In February 2023, Palette Skills was selected as a lead recipient of the Upskilling for Industry Initiative.
What is the Upskilling for Industry Initiative
The Upskilling for Industry Initiative places employers at the forefront of identifying the skills needs of high-growth sectors. By fostering partnerships between employers and training providers, the initiative seeks to develop and deliver demand-driven short cycle upskilling programs to meet the needs of employers.
The Government of Canada sought a lead recipient to deliver this initiative nationally in collaboration with partners. The initiative will benefit businesses in high-growth sectors adjust to changing skills requirements by providing access to a competitive workforce. It also is expected to help more than 15,000 Canadians, including those from underrepresented groups, connect with new work opportunities. Ultimately, the initiative will foster a more responsive training ecosystem and support Canada's overall economic growth.
About the call for applications
The Government of Canada held an open call for applications for the Upskilling for Industry Initiative in spring 2022 to select one or a limited number of lead recipient(s) to enter into a three-year contribution agreement(s) of up to $250 million. Applications of at least $15 million for sectoral or regional specific interventions were also considered to increase the initiative's overall reach and ensure that it achieves its objectives.
Applications had to address how to advance upskilling projects the following high-growth sectors: digital technology, cyber security, agriculture technology, advanced manufacturing, clean technology, and biomanufacturing. Applicants could also propose additional high-growth sectors based on their analysis and expertise.
The assessment of applications was based on eligibility and merit criteria, outlined in the applicant guide, with the preference being to identify a pan-Canadian solution via a single lead recipient.