London, Ont. — The Ontario government is injecting more than $2.6 million into training programs in the London region, part of a broader effort to protect workers and strengthen the province’s competitiveness in the face of U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty.
Premier Doug Ford made the announcement Monday, highlighting the funding through the Skills Development Fund (SDF), a $2.5-billion program designed to help Ontarians secure good-paying, in-demand jobs, particularly in sectors vulnerable to shifting trade policies.
“Ontario workers are the backbone of our economy,” said Ford. “By investing in training programs in London, we’re protecting Ontario workers by helping them get the skills they need to land better jobs and bigger paycheques. Whether it’s in manufacturing or other sectors, we’re making sure no one gets left behind in the face of U.S. tariffs or any other challenges.”
Targeted Training Programs
Two organizations in the London area will deliver three new free training programs supported by the provincial funding.
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 120 is receiving $694,546 to provide 91 participants with safety certifications, advanced electrical training and job readiness skills for construction sector careers. The program is aimed at helping workers overcome barriers, qualify for specialized roles, and advance their careers.
Literacy Link South Central, a nonprofit focused on workforce education, will receive $1.94 million for two separate programs. Its Apprenticeship Readiness Inventory and Skills Evaluation (ARISE) program will help 250 apprentices build foundational skills, while the Step Up and Succeed program will integrate literacy and basic skills training for 298 participants entering the skilled trades.
“Our government is standing shoulder to shoulder with Ontario’s workers to make sure they are protected in the face of global economic uncertainty,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “That’s why we are proud to invest in programs that will get workers better training, for better jobs, with bigger paycheques. It’s about giving people the tools they need to succeed while building a stronger, more productive Ontario.”
Broader Economic Strategy
Since launching in 2021, the Skills Development Fund has directed $1.5 billion toward training more than one million workers across the province. Funding has supported careers in construction, manufacturing, health care, and other sectors. In this year’s provincial budget, Ontario committed nearly $1 billion more to the fund over the next three years, expanding the total investment to $2.5 billion.
The London investment comes just days after the province announced a separate $70 million initiative to bolster Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response (POWER) Centres and expand Better Jobs Ontario, both designed to help workers displaced by tariffs find new employment opportunities.
Rob Flack, MPP for Elgin—Middlesex—London, emphasized the local impact of the latest announcement. “This investment is about putting people first,” he said. “By helping people in London and across southwestern Ontario gain the skills they need for in-demand jobs, we’re giving them the chance to build strong careers, support their families and grow our local economy.”
Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton—Kent—Middlesex, added: “Expanding access to free training means more people can develop the skills needed to succeed in today’s job market, while also helping local employers find the talent they need to grow.”
Local and Industry Response
The announcement drew strong support from labour, industry, and municipal leaders in London.
“Our government is proud to support these projects that will make a real difference in the careers and lives of construction and manufacturing workers in London and surrounding areas,” said Mohamed Firin, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour.
London Mayor Josh Morgan welcomed the move as an investment in both people and the city’s growth. “With major infrastructure projects and housing a top priority across our province, we’re providing people with the tools to find good jobs and thrive,” he said. “I’m very grateful to the provincial government for their leadership on this and our strong partnership in building an adaptable city and workforce.”
Industry stakeholders also highlighted the importance of building a pipeline of skilled workers. John Gibson, Business Manager of IBEW Local 120, said the funding “will go help ensure our apprentices and journeypersons remain some of the highest skilled electricians in the country.”
Literacy Link South Central’s Executive Director Summer Burton noted the province’s support will “empower Ontarians with learning differences to start — and finish — their apprenticeship journey with confidence.”
Others, including LiUNA Local 1059, BlueStone Properties, and employers across the region, expressed optimism that the investment will help meet the growing demand for skilled trades while addressing barriers that have kept some workers from entering the field.
Looking Ahead
Applications for the programs are now open through the lead organizations. Meanwhile, Ontario has launched a new $260 million call for proposals for the next round of Skills Development Fund projects, with applications due by Oct. 1.
For Ford’s government, the investment is being positioned not only as workforce development but also as a shield against international trade turbulence. As global markets shift and protectionist policies resurface, the province is betting that upskilled workers will keep Ontario’s economy competitive.
