BioTalent Canada Welcomes the Federal Government’s Three-year Funding Commitment for the Student Work Placement Program

OTTAWA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BioTalent Canada applauds the Government of Canada’s decision in Budget 2025 to grant a further 3-year extension to the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP). This important step signals that Canada is treating youth employment and skills development as a strategic, long-term investment in our workforce development and economic sovereignty.

“Today’s announcement is a very positive one for young Canadians, for employers, and for Canada’s competitiveness,” said Rob Henderson, President & CEO of BioTalent Canada. “By making SWPP a fixture on the talent landscape for the foreseeable future, the government is unlocking stable pathways into meaningful work for young talent and helping employers build the future-ready workforce we so urgently need.”

The Student Work Placement Program over its 8-year lifetime, has delivered strong outcomes: by linking post-secondary students with meaningful, paid work opportunities, the program helps translate classroom learning into on-the-job experience, gives employers access to emerging talent, and strengthens Canada’s labour market resilience. The extension is reflective of the current program’s high rate of satisfaction among employers and students, the partnerships forged, and its efficiency in delivery.

Mr. Henderson added: “This isn’t simply good news, it’s a signal that Canada values its young people, invests in their potential, and expects them to be part of the solution to our national productivity and innovation challenges. Our job now is to make this commitment count.”

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 contributors with evidence-based data and industry-driven standards. BioTalent Canada, as a workforce development council, 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.

BioTalent Canada has received varied distinctions following a thorough and independent analysis of the organization. By practicing the same industry standards it recommends to partners, the organization has been honored with the following titles:

• Great Place to Work® since 2019 and one of the Best Workplaces in Healthcare for 2023 by Great Place to Work Canada®
• The Best Leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the 2024 Best Ottawa Business Awards
• 2024 Collaboration Catalyst by Magnet Network
• One of Canada’s Best Places to Work by HRD Canada for 2024
• 5-Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employer by Canadian HR Reporter since 2023
• Employer of Choice by Canadian HR Reporter for 2025

For more information, visit biotalent.ca.