ECO Canada — Digital Skills for Youth ### 📋 Eligible Entities - For-profit businesses operating in Canada - Non-profit organizations focused on environmental sectors - Social enterprises with environmental mandates - Indigenous-led organizations in environmental fields - Educational institutions offering environmental programs - Government agencies (federal, provincial, municipal) in environmental roles - Organizations must be registered in Canada and in good standing with CRA ### 💰 Funding Details - Maximum Grant Amount: $18,000 per internship - Coverage Rate: Up to 80% of eligible wage and training costs - Employer Contribution: Minimum 20% match required (can be in-kind) - Grant Type: Non-repayable funding (grant, not a loan) - Payment Structure: Typically reimbursement-based after expenses are incurred and documented - Number of Internships: Multiple internships per organization may be eligible ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Intern wages/salary for the duration of the 3+ month placement - Training costs directly related to digital skills development - Digital tools and software subscriptions used during internship - Mentorship and supervision time (in some cases) - Equipment necessary for digital work (laptops, software licenses) - Online certification courses in digital competencies - Expenses must be environment-sector related ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Internship Duration: Minimum 3 months required - Digital Skills Requirement: Position must require measurable digital abilities (coding, data analysis, GIS, digital marketing, etc.) - Environmental Focus: Job must be in recognized environmental sectors (conservation, renewable energy, sustainability, etc.) - Matching Contribution: Employer must contribute minimum 20% of eligible costs - Reporting: Progress reports and final outcomes documentation required - Employment Standards: Intern must be paid minimum wage or higher per provincial standards - Eligibility Verification: Applicant organization must pass financial and compliance review - Deadline Compliance: Applications must be submitted before funding cycles close