Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Anishinabek Employment & Training Services (AETS)

Anishinabek Employment & Training Services (AETS) is an Indigenous-led employment and training organization serving several First Nations communities in the North Superior region of Ontario, within the Robinson-Superior Treaty area. AETS is an Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program Agreement Holder under Employment and Social Development Canada, which provides financial assistance to AETS to deliver employment and training programs and related services.

Through this mandate, AETS administers a portfolio of client-based and project-based funding supports. These mechanisms help First Nations citizens improve their skills, access training, and secure and maintain employment, while respecting Anishinabek culture and traditions.

AETS offers a range of client-based supports that effectively function as grants or subsidies to individuals. These include course purchases and training allowances, disability supports, employment maintenance and upskilling assistance, employment start-up costs, feepayer supports, mobility assistance, pre-employment supports, relocation and moving expenses, self-employment benefits, and wage subsidies. These tools reduce financial barriers to training and work, helping clients enter or remain in the labour market.

On the project-based side, AETS can support organizations, employers, and communities through delivery assistance, project-based training, group course purchases and allowances, job creation partnerships, job development initiatives, workplace-based training, and project-based self-employment benefits and wage subsidies. These programs are designed to respond to local labour market needs by funding targeted training projects and employment opportunities for First Nations citizens.

AETS primarily serves member First Nations in the North Superior region, including communities such as Animbiigoo Zaagi'igan Anishinaabek, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek, Michipicoten First Nation, Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg, Pays Plat First Nation and Red Rock Indian Band. The organization focuses on Indigenous job seekers, workers seeking upskilling, and employers willing to create training and employment opportunities.

AETS actively builds partnerships with educational institutions, employers, industry organizations, and governments. Past and current partners include First Nations organizations, colleges, mining and construction employers, sector councils, and economic development funds. Collaborations with federal and provincial departments help leverage additional resources and align funded projects with broader labour market strategies.

The mission of AETS is to provide guided education and training pathways leading to inclusive employment opportunities that are respectful of Indigenous culture. Its funding and support programs aim to reduce skills and employment gaps for First Nations citizens, contributing to a skilled Indigenous workforce and stronger community economies in Northwestern Ontario.