Government Boosts Youth Jobs with Thousands of New Opportunities
In a major push to support youth employment and strengthen the economy, the Government of Canada is expanding its Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program by creating up to 6,000 additional job opportunities this summer. The announcement raises the total number of CSJ-supported positions to 76,000, offering young Canadians more chances to gain paid work experience in communities nationwide.
The expanded initiative comes at a critical time, as the country focuses on building the strongest economy in the G7 while supporting small businesses and not-for-profits through the busy summer season.
Real Jobs, Real Skills for the Future
The CSJ program gives youth aged 15 to 30 meaningful, paid job opportunities that help shape their education and career paths. Whether in tourism, housing construction, recreation, environmental protection, or digital technology, the positions are designed to build skills, grow confidence, and improve long-term job prospects.
“The Canada Summer Jobs program helps young people get meaningful, paid work experience that builds skills, confidence, and connections,” said Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families. “It also gives small businesses and not-for-profits the staff they need to grow and serve their communities.”
Supporting Indigenous-Led Projects
Minister Hajdu made the announcement during a visit to Wataynikaneyap Power’s head office on Fort William First Nation in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The organization, which leads a large-scale energy project connecting remote First Nations communities to the power grid, has already hired students through CSJ funding—including an electrical engineering technologist.
“Capacity-building is part of our vision,” said Margaret Kenequanash, CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power. “We appreciate the CSJ program for helping us hire five students since 2022. Our goal is to create hope and opportunities for our youth.”
Application Window Now Open
Youth can now explore job opportunities across the country on the Job Bank website and mobile app. The 2025 hiring period runs through July 21, with positions spanning sectors like food service, marketing, STEM, and skilled trades.
Anna Gainey, Secretary of State for Children and Youth, encouraged youth to explore the program:
“A good summer job offers valuable work experience and builds confidence. I invite young Canadians to look for CSJ opportunities in their communities.”
Program Results and Future Investments
Since 2019, the Canada Summer Jobs program has funded over 460,000 job opportunities for youth. In 2024 alone, it exceeded its target by supporting 71,200 jobs.
Recent data also shows the program’s strong impact:
- 92% of 2024 participants said they gained confidence in skills needed for future employment.
- 85% said they felt more optimistic about their future job prospects.
- An independent audit found that CSJ participants tend to earn more long-term compared to those who did not join the program.
Looking Ahead: A Bigger Investment in Youth
As part of Budget 2024, the federal government has committed $351.2 million to support 90,000 youth employment opportunities in 2025–26. This includes:
- $200.5 million for CSJ to offer high-quality summer jobs, especially in sectors like housing construction facing labour shortages.
- $150.7 million for the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), which will fund placements and supports in key growth industries including STEM and digital tech.
The 6,000 new CSJ jobs announced today come from an additional $25 million reallocated within the government in direct response to the growing demand for youth employment support.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more updates on youth employment, economic opportunities, and workforce development across Canada.
