Learn a trade, and get paid for it

To help cover some of the costs associated with taking training, there are a number of government financial supports and grant opportunities Apprentices may be eligible for:

Employment Insurance

Most of our Apprentices receive EI while completing their training. During your time as an Apprentice at the FTI, you may be able to receive employment insurance benefits as well. Call Service Canada 1-800-206-7218 for more information about eligibility. Also, on the first day of class, all Apprentices will get a chance to fill out their EI application forms and drop it off at a Service Canada office. The closest office to the FTI is located in Newton at 7404 King George Highway in Surrey.

Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG)

Registered apprentices who have successfully finished their first or second year/level in one of the Red Seal trades can apply for the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant. It is a taxable cash grant of $1,000 per year/level up to a maximum of $2,000. More information.

Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG)

Registered apprentices who have completed their training and become a certified journeyperson in a designated Red Seal trade and who obtain either the Red Seal endorsement or a provincial or territorial Certificate of Qualification can apply for the Apprenticeship Completion Grant. It is a taxable cash grant of $2,000. More information.

Training tax credit for Red Seal trades

Provincial tax credits are also available for registered apprentices:

  • $0 for level 1 and 2 as Apprentice Incentive Grants are available
  • $2,000 tax credit upon completion of level 3 technical training (or equivalent)
  • $2,500 tax credit upon completion of level 4 technical training (or equivalent) or higher

Find more information about the Training Tax Credit for Apprentices.

Apprentice Financial Supports

Apprentices may also be eligible to receive the following additional financial supports along with EI Part I benefits, if applicable:

  • Basic living expenses
  • Dependent Care (Childcare)
  • Disability Costs
  • Commuting Costs
  • Travel Costs
  • Living Away from Home Costs

Learn more information.

Canadian Apprenticeship Loan

The Canada Apprentice Loan is an initiative of the Government of Canada to help you complete your apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade.

Starting in January 2015, you can apply for up to $4,000 in interest-free loans per period of technical training. The money will be available to you to help pay for tuition, tools, equipment and living expenses, to cover forgone wages or to help support your family. Find out more.