BioTalent — Career Starter Program ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Bio-economy employers across Canada (biotech, biomanufacturing, bioprocessing, synthetic biology sectors) - For-profit businesses of any size engaged in bio-economy activities - Non-profit organizations operating in the bio-economy sector - Research institutions and universities with commercialization or industry partnerships - Employers must be registered with a valid Canadian business number (CBN) - Employers must demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusive hiring practices ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Size: Up to 60% of eligible wage costs (maximum $20,000 per placement) - Duration: Covers 3 to 9-month job placements - Repayability: Non-repayable grant (funds do not need to be returned) - Matching: Employer covers minimum 40% of wage costs - Payment Structure: Typically reimbursed after eligible expenses are incurred and documented - Number of Placements: May support multiple placements per eligible employer (subject to program availability and budget) ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Employee wages/salaries for the subsidized placement period - Employee benefits (health insurance, CPP, EI contributions) - Training and onboarding costs directly related to the placement - Mentorship and supervision allocable to the new employee - Safety and compliance training required for the role - Reasonable accommodation expenses to support diversity hires - Wages must align with prevailing industry standards for the role and region ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Diversity Requirement: Positions must target underrepresented groups (women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+, recent immigrants) - Job Permanence: Strong expectation that successful placements lead to permanent or extended employment - Placement Duration: Minimum 3 months; maximum 9 months for subsidy eligibility - Documentation: Maintain payroll records, timesheets, and proof of employment throughout placement