Young Canadians represent the future of the agriculture and agri-food sector, and providing them with hands-on experience is essential for strengthening the workforce and supporting long-term food security. Recognizing this, the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced at the Atlantic Grains Council Cereals and Oilseeds 2026 conference that the federal government will invest up to $27 million in Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP) over the next two years. This includes nearly $13.47 million for the 2026–27 program year, aimed at helping young Canadians gain practical experience while developing essential skills in agriculture.
The YESP encourages employers in the agriculture and agri-food sector to hire youth aged 15 to 30 by providing non-repayable contributions toward wages and benefits. The program also prioritizes youth facing barriers to employment, including Indigenous youth, youth with disabilities, and those living in rural or remote regions. Applications for the 2026–27 program year will be open from March 5 to May 4, 2026, with administrative improvements introduced to streamline the process and better target youth in need of support.
Since its launch in 2019, YESP has created over 6,200 youth employment opportunities across Canada’s agriculture sector, including almost 2,000 positions for youth facing employment barriers. Funding can cover up to 50% of wages and benefits for general applicants and up to 80% for Indigenous employers or employers hiring youth facing barriers. The program is part of the broader $307.9 million Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), which aims to help young Canadians gain meaningful work experience and build rewarding careers.
Government officials emphasized the importance of investing in youth as a way to strengthen rural communities, foster innovation, and ensure the continued success of Canadian agriculture. By providing these opportunities, young Canadians gain the skills, confidence, and experience necessary to contribute to a vibrant, sustainable future for the sector.
