Canada is doubling down on its commitment to prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow. The federal government confirmed a new investment in Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), a program that connects students directly with Canadian businesses through internships, co-ops, and industry-focused projects.
By March 2028, the program aims to deliver 8,000 new placements for post-secondary students and onboard 2,500 private-sector employers. The goal is to ensure students gain real-world experience while businesses benefit from fresh talent pipelines.
Special attention will be given to francophone students and minority language communities, with targeted outreach to improve access and inclusion. This aligns with the federal government’s broader policy to strengthen bilingualism and support economic development in Quebec and francophone regions nationwide.
“By strengthening connections between students and employers, we are building a workforce that is innovative, inclusive, and ready to meet the needs of the future economy,” said François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
The program will be implemented by the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER), a national organization dedicated to fostering collaboration between employers and educational institutions. BHER will provide tools, training, and a platform for businesses of all sizes to engage with students across the country.
Key Takeaways for Canadian Business
- Businesses gain access to a pipeline of skilled students, reducing recruitment costs and training time.
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can benefit from government support to participate in WIL programs.
- Focusing on francophone participation enhances diversity and supports bilingual business environments.
- Employers who engage early can build long-term relationships with Canada’s future workforce.
- Strengthening business–academia ties improves Canada’s global competitiveness.
Source: Government of Canada
