Premier blames 'mismanagement' of immigration system for high rates of joblessness among young people
Alberta has announced it is providing $8 million for a new Alberta Youth Employment Incentive, which will provide grants to employers to offset costs associated with hiring, training and employing youth from age 15-24.
The initiative is expected to support around 1,000 businesses to hire 2,500 young Albertans.
In making the announcement, Premier Danielle Smith criticized the federal government’s actions.
“A first job is a critical component of starting adulthood. But, right now, thanks to the mismanagement of our immigration system by the federal government, youth are being left out of the economy... misuse of international student visas and the uncapping of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, particularly for low skilled workers, have led to thousands of young people being unable to find employment, despite sometimes applying for dozens or even hundreds of jobs,” she said.
“The federal government must immediately make major changes to their immigration policies, or we would risk failing an entire generation of young Canadians.”
Smith went on to cite the high rates of youth unemployment, referencing a recent report from Desjardins that stated youth unemployment “consistently exceeds the national average,” with the unemployment rate of 15- to 24-year-olds being more than twice as high as those between 25 and 54 — a gap not often seen outside of recessions.
Hiring incentives for employers
Beginning in October 2025, employers in Alberta will be eligible for one of two incentive amounts. Those who hire 1-2 young workers for a combined total of at least 400 hours, will be eligible to receive $4,000.
Employers who hire 3-5 young workers with a combined total of at least 750 hours, will be eligible to receive $7,500. Through this initiative, Alberta’s government is helping pay $10 of the hourly wage for young workers.
The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive will be managed by CAREERS – a not-for-profit organization that helps young people connect with employment. CAREERS will be responsible for delivering grants, determining eligibility and ensuring employers have the information they need if questions arise regarding the initiative. Once the incentive is available, applications by employers will be made through the CAREERS website.
“This new incentive will offset the training and hiring costs of Albertans between the ages of 15 and 24 giving employers some financial stability and giving Alberta youth that all important work experience,” said Smith in making the announcement.
“To the Alberta employers out there, I strongly encourage you to take us up on this incentive and to take a chance on the young people in our province. This is the next generation of Albertans we're talking about.”
Alberta has the fastest growing population in Canada among youth, 15 to 24, which creates “significant competition” for young workers, especially those entering the workforce for the very first time, said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration, at the press conference.
“We also hear of extra costs as a result of raising minimum wage and other expenses, as they have pushed more employers to look for cheaper ways of operating, including automation, which we often see in the form of self-serve kiosks at restaurants and grocery stores,” he said.
“We're excited to be kick-starting job opportunities for young people who call our province home. An investment of $8 million will help businesses have the confidence they need to bring more youth onto their team.”
Digital badge for Alberta youth
In addition, Alberta’s government is developing a digital badge for youth who have worked a minimum of 200 hours and pass a skills-verified employer assessment.
This badge can be highlighted on resumes, helping businesses know they are hiring a young person who has demonstrated and developed meaningful skills in a workplace.
The initiative will help employers, according to Schow.
“This is something that can help employers build trust in younger workers, as it can be highlighted on resumes and online profiles such as LinkedIn, giving employers a quick reference to know that this youth has already shown valuable characteristics in their Ability to work.”
