Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is providing more than $2.8 million through its Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream to help residents in Durham Region and surrounding areas gain jobs in construction, manufacturing and other skilled trades.
“In the face of President Trump’s tariffs and the economic uncertainty they are causing, our government will always have the backs of Ontario workers,” said Premier Doug Ford. “By investing in training programs in Durham Region, we’re protecting Ontario workers by helping them get the skills they need to land better jobs and bigger paycheques.”
The SDF, which has a total value of $2.5 billion, provides workers with training and tools to fill in-demand jobs while keeping Ontario competitive amid U.S. tariffs.
Five organizations are receiving funding to deliver free training programs:
- Drew Carpentry – $806,426 to train entry-level framers in the homebuilding industry.
- D&R Custom Steel Inc. – $613,000 to train manufacturing workers through four-week, hands-on programs.
- Substance Cares – $447,500 to offer construction and carpentry training for people with autism, including job coaching and inclusive job fairs.
- Innovation Cluster — Peterborough and the Kawarthas is receiving $186,240 to help tradespeople acquire skills to start and run their own businesses.
- FIRST Robotics Canada is receiving $798,000 to provide skilled trades workshops for students and teachers at Durham College and other partner colleges across the province.
Since 2021, Ontario has invested $1.5 billion through the SDF’s training and capital streams, helping more than one million workers prepare for careers in high-demand sectors. As part of the 2025 provincial budget, the government committed an additional $1 billion over three years, bringing total SDF funding to $2.5 billion.
People interested in participating in the programs announced can contact the lead organizations directly.
