Businesses across Surrey and the Fraser Valley are constantly adapting to new technologies, regulations, and market demands. One provincial program designed to help employers keep up is the B.C. Employer Training Grant (ETG) — a cost-sharing initiative that helps businesses pay for training and professional development for their employees. A Smart Opportunity for Surrey Employers …
Businesses across Surrey and the Fraser Valley are constantly adapting to new technologies, regulations, and market demands. One provincial program designed to help employers keep up is the B.C. Employer Training Grant (ETG) — a cost-sharing initiative that helps businesses pay for training and professional development for their employees.
A Smart Opportunity for Surrey Employers
As Surrey continues to grow as one of the fastest-expanding cities in British Columbia, workforce development will play an increasingly important role in local business success.
For employers willing to invest in their people, the B.C. Employer Training Grant offers a practical way to build skills, strengthen teams, and prepare for the future of work — while sharing the cost with the province.
Administered through WorkBC and supported by the Ministry of Post‑Secondary Education and Future Skills, the program helps employers build stronger teams while improving job security and career opportunities for workers across the province.
For many local companies, the program can represent a significant opportunity to invest in workforce development without taking on the full cost of training.
What Is the B.C. Employer Training Grant?
The B.C. Employer Training Grant is a provincial funding program that helps employers cover the cost of training their workforce. The goal is to help British Columbians develop new skills while ensuring businesses have access to the talent they need as industries evolve.
Under the program, employers can receive:
- Up to 80% of eligible training costs
- Up to $10,000 per employee
- Up to $300,000 per employer annually
Training can be used to support existing employees or prospective new hires, helping workers gain new certifications, technical skills, or professional credentials that support career growth.
For businesses facing labour shortages or technological change, the grant can significantly reduce the financial barrier to investing in employee development.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the program, applicants must be:
- An employer or self-employed individual operating in British Columbia
- Fully operational for at least one year
- In good standing with the Province of British Columbia
Eligible businesses can range from small family-owned companies to large enterprises, making the program widely accessible across industries including construction, hospitality, retail, manufacturing, technology, and professional services.
Employers can apply for funding multiple times, depending on their training needs and program availability.
How Surrey Businesses Could Use the Grant
For many employers, the real value of the program becomes clear when you see how it can be used in practice. Here are a few examples of how local businesses might take advantage of the funding.
Construction Company Upskilling Its Crew
A growing construction firm in Surrey recently secured several new projects but needed workers certified in advanced equipment operation and safety compliance.
Using the Employer Training Grant, the company enrolled six employees in a specialized training program. With 80% of the training costs covered, the company was able to upgrade its workforce quickly while keeping project timelines on track.
For the employees, the training resulted in higher qualifications and improved job security.
Restaurant Investing in Leadership Development
A busy restaurant group in South Surrey wanted to promote two experienced staff members into management roles. However, both employees lacked formal hospitality leadership training.
Through the grant program, the company funded restaurant management and leadership courses for the two employees.
The result:
- Staff gained professional management skills
- The business developed internal leadership rather than hiring externally
- Employee retention improved
For small businesses especially, this type of training investment can have a lasting impact.
Current Program Status
The grant program operates on a continuous intake model, but funding is allocated annually.
According to program administrators, the budget for the 2024/25 fiscal year has already been fully allocated, though some communities participating in provincial transition initiatives may still qualify.
Applications for the 2025/26 fiscal year opened in March 2025, and employers interested in applying are encouraged to review eligibility requirements early.
Where to Learn More
Employers interested in applying or learning more about the program can contact WorkBC, which serves as the provincial government’s primary resource for employment services and labour market support.
Contact Information
Phone: 250-952-6914
Toll-Free: 1-877-952-6914
Email: ETG@gov.bc.ca
