Common Sense Tips for Wage Subsidy Application

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Common Sense Tips for Wage Subsidy Application

By Rosemary Pon
Human Resources Consultant - RJP Ventures Inc

As employers, we have all heard that there is funding support for creating employment, subsidizing wages and training but where are they? Some employers are frustrated applying for a subsidy, others have become cynical about the existence of such financial support. For employers who wish to apply for employment subsidies, we have included some practical, common sense tips that are helpful when applying for subsidies. We also encourage that you check out the following useful websites where employment subsidies may be available on a federal and provincial level.

Understand the current economic situation in your region - Subsidies are more readily available to employers in certain regions of Canada, depending upon the economic situation in those specific areas. Government aims to create employment in economically depressed regions.

Understand the key purpose for the subsidy - All subsidies are developed with a specific purpose in mind. The funding maybe aimed at addressing a skills shortage problem, providing simple work experience, or is the targeted toward a segment of the labor force that is experiencing difficulty securing employment or is underemployed.

Review the funding criteria thoroughly - Each subsidy has a specific set of criteria that must be adhered to. By carefully reviewing these criteria and abiding by these terms will save you time and eliminate frustrations.

Note the subsidy deadline date - Money allotted by the Government for employment subsidies are limited and the window of opportunity may be brief. It is important to keep abreast of when such funding becomes available and to note the deadline for the specific financial subsidy application. Check for regular updates on the various subsidy programs.

Complete your application fully and accurately - Your attentiveness to the details of the subsidy application and your accuracy in completing the form will be representative of you. Create a positive impression on the subsidy reviewer.

Create a job opportunity that increases your staff count - The goals of almost all subsidies are to create additional employment opportunities. Subsidy reviewers view displacement of any current staff member to be negative and creation of permanent employment as very positive.

Prepare and attach a well-written, concise job description that is career related - More often than not, opportunities that are career-related will be viewed more favorably. A separate sheet that defines the job and the qualifications required should be attached to subsidy applications that do not allow enough space for one to clearly describe the job.

Prepare and attach a clearly written training outline - For some subsidies, there may be a requirement for an employer to supply a training outline for the participant. Be clear as to who will conduct training, what skills will be taught and when goals will be met.

Nurture and establish a specific contact - Take the time to network, nurture and establish a professional relationship with the individual who evaluates your application. If your application is denied, be respectful. Do not hesitate to ask the reviewer for an explanation why your application failed to meet the agency's requirements. Understanding the deficiencies of your application will allow you to make the necessary amendments for future subsidies.

Check out these websites for various subsidies:

The Business Link
Provincial and federal grant programs including wage subsidy programs

Industry Canada