Canadian Biosciences Companies Receive National Investment to Propel Digital Transformation

OTTAWA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BioTalent Canada announced a new wage subsidy program today that will accelerate the adoption of digital skills by small- and medium-sized businesses in Canada’s biosciences sector, better positioning them to succeed in the global knowledge-based economy.

Funded in part by the federal government’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy Program, BioTalent Canada’s Digital Skills for Youth program will invest $1.2 million to help underemployed post-secondary graduates enhance and develop digital and soft skills through work and training opportunities within Canadian biotech employers.

“Canada is home to some of the most educated people in the world, yet the bio-economy continues to lag in attracting and developing the talent needed for Canada to be seen as a leader in innovation,” says Rob Henderson, President and CEO of BioTalent Canada. “The skills of the future will include a deep understanding of technology and its benefits for advancing society. Programs like Digital Skills for Youth will be essential in growing a sector critical to the Canadian economy.”

As a leader in building talent management strategies for Canada’s health and biosciences sectors, BioTalent Canada provides organizations with products and services to attract the best and brightest. Since 2005, they have placed over 14,000 people in the industry.

“The rapid adoption of technologies such as artificial intelligence and 3D printing is compelling businesses to evolve at an unprecedented pace,” adds Henderson. “We are thrilled to provide our stakeholders with an additional tool to expedite their innovations, propelling Canada to the forefront of digital discoveries.”

Eligible employers will receive up to 80% in wage subsidy funding, to a maximum amount of $24,000 (a combination of wage subsidies and training).

“In today’s ever-changing digital landscape, young Canadians need the best possible tools to thrive in their careers and make Canada a world leader in tomorrow’s economy. Through the Digital Skills for Youth program, we are helping recent graduates gain real-life work experience to prepare for, and succeed in, the jobs of tomorrow.”

– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

For more information on how your organization can participate in the program, visit biotalent.ca/digitalskills.

Funded in part by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

About BioTalent Canada

BioTalent Canada supports the people behind life-changing science. Trusted as the go-to source for labour market intelligence, BioTalent Canada guides bio-economy stakeholders with evidence-based data and industry-driven standards. BioTalent Canada is focused on igniting the industry’s brainpower, bridging the gap between job-ready talent and employers, and ensuring the long-term agility, resiliency, and sustainability of one of Canada’s most vital sectors.

Recently named a Great Place to Work® and Best Workplaces in Healthcare for 2023, by Great Place to Work Canada®, as well as being listed as a Best Workplace by HRD Canada for 2023 and a 5-Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employer by Canadian HR Reporter, BioTalent Canada practices the same industry standards it recommends to stakeholders. These varied distinctions were awarded to BioTalent Canada following a thorough and independent analysis of the organization.

For more information, please visit biotalent.ca.