Canada and Alberta Launch $68.5 Million Workforce Tariff Response

Overview

• The Canada–Alberta Workforce Tariff Response, announced Tuesday as an amendment to the Labour Market Development Agreement, commits $68.5 million over three years to help workers and employers facing tariff pressures.
• Funding runs from 2025–26 through 2027–28 and moves through Alberta’s employment and training providers to deliver retraining, upskilling, and rapid re-employment services with a goal to assist at least 7,800 workers.
• Priority sectors include steel, softwood lumber, and related supply chains, with supports available to unemployed and under‑employed people as well as workers in Work‑Sharing arrangements.
• A client service called Employment Connections is now active to contact eligible workers and guide them to the right supports.
• Some funds support Career and Employment Information Services and the Foundational Learning Assistance Program so people can find training and cover education and living costs while upgrading skills.