Losing your job can be stressful, especially when you are unsure about your next career move. However, a layoff may also be an opportunity to learn new skills, explore another industry, and prepare for future employment.
If you live in Ontario and have recently lost your job, Ontario layoff retraining programs may help you move toward a new career without paying all your training expenses yourself.
One important option is Better Jobs Ontario, a government-funded program designed to help eligible individuals access skills training and financial support.
Depending on the duration of the approved training program and your individual financial assessment, you may qualify for funding of up to $28,000 for programs lasting one year or less, or up to $35,000 for programs lasting more than one year and up to two years.
In this guide, Toronto Innovation College explains how Better Jobs Ontario works, who may qualify, what expenses funding can cover, and how to choose a retraining program that supports your career goals.
What Is Better Jobs Ontario?
Better Jobs Ontario is a provincial skills-training funding program that helps eligible unemployed individuals prepare for occupations with employment opportunities.
Previously called the Second Career program, Better Jobs Ontario supports individuals who need new training to return to the workforce.
The program can help cover eligible education costs and certain living expenses while participants complete approved training.
Better Jobs Ontario supports:
- Short-term training programs lasting 52 weeks or less, including eligible micro-credentials.
- Longer training programs lasting more than one year and up to two years.
- Skills development for occupations with demonstrated employment prospects.
- Financial assistance based on individual eligibility and assessed needs.
The objective is to help participants develop relevant skills and improve their opportunities for sustainable employment.
How Much Funding Can You Receive Through Better Jobs Ontario?
Under the Ontario government’s published program guidelines, Better Jobs Ontario offers different funding limits based on program duration.
| Training duration | Maximum funding |
|---|---|
| One year or less | Up to $28,000 |
| More than one year and up to two years | Up to $35,000 |
Funding may support expenses such as:
- Tuition fees
- Textbooks and learning materials
- Other instructional expenses, including eligible supplies and electronic devices
- Transportation
- Basic living expenses, with a living allowance of up to $500 per week
Additional financial support may be available for eligible childcare, disability-related needs, living away from home, or essential-skills training.
Important: These figures are maximum funding limits, not guaranteed payments. The amount approved depends on your circumstances, financial needs assessment, training costs, and applicable program rules.
For updated information, visit the official Better Jobs Ontario funding page.
Who Is Eligible for Better Jobs Ontario in 2026?
One of the most common questions about Ontario layoff retraining is whether a person qualifies for government funding.
According to Ontario’s current published eligibility guidance, you may qualify if you meet one of the following circumstances:
- You have been laid off and are not currently working.
- You have been laid off and are working a temporary job to cover expenses.
- You have not been laid off, but have been unemployed for at least 12 weeks and belong to a low-income household.
You may also be able to apply if you receive Employment Insurance (EI), Ontario Works (OW), or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) assistance.
However, receiving these benefits does not automatically establish eligibility.
Your Employment Ontario service provider will review your situation and help determine whether Better Jobs Ontario is appropriate.
Can You Apply for Better Jobs Ontario After a Recent Layoff?
Yes. Individuals who have recently been laid off may qualify for Better Jobs Ontario.
You do not necessarily need to wait several months after losing your job before asking about the program.
If you have received a layoff notice, contact an Employment Ontario service provider to discuss your circumstances and understand what information you need.
A service provider can help you review:
- Your previous work experience
- Your current employment situation
- Your skills and education
- Your job-search efforts
- Training opportunities
- Financial circumstances
Starting this conversation early can help you make an informed decision about your next steps.
Can You Qualify Without Being Laid Off?
Yes, in some circumstances.
Better Jobs Ontario is not limited to people who have recently experienced layoffs.
The program also provides a potential pathway for individuals who have been unemployed for 12 weeks or longer and are part of a low-income household, even if they were not laid off.
This means some people who have struggled to find employment may also be able to explore government-supported retraining.
An Employment Ontario service provider can explain the additional eligibility criteria and assessment requirements.
What Government-Funded Retraining Options Are Available in Ontario?
Better Jobs Ontario is an important option, but it is useful to understand how different employment and education supports work.
Better Jobs Ontario
This program primarily supports eligible unemployed individuals who need occupational skills training and financial assistance to move toward employment.
Employment Ontario Services
Employment Ontario provides employment-related services, including career guidance, job-search support, skills assessment, and referrals to training opportunities.
You can use the Ontario employment and training resources to explore available services.
Employment Insurance (EI)
Employment Insurance may provide temporary income support to eligible unemployed individuals.
If you currently receive EI, you should speak with your Employment Ontario service provider and Service Canada before beginning training to understand how participation could affect your benefits.
EI and Better Jobs Ontario have different eligibility and administrative rules.
Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
OSAP is another form of education-related financial assistance, offering loans and grants where applicable.
However, OSAP is not the same program as Better Jobs Ontario. The type of financial assistance and applicable eligibility criteria differ.
Learn more through the official OSAP website.
How to Apply for Better Jobs Ontario: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for Better Jobs Ontario involves working with an Employment Ontario service provider.
Although individual requirements can vary, the process generally includes the following steps.
Step 1: Contact an Employment Ontario Service Provider
Begin by finding an Employment Ontario service provider in your community.
An employment counsellor can review your circumstances, discuss program eligibility, and help you understand the application process.
Step 2: Discuss Your Career and Employment Goals
Your service provider will help assess your previous work experience, education, transferable skills, and employment goals.
You should be prepared to explain why additional training may be necessary for your desired occupation.
Step 3: Research Suitable Training Programs
Research programs connected to realistic job opportunities.
Under Ontario’s program guidance, applicants generally need to research at least three training institutions, including at least one publicly assisted college and one career college.
Different rules may apply in specific circumstances, so follow the instructions provided by your employment counsellor.
Step 4: Gather Training Institution Information
Contact your selected institutions to request relevant training information.
This may include:
- Program name and curriculum
- Training duration
- Tuition and related costs
- Admission requirements
- Training delivery format
- Available start dates
The training institution may provide supporting documentation needed for your funding application.
Step 5: Prepare Your Application Documents
Work with your service provider to complete the required application information and financial needs assessment.
Step 6: Submit Your Application for Review
Your service provider will explain how to submit the application and supporting documents.
Funding approval is determined through the provincial program’s assessment process.
Step 7: Confirm Approval Before Starting Training
Do not assume a program is funded simply because it is offered by a registered career college.
Confirm the approved training details and funding arrangements before making a financial commitment or starting your program.
What Documents Are Needed for Better Jobs Ontario?
Preparing relevant information in advance can make your appointment with an employment counsellor more productive.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked for:
- Employment history and layoff information
- Record of Employment (ROE), where applicable
- Details of recent job-search activities
- Educational qualifications
- Household income information
- Selected training program details
- Tuition and related cost estimates
- Information about additional financial needs
The exact documents required will depend on your application and the instructions from your Employment Ontario service provider.
How to Choose the Right Retraining Program After a Layoff
Choosing a training program is a major part of planning your career transition.
Rather than selecting a course based only on popularity, think about your existing skills, interests, training needs, and realistic employment opportunities.
Consider these questions:
- What skills have I developed through previous employment?
- Which occupations are recruiting in my area?
- What qualifications do employers request?
- Does the training match my experience and career goals?
- What is the total cost and length of the program?
- Will my preferred training program be considered for Better Jobs Ontario funding?
You can research occupational requirements and employment outlooks through the Government of Canada Job Bank.
Technology and Business Training Options to Explore
Toronto Innovation College offers training opportunities in several technology and business-related areas.
Depending on your background, you may want to explore the following options as part of your career planning.
Software Development
Software development training can help learners build foundational programming, application development, and technical problem-solving skills.
Explore the Full Stack Java Developer program and ask admissions about the current curriculum, program duration, and admission requirements.
Business Analysis
Business analysis may appeal to individuals with experience in administration, operations, project coordination, finance, or customer-facing roles.
Relevant training can develop skills in documenting requirements, improving processes, and communicating with business stakeholders.
Explore Business Analysis and Project Management and related training options.
Cloud Computing and DevOps
Cloud computing involves managing and supporting applications and infrastructure using cloud technologies.
DevOps combines development practices, automation, and IT operations to support software delivery.
Learners interested in these areas can explore the college’s Azure and AWS DevOps training.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence training can introduce learners to data, automation, machine learning, and practical AI applications.
Explore Toronto Innovation College’s Diploma in Artificial Intelligence to learn more about available training.
Accounting and Payroll
For individuals interested in finance and business administration, accounting and payroll training can provide opportunities to develop practical skills in recordkeeping, payroll processing, and financial operations.
Explore the college’s Accounting and Payroll training options.
Important: These examples are for career exploration. Not every course, certificate, or diploma automatically qualifies for Better Jobs Ontario funding. Confirm the specific program’s eligibility, approval status, and suitability with your Employment Ontario service provider.
Why Consider Toronto Innovation College for Career Retraining?
Selecting a training institution involves more than choosing a course title.
You should also understand the learning format, admission requirements, course content, practical training, and available student support.
Toronto Innovation College provides career-focused education and training options in technology and business disciplines.
Prospective students can:
- Explore available diploma and training programs.
- Discuss learning objectives with admissions staff.
- Request current program schedules and tuition information.
- Learn about admission requirements.
- Ask what documentation may be available to support a Better Jobs Ontario application.
Learn more about Better Jobs Ontario information at Toronto Innovation College.
A college can provide program-related information, but Better Jobs Ontario eligibility and funding approval are determined through the provincial process.
How to Improve Your Employment Prospects During Retraining
Completing training is an important achievement, but your job-search preparation also matters.
Here are practical ways to use your retraining period effectively.
Build Practical Experience
Where possible, complete assignments and projects that demonstrate skills related to your chosen occupation.
For example, a software development learner could prepare a programming portfolio, while a business analysis learner could create process maps or sample requirements documents.
Update Your Resume
Explain your new training and transferable experience clearly.
Focus on relevant skills and accomplishments instead of presenting career retraining only as a gap in employment.
Develop Your LinkedIn Profile
Update your professional headline, skills, qualifications, and completed projects.
Use your profile to communicate the direction of your career transition.
Research Employers
Review current job descriptions to identify the software, tools, certifications, and experience requirements commonly requested for your target occupation.
Prepare for Interviews
Practice explaining why you decided to retrain, how your past experience remains relevant, and what new skills you can contribute.
Career change is not only about acquiring a qualification. It is also about showing employers how your skills can meet workplace needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Better Jobs Ontario
1. What is Better Jobs Ontario?
Better Jobs Ontario is a provincial program that provides eligible individuals with financial support for occupational skills training. It was previously known as Second Career.
2. How much funding can I receive through Better Jobs Ontario?
You may qualify for up to $28,000 for eligible training lasting one year or less, or up to $35,000 for training lasting more than one year and up to two years. Actual funding depends on individual assessment and approval.
3. Can I apply immediately after being laid off?
You can contact an Employment Ontario service provider after a layoff to discuss your eligibility and begin preparing for the application process.
4. Do I need to be unemployed to qualify?
Better Jobs Ontario generally serves eligible unemployed individuals. Some laid-off workers temporarily working to cover their expenses may also qualify. The program also has a pathway for certain individuals who have been unemployed for 12 weeks or longer and are from low-income households.
5. Can Better Jobs Ontario cover living expenses?
Yes. Eligible applicants may receive support for living expenses, including a basic living allowance of up to $500 per week, subject to assessment and program rules.
6. Does Better Jobs Ontario cover technology training?
Some technology-related training may be considered if the specific program and applicant meet the provincial requirements. Technology training is not automatically eligible.
7. Can I receive Better Jobs Ontario funding while collecting EI?
Receiving Employment Insurance does not automatically prevent you from applying. However, you must discuss training arrangements and benefit requirements with the appropriate authorities.
8. How long does the application process take?
Processing times depend on the application, documentation, assessments, and program administration. Ask your Employment Ontario service provider for guidance rather than assuming a fixed approval timeline.
9. Is Better Jobs Ontario the same as Second Career?
Better Jobs Ontario is the current name of the program formerly called Second Career. Program rules have evolved, so applicants should use the current provincial guidelines.
10. How can Toronto Innovation College help with my application?
Toronto Innovation College can provide information about relevant programs, admission requirements, training schedules, tuition, and available program documentation. An Employment Ontario service provider assists with the provincial funding application.
Start Planning Your Career After a Layoff
Losing your job does not have to mean putting your long-term career goals on hold.
If you are eligible for Better Jobs Ontario funding, government-supported retraining may help you develop new skills and prepare for another occupation.
The first step is to understand your options, review the official eligibility requirements, and choose training that aligns with your career goals and employment opportunities.
Toronto Innovation College can help you explore available programs and understand the information you may need when discussing training with an Employment Ontario service provider.
Take the Next Step Toward Career Retraining
Contact Toronto Innovation College to explore available training opportunities and discuss your educational goals.
Phone: +1-905-268-0958
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://torontoinnovationcollege.ca/
Explore Better Jobs Ontario: https://torontoinnovationcollege.ca/better-jobs-ontario-funding-for-diploma-programs/
Official government information: https://www.ontario.ca/page/better-jobs-ontario
Disclaimer: Better Jobs Ontario eligibility, financial assistance, program suitability, and funding approval are determined through the Ontario government’s assessment process. Funding is not guaranteed. Contact an Employment Ontario service provider for current requirements and application assistance.
Information reviewed: October 2026.