🇨🇦 Canada’s Student Work Placement Program 2025: 40,000 New Job Opportunities
In a major effort to support student career development and economic growth, the Government of Canada has announced the creation of 40,000 new work-integrated learning opportunities through the expanded Student Work Placement Program (SWPP).
With a $207.6 million investment outlined in Budget 2024, this initiative aims to give post-secondary students real-world experience across sectors that are vital to Canada’s economy—ranging from technology and health sciences to green energy and entrepreneurship.
🔗 Official Announcement
🔗 List of Partner Organizations
Why the Expansion Matters in 2025
Canada continues to face a nationwide skills shortage across critical industries. To address this, the government is helping employers bring students into the workforce earlier through paid internships, co-op roles, hackathons, virtual placements, and micro-internships.
“Hands-on work experience gives post-secondary students the training and confidence they need to transition into today’s labour market,” said Minister of Jobs and Families, Steven MacKinnon.
Fast Facts About the SWPP
- Over 57,000 students participated in 2023–24.
- Since 2017, the program has funded 249,000+ placements.
- 43% of placements went to students from underrepresented groups.
- 380+ post-secondary institutions have taken part.
- The 2025–26 expansion adds 40,000+ new placements.
Key Industries and Organizations Involved
The SWPP funds are distributed to trusted organizations across Canada, helping to place students in meaningful roles across multiple sectors:
| Organization | Funding | Sector |
|---|---|---|
| ICT Council | $22.2M | Information and Communications Tech |
| TECHNATION | $22.5M | Technology and Innovation |
| ECO Canada | $8.4M | Environmental Careers |
| BioTalent Canada | $15.8M | Biotech and Health Sciences |
| Toronto Metropolitan University | $23.6M | Multidisciplinary |
| Electricity HR Canada | $2.2M | Energy and Utilities |
| Venture for Canada | $11.8M | Entrepreneurship |
| Riipen | $18.8M | Virtual Internships |
| CEWIL Canada | $18.8M | Education and Innovation |
Real-World Skills That Set Students Apart
SWPP roles allow students to gain experience, build professional networks, and apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. From biotechnology labs to cloud computing teams, students are placed in environments that help them launch their careers faster.
Many opportunities are virtual, offering flexibility for students in rural or remote areas, and those with mobility or accessibility challenges.
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Building Canada’s Future Workforce
This expansion is designed to prepare young Canadians for future-focused careers in areas like:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Clean Technology
- Digital Marketing
- Aerospace
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Advanced Manufacturing
Startups and small businesses are also encouraged to participate, with the government offering wage subsidies to reduce hiring costs and bring in student talent.
How Students Can Find a Placement
Students from any academic background—including STEM, arts, agriculture, or business—can benefit. You can explore placements through these official partner portals:
- 🔗 ECO Canada
- 🔗 ICTC Internship Portal
- 🔗 TECHNATION Career Ready
- 🔗 Magnet SWPP
- 🔗 Riipen Level UP
- 🔗 Venture for Canada
Conclusion
Canada’s bold investment in the Student Work Placement Program is a long-term strategy to ensure students are not only job-ready but also equipped to help drive the country’s economy forward.
Whether you’re a student looking to build your career or an employer seeking future talent, this expansion opens the door to growth, learning, and lasting impact.
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