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Source verified May 28, 2026
Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y)
Support for digital skills internships
Latest source updateLast Update: April 26, 2026Latest change: The DS4Y page now includes revised eligibility, funding, dates, application steps, and contact information, plus a new artist residency stream.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: April 26, 2026
Latest change: The DS4Y page now includes revised eligibility, funding, dates, application steps, and contact information, plus a new artist residency stream.
DS4Y program details updated
The DS4Y page has been substantially revised to reflect a broader program structure, including both internship and artist residency opportunities. Eligibility, assessment criteria, eligible activities, funding terms, application deadlines, and contact details have all been updated, with the page now directing applicants to the current IMAA process and support contact. The new version also adds a defined application schedule, funding caps, reimbursement rules, and examples of eligible and ineligible activities, making the program scope and application requirements much more specific than before.
Funding available
$ 30,000
Deadline
September 15, 2026
Location
Canada
Overview
The program offers up to $24,000 in support for paid internships and training. It helps employers host digital skills placements for underemployed post-secondary graduates.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 30,000 $
- Up to 15% of project cost
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Public or Parapublic institution
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- 500 employees maximum
Audience
- Youth (<40)
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Culture and Arts
- Higher Education
- Environment
- Employment and Training
Target groups
- Young adults
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- Academia / students
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- National
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Digital skills internships for youth.
- Artist residencies focused on digital skill development.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Canadian small and medium-sized businesses.
- Non-profit organizations.
- Other eligible organizations, including municipalities, Indigenous organizations, public health and education institutions, and provincial or territorial governments.
Who is not eligible
- Organizations with more than 500 employees.
- Prospective youth interns or artists applying directly.
Eligible expenses
- Intern and artist salaries and benefits.
- Training costs related to youth upskilling.
- Direct costs needed to carry out the placement, such as safety equipment or disability accommodations.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Salaries or honoraria for non-intern staff, except training and mentoring time.
- Host organization equipment, office supplies, and telecommunications fees.
- Administrative costs.
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Selection criteria
- Value of the work experience offered (35%).
- Strength of the recruitment process, including inclusion of underrepresented groups (25%).
- Strength of the training plan (20%).
- Regional and sectoral impact (20%).
How to apply
- Step 1: Review program guidance
- Read the program overview, eligibility details, and application guide from the delivery organization.
- Step 2: Prepare the application
- Prepare the host organization application and required program forms.
- For approved placements, complete the Government of Canada participant information form before the internship begins.
- Step 3: Submit the application
- Submit the application using the method stated by the delivery organization, such as the online process or by email.
- Step 4: Await results
- Receive the decision by email after review.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by a panel of arts professionals selected by IMAA.
- Applications are assessed against published selection criteria.
- Applicants receive results by email 4 to 6 weeks after the deadline.
- Approved applicants must complete the Government of Canada participant information form before the placement begins.
Additional information
- Delivery organizations now offer internship opportunities.
- Organisations can book individual information sessions for questions.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) Program
What is the Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y)?
The program offers up to $24,000 in support for paid internships and training. It helps employers host digital skills placements for underemployed post-secondary graduates.
How much funding can be received?
Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) Funds up to 15% of admissible expenses, capped at $30,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) program?
To be eligible for the Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) program, you must:
Your organization must be seeking interns to apply digital skills.
What expenses are eligible under Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y)?
Digital skills internships for youth.
Artist residencies focused on digital skill development.
Where is the Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) available?
The Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) program is available across Canada.
Is the Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) is a Wage Subsidies And Interns
Who are the financial supporters of the Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y)?
Digital Skills for Youth Program (DS4Y) is funded by Innovation Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)