Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP))
Last Update: September 25, 2025
Canada
Supports union-led training innovation for skilled Red Seal trades
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Financing Type
Partnering and Collaboration
Grant and Funding
Eligible Industries
- Construction
- Manufacturing
Funds Providers
Program status
Closed
Overview
The Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP) provides up to $25 million annually to support union-led projects that enhance apprenticeship training and promote innovation in Red Seal trades across Canada. Eligible activities include the purchase of training equipment and materials, as well as developing innovative solutions and partnerships to improve workforce quality and inclusivity, especially for underrepresented groups.
Financing terms and conditions
- The program provides $25 million in total annual funding through two streams.
Activities funded
- Acquisition of training equipment and materials for Red Seal trades.
- Implementation of innovative projects to address apprenticeship challenges.
- Development of partnerships between unions and other organizations to enhance apprenticeship training.
- Initiatives aimed at increasing the participation of underrepresented groups in the skilled trades.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 170,000
Expanding digital tools for electrical apprentice remote learning
$ 211,000
Innovative partnerships for sheet metal apprenticeship with women outreach
$ 150,000
Purchasing inclusive plumbing training setups for diverse apprentices
$ 273,000
Creating a mobile carpentry training lab for remote communities
$ 280,000
Upgrading welding simulators to modernize apprenticeship instruction
$ 200,000
Developing green HVAC training kits for environmental apprenticeships
Eligibility
- The project must be led or involve a union.
- The training or initiative must target Red Seal trades.
- Projects should focus on either purchasing training equipment/materials or implementing innovative approaches to address apprenticeship challenges.
- Partnerships between organizations are encouraged, with required union participation.
Who is eligible?
- Union-led organizations involved in Red Seal trades
Who is not eligible
- Projects that are not union-led or do not involve union participation cannot apply.
Eligible expenses
- Purchase of equipment needed to train workers in the Red Seal trades.
- Purchase of materials required for workforce training in the Red Seal trades.
Eligible geographic areas
- All provinces and territories across Canada
How to apply
1
Confirm project eligibility
- Review the eligibility criteria for both funding streams
- Identify if your project aligns with Red Seal trade training or innovation priorities
- Ensure union involvement in your project proposal
2
Collect required information
- Gather information on equipment, training needs, or innovative approaches
- Build partnerships as required by the program
- Collect supporting documents such as evidence of union leadership or involvement
3
Complete the application form
- Prepare a detailed application that clearly states objectives, expected outcomes, and alignment with program goals
- Include focus on target groups such as women, Indigenous people, newcomers, persons with disabilities, or visible minorities as applicable
- Ensure completeness of all required forms and documents
4
Submit your application
- Submit the application through the specified government portal or to the designated contact
- Confirm receipt of submission from the program
Additional information
- The program is administered by Employment and Social Development Canada.
- The objective is to improve both the quality of training and workforce inclusivity in the skilled trades sector across Canada.
- The program targets increased participation from underrepresented groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, persons with disabilities, and visible minorities.
- The information provided was last updated on July 17, 2024.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP)) Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP)). This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP))?
How much funding can be received?
What expenses are eligible under Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP))?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP)) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP))?
Who is eligible for the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP)) program?
Who can I contact for more information about the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP))?
Where is the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP)) available?
Are women eligible for the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP)) program?
Are Indigenous Peoples eligible for the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy (CAS) - Union Training and Innovation (UTIP)) program?
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