People & Talent Program — Indigenous Workforce Development Stream ### 📋 Eligible Entities - For-profit businesses (all sizes and sectors) - Not-for-profit organizations - Municipalities - Indigenous communities (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit organizations) - Social enterprises - Organizations must be legally registered in Canada and in good standing ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Conditional contribution (non-repayable) - Coverage: Funding covers a portion of: - Indigenous intern's salary costs - Employer's portion of mandatory employment-related costs (MERCs), including: - Employment Insurance (EI) - Canada Pension Plan (CPP) - Workers' compensation premiums - Funding Model: Cost-sharing arrangement (organization covers remaining salary/MERC costs) - Duration: Typically 4–12 months per intern placement - Maximum per Intern: Varies by province/region; check program guidelines for specific caps ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Intern salary (up to specified hourly/salary limits) - Employer-paid MERCs: - Employment Insurance contributions - Canada Pension Plan contributions - Workers' compensation insurance premiums - Interns must work in meaningful roles aligned with organizational needs - Salary must meet or exceed minimum wage and be competitive for the role ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Indigenous Status Requirement: Interns must be self-identified Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit) - Employment Agreement: Formal written agreement required between organization and intern - Reporting: Regular reporting on intern hours, wages paid, and skill development - Job Quality Standards: Positions must offer genuine work experience and skill-building opportunities - Timeline: Application, approval, and placement must follow program intake windows - Fund Reconciliation: Organizations must reconcile actual expenses against approved budget - Compliance: Adherence to employment standards and wage requirements mandatory - Non-Displacement: Internship positions cannot replace existing full-