Who can participate in the Small Business Employee Training Program?

Small business employees that need workplace training. Ideal participants do not have a high school diploma; or, have a diploma but are lacking accreditation or essential skills.

If you are an employee of a small business and want to participate, contact us and we'll help you communicate this opportunity to your employer.

What kind of training can employees get?

There are no restrictions on the type of training, as long as it meets the needs of your workplace and is short-term (less than three months). We will work with employers and their participating employees to assess training needs, develop a training plan and help research available courses and schools. Each participant will receive up to $900 to pay for approved training courses.

Some examples of possible training include: Accounting and/or Computer Skills, Cashier Training, Customer Service, Driver's License, FoodSafe, Forklift Operation, GED, health and safety training such as Occupational First Aid or Fall Prevention Training, other types of industry-specific training or trades certification.

Participants also receive access to 5 online small business courses - at no additional cost.

How can this program help me keep good employees?

Employers that invest in training experience higher employee retention rates. Your commitment to employee development increases staff loyalty, motivation and overall job satisfaction. In addition, it builds your reputation as a great place to work. This helps you attract new workers when you need them. Training builds a committed team; it also creates a pool of qualified replacements for employees that do leave.

Do you charge a fee for this program?

No. This program is funded through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement and there is no cost to participants or their employers.

How do I register?

Contact Nicole Cannon at 604-298-4720 or toll-free at 1-866-298-4757, ext. 227 to determine if the ASPECT Small Business Employee Training Program is right for you.