Premier Doug Ford Announces $2.6M Skills Development Fund Investment In London, Ontario

September 24, 2022
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On Monday, August 26, 2025, London, Ontario, welcomed Premier Doug Ford for a significant announcement that promises to bolster the region’s workforce and economic resilience. The Ontario government unveiled a $2.6 million investment through the Skills Development Fund (SDF) to support training programs for workers in high-dmand sectors like construction and manufacturing. A substantial portion of this funding—nearly $2 million—will directly support LiteracyLink South Central programs, empowering apprentices with essential skills to thrive in today’s competitive job market. The event was further elevated by the presence of Local1059 members, who were on-site and actively engaged in the conversation, showcasing the strength of London’s skilled trades community.

A Boost for London’s Workforce

Premier Doug Ford’s visit to #LdnOnt underscored the province’s commitment to addressing labor shortages and preparing workers for in-demand careers. The $2.6 million investment is part of the broader $2.5 billion Skills Development Fund, designed to train and upskill workers while helping Ontario remain competitive amid economic challenges, including U.S. tariffs. As Ford emphasized, “Ontario workers are the backbone of our economy. 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.”

The funding will support innovative training initiatives in key sectors, ensuring that workers in London and surrounding areas are equipped with the tools to succeed. This investment aligns with the province’s ongoing efforts to strengthen industries like construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades, which are critical to Ontario’s economic growth.

LiteracyLink South Central

Empowering ApprenticesA cornerstone of this announcement is the nearly $2 million allocated to LiteracyLink South Central for two transformative programs: the Apprenticeship Readiness Inventory and Skills Evaluation (ARISE) and Step Up and Succeed: Foundational Skill Building for the Skilled Trades. These programs are designed to provide foundational skills and literacy training to apprentices, helping them excel in their careers.

ARISE Program: This initiative will support 250 apprentices by offering targeted training to enhance their readiness for skilled trades roles. By focusing on foundational skills, ARISE ensures that participants are well-prepared to meet industry demands.
Step Up and Succeed: This program will integrate literacy and basic skills into training, supporting 298 participants. It aims to bridge gaps in essential skills, empowering workers to succeed in high-demand sectors like construction and manufacturing.

These programs reflect Ontario’s commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive workforce. By supporting apprentices, LiteracyLink South Central is helping to build a talent pipeline that will drive economic growth in London and beyond.

Local1059: A Voice for Skilled Trades

The presence of #Local1059 members at the announcement highlighted the critical role of unions in supporting Ontario’s skilled trades. Local1059, part of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), represents electricians and apprentices who are at the forefront of major projects in the London region, including the PowerCo plant.

Their involvement in the event underscored the importance of collaboration between government, community organizations, and unions to create meaningful opportunities for workers.John Gibson, Business Manager of IBEW Local 120, praised the investment, noting, “This round of the Skills Development Fund demonstrates Premier Ford’s and Minister Piccini’s commitment to the skilled trades. This funding will help ensure our apprentices and journeypersons remain some of the highest skilled electricians in the country.” The presence of Local1059 members at the event was a powerful reminder of the community’s dedication to building a stronger, more skilled workforce.

Why This Investment Matters

The $2.6 million investment is part of the sixth round of the Skills Development Fund Training Stream, which opened for applications on July 29, 2025, with a total of $260 million available province-wide. This round builds on the success of previous SDF investments, which have supported over 1,000 training projects and helped more than 700,000 workers gain skills for in-demand careers since 2021.

The funding comes at a critical time, as Ontario faces economic pressures from U.S. tariffs and global uncertainty. By investing in training programs, the province is not only protecting workers’ livelihoods but also ensuring that industries like construction and manufacturing remain competitive. As Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development David Piccini stated, “Our government is standing shoulder to shoulder with Ontario’s workers to make sure they are protected in the face of global economic uncertainty.”

How to Get Involved

Organizations interested in applying for the Skills Development Fund Training Stream can submit proposals through Transfer Payment Ontario until October 1, 2025. Eligible applicants include employers, unions, training providers, and community organizations like LiteracyLink South Central. For those looking to participate in the announced projects, contacting lead organizations directly is the next step. Visit the SDF Training Stream website or email skillsdevelopmentfund@ontario.ca (mailto:skillsdevelopmentfund@ontario.ca) for more information.

Looking Ahead

Premier Doug Ford’s announcement in London, Ontario, on August 26, 2025, marks a significant step toward building a stronger, more resilient workforce. With nearly $2 million dedicated to LiteracyLink South Central programs, apprentices in the region will gain access to cutting-edge training that prepares them for rewarding careers in skilled trades. The active participation of #Local1059 members highlights the collaborative spirit driving this initiative, ensuring that London remains a hub for skilled trades and economic growth.

As Ontario continues to invest in its workers, the Skills Development Fund is paving the way for a brighter future. Whether you’re an apprentice, employer, or community member, this investment is a testament to the province’s commitment to supporting #LdnOnt and its workers. Let’s celebrate this milestone and continue working together to build a stronger Ontario!

Tags: Skills Development Fund