The Ontario government is committing more than $1 billion to protect workers and businesses caught in the fallout of U.S. trade tariffs, unveiling two major support programs this month.
Premier Doug Ford announced $70 million in new funding to expand training and re-employment supports. The investment includes $20 million for Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response (POWER) Centres and $50 million for Better Jobs Ontario. POWER Centres will provide rapid-response assistance for workers at risk of layoffs, offering retraining and job search supports, while Better Jobs Ontario will expand access to grants of up to $35,000 for tuition, transportation and child care.
“Ontario has the best workers in the world. When their livelihoods are threatened by decisions in Washington, we won’t leave them behind,” Ford said. Labour Minister David Piccini added that the province is “meeting the moment” by ensuring Ontarians have the tools to land secure, good-paying jobs.
Separately, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy announced the launch of the Protect Ontario Financing Program, offering $1 billion in loans to Ontario-based businesses in the steel, aluminum and auto sectors. The funding, part of the $5 billion Protecting Ontario Account, will help companies cover costs like payroll, leases and utilities to avoid closures and layoffs.
Bethlenfalvy said the program ensures “workers stay on the job” and businesses maintain critical supply chains. Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli added the relief will help industries weather current challenges while positioning Ontario to seize future opportunities.
Applications for financing are now open through the province’s new online eligibility tool.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
