Graduate to Opportunity — GTO Innovate

📋 Eligible Entities - Private sector businesses operating in Canada - For-profit corporations of any size - Self-employed individuals and sole proprietors - Social enterprises (in some provinces) - Businesses must be registered and in good standing with CRA - Must have a valid business number - Non-eligible: Non-profits, government agencies, educational institutions (as employers) ### 💰 Funding Details - Subsidy amount: Up to 30% of first-year salary + up to 15% of second-year salary - Maximum eligible salary: Based on position requirements (minimum $60,000/year threshold) - Total subsidy duration: 24 months (Year 1 + Year 2) - Grant type: Non-repayable wage subsidy (forgivable) - No matching requirement: 100% government-funded; employer absorbs remaining salary costs - Payment structure: Typically issued bi-weekly or monthly based on payroll records ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Direct payroll costs for the hired recent graduate (eligible salary portion only) - Wages paid to the new employee in an innovation-focused role - Eligible positions: Roles requiring innovation, R&D, product development, technology advancement, or digital transformation - Employee benefits and statutory payroll deductions (if included in salary calculation) - Not eligible: Contract workers, independent contractors, or existing employee raises ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Graduate requirement: Employee must have completed a Master's or PhD within the past 24 months (or as specified by program rules) - Minimum salary threshold: Position must pay at least $60,000 annually to qualify - Job duration: Employee must remain in role for minimum 12 months (or program forfeits subsidy) - Innovation job classification: Role must demonstrate connection to innovation, R&D, or strategic business advancement - Documentation required: Proof of degree, employment contract, payroll records, job description - Attestation: Employer confirms this is a new position (not replacement of existing role) - **