This week’s federal budget included several new investments that will affect publicly funded employment services, and by extension, ASPECT members and the communities we serve. While many of the programs begin in 2026–27, they signal renewed federal attention on workforce development, youth employment, and community-based innovation. Here are some highlights for employment services:

• Workforce Alliances and Innovation Fund – $382.9 million over five years to support sector- and region-specific workforce solutions. This could fund collaborative, community-based projects that reflect local needs, particularly in rural and remote areas.

• Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) – An additional $570 million over three years will flow to provinces and territories for training and employment supports. ASPECT will continue advocating that BC’s share of funding fully recognizes the costs faced by community-based employment service providers.

• Youth Employment Initiatives – Renewed investments in Canada Summer Jobs, the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, and the Student Work Placement Program will create approximately 175,000 youth opportunities, including for those facing barriers.

• Foreign Credential Recognition & Apprenticeships – $97 million for credential recognition (health and construction) and $75 million for expanded union training programs.

• Canada Disability Benefit & Automatic Benefits – Modest but positive steps to improve income stability and simplify benefit access for people with disabilities and low-income Canadians.
  
  

These initiatives recognize that effective employment services start in communities and not at the top of government. They present opportunities for ASPECT members to lead pilot projects, strengthen partnerships, and ensure BC’s community-based providers have a voice in federal implementation.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll monitor how these commitments flow through the province and share opportunities to engage. Put your thinking caps on for ideas or local projects that align with these new investments.

Janet Morris-Reade
CEO, ASPECT BC