Province investing nearly $3.5 million to train 800 Ontarians in emerging technologies
TORONTO — The Ontario government is investing $3.5 million through the Skills Development Fund (SDF) to provide free skills development training in technology-related fields for 800 workers and jobseekers in Toronto, with a focus on fostering Black entrepreneurship in tech. This brings Ontario’s total investment in skills development training through SDF to nearly $1.1 billion.
“As Ontario leads the world in advanced technologies, it is critical that we invest in training and upskilling workers to ensure our talent matches our ambition,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “By providing hands-on training in high-growth sectors, our government is working with our philanthropic and private-sector partners to create well-paying, future-proof careers for more Ontarians.”
In partnership with the Dream Legacy Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focusing on fostering Black economic and social inclusion across Canada, participants will receive specialized upskilling with hands-on learning in high-demand sectors, including skilled trades and technical occupations. Participants will also receive advanced skills development in emerging technologies such as app development, coding and design principles, and virtual reality basics, as well as professional development training, mentorship and job placement support.
“As one of the largest innovation and tech clusters in North America, Ontario’s highly skilled workers are the engine of our economy,” said Patrice Barnes, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “That is why our government continues to make record investments through our Skills Development Fund to ensure all Ontarians have the opportunity to thrive, no matter your background.”