Since May 2, 2023, the British Columbia government released the StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan. This plan is meant to make education and training for accessible and affordable for people in B.C. to prepare them for in-demand careers. The government invested $480 million into this plan to help break down barriers to post-secondary education so that employers can find the right people with the right skills for in-demand careers.

This action plan has led to the creation of the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant, now being offered for the second year in a row.

What is the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant?

Grant value: up to $3,500

Since the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant’s introduction in the fall of 2023, over 7,000 people have accessed the grant for short-term skills training in industries such as health care, firefighting, cybersecurity, construction, and more.

Once again, for the fall of 2024, schools in B.C. are offering over 300 programs eligible for the grant to equip students with job-related skills for high-opportunity roles. Students in these programs will have access to skills training opportunities to enhance their skills and competencies, increase their productivity, and advance in their careers. Registration for the fall 2024 semester has opened.

Not sure if a program you might be interested in is eligible for the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant? Check out this list of over 300 programs offered by schools in B.C. that are eligible for the grant.

Am I eligible for the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant?

If you can answer yes to every statement below, then you are eligible for the StrongerBC future skills grant.

• I am a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person entitled to study in Canada.
• I am a B.C. resident.
• I have graduated from grade 12 or equivalent or I am 19 years of age or older.
• I have applied to or are enrolled in an eligible program.

For more information on the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant eligibility, check out the eligibility criteria.

How do I apply for the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant?

Once you’ve decided which program you’d like to enroll in, register directly with the post-secondary institution on EducationPlannerBC. Make sure you tell them you want to use the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant.

After you’ve registered for the training program with the public post-secondary institution, you’ll need to apply for the grant online after August 6, 2024 with your BC Services Card Account. Make sure you have set up your BC Services Card Account. You’ll need your account to log in and the new system will check your eligibility.

Remember to submit your application to the post-secondary institution BEFORE you apply for the grant.

You’re in charge of your future, and now’s the time to take advantage of this grant opportunity to help you in your career. Applications for the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant opens August 6, 2024!