Yes, Better Jobs Ontario is the new name for what was previously called the Second Career program. The Ontario government rebranded and expanded the program to provide even more support for eligible participants. The core purpose remains the same: helping Ontarians access skills training and financial support to transition into in-demand careers.

Better Jobs Ontario is a government-funded employment training program that provides eligible Ontario residents with financial support to pursue skills training. The program covers training costs (tuition, books, supplies) and living expenses while you complete an approved program. You work with an Employment Ontario service provider who guides you through the application process and helps you choose training that matches in-demand careers.

You can receive up to $28,000 for training programs that take one year or less to complete, or up to $35,000 for programs lasting up to two years. The exact amount depends on your individual needs, the program you choose, and available funding. This can cover tuition, books, instructional costs, transportation, basic living allowance (up to $500/week), childcare, and disability-related supports.

Better Jobs Ontario provides financial support that is designed to be non-repayable for participants who meet program requirements and complete their approved training. Unlike student loans, this is government funding intended to help you gain new skills without taking on debt. However, you must work with your Employment Ontario advisor to ensure you meet all program conditions.

Better Jobs Ontario funding can cover a comprehensive range of expenses including tuition fees, textbooks and course materials, student fees and supplies, electronic devices (laptops/tablets), transportation costs, basic living allowance up to $500 per week, childcare expenses, disability-related supports, living away from home costs, and language training if needed. The specific support you receive is based on your individual circumstances and the program you’re enrolled in.

You may qualify if you’ve been laid off and are not currently working (or working only temporarily), have been unemployed for 12 weeks or longer and are part of a low-income household, or are receiving Employment Insurance (EI), Ontario Works (OW), or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). You must be an Ontario resident seeking to retrain for an in-demand career. This includes gig workers, contract workers, self-employed individuals, and those working below their skill level.

Yes! Self-employed individuals, gig workers, and contract workers can apply for Better Jobs Ontario if they need to retrain for more stable employment opportunities. The program recognizes that many Ontarians work in non-traditional employment situations and may benefit from skills training to transition into careers with more security and growth potential.

The timeline varies depending on individual circumstances, but the process typically involves several steps: finding an Employment Ontario service provider (immediate), scheduling an assessment interview (within 1-2 weeks), completing your application with advisor support (1-2 weeks), and awaiting approval (timeframes vary by region and funding availability). Your service provider will give you a better estimate based on your specific situation and local processing times.

Eligible programs include those offered by Ontario colleges of applied arts and technology, private career colleges, and other approved training institutions. Programs must be 52 weeks or less (for up to $28,000) or up to 2 years in duration (for up to $35,000) and lead to in-demand careers. This includes certificates, diplomas, micro-credentials, skilled trades, healthcare, technology, business, and many other fields. Your Employment Ontario advisor will help you identify programs that qualify.

You cannot apply directly online. Instead, you must work with an Employment Ontario service provider in your community. To start: 1) Find a service provider near you using the Employment Ontario locator, 2) Contact them to schedule an assessment interview, 3) Meet with your advisor to discuss your situation and career goals, 4) Complete your application with their support, including gathering required documentation, 5) Submit your application through the service provider. They will guide you through every step of the process.