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By Ryan Remati-Paquette
December 5, 2025

Who Can Apply for Canada Summer Jobs: Eligibility Guide

Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) is a federal program offering wage subsidies to help employers create summer employment opportunities for young Canadians aged 15 to 30. This initiative not only supports youth employment but also assists organizations in building a skilled future workforce. Understanding who can apply is essential to leverage this funding opportunity effectively.

Overview of Eligible Applicants

The Canada Summer Jobs program is open to a wide range of Canadian employers. Eligible applicants include:

  • Not-for-profit organizations: These can receive funding covering up to 100% of the provincial or territorial minimum wage.

  • Public sector employers: Such employers, along with private sector organizations, are eligible for up to 50% of the minimum wage.

  • Private sector employers: Those with 50 or fewer full-time employees can apply.

To determine if your organization can apply, consider the type of entity and the number of employees. For complete eligibility requirements, see the complete program guide.

Applicant Type Requirements

Not-for-Profit Organizations

Not-for-profit organizations are prominently supported by the CSJ program. These organizations benefit from the highest level of wage subsidy. They must be registered and operate within Canada.

Public and Private Sector Employers

Public sector entities such as municipalities and private companies with fewer than 50 full-time employees are also eligible. These employers can access a subsidy of up to 50% of the applicable provincial or territorial minimum wage.

Geographic Eligibility

While CSJ is a national program, applicants must ensure their projects align with local priorities. Employers should consider the location of the job activities and ensure they fit within regional funding objectives. For detailed geographic eligibility, consult the complete program guide.

Project and Activity Requirements

Eligible projects typically focus on creating meaningful summer work experiences that benefit both youth and the community. Projects should be safe, inclusive, and offer valuable skills development opportunities. Activities must comply with federal and provincial employment standards.

Ineligible Applicants

Certain organizations, including those with more than 50 full-time employees or those not registered in Canada, may not qualify. Additionally, projects that do not provide a safe or inclusive work environment are generally not funded.

Special Cases and Exceptions

Joint applications between organizations may be considered, particularly if they aim to address specific community needs. Indigenous organizations and those focusing on social enterprises are encouraged to apply, reflecting the program’s commitment to diverse community support.

Conclusion

Understanding who can apply for the Canada Summer Jobs program is crucial for securing funding to support youth employment. This guide provides a foundational overview, but for a comprehensive understanding, including detailed application steps and criteria, please refer to the complete program guide. By aligning your application with the program’s objectives, your organization can contribute significantly to youth employment and development in Canada.

About the author

Ryan Remati-Paquette - Canadian grants specialist

Ryan Remati-Paquette

Canadian grants specialist
Working at helloDarwin for some time now, I'm in charge of providing you with the information you need on government aid. Dedicated to helping companies in Quebec and Canada reach their full potential, I write on the helloDarwin blog about the various programs, allowances and funding available to enable organizations to make their digital transformation through access to federal and provincial support.

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