changing industry conditions through training, recruitment, and workforce retention initiatives.
Funded through the Canada–B.C. Workforce Tariff Response program, the initiative will support rapid skills development, employer-led training, and workforce transition programs designed to help employees move into in-demand occupations while reducing layoffs and strengthening long-term employment.
Eligible employers can receive up to $1 million in funding, covering as much as 85% of eligible wage and training costs, with support of up to $50,000 per employee. The funding will also help forestry contractors and small operators diversify into emerging opportunities, including infrastructure and other resource-related projects.
The program is open to Indigenous and First Nations organizations operating in the forestry sector, public and private companies, non-profit organizations, and employers in other natural resource industries that are hiring or training displaced forestry workers.
Northern Development said the initiative aims to strengthen workforce resilience, retain skilled employees, and support communities that depend on the forestry sector. Online applications for the Forestry Training Fund will open on July 14, providing employers with new resources to invest in workforce development and long-term industry sustainability across British Columbia.
