Planning to Hire a Co-op Student? You Could Receive Up to $5,000 in Wage Funding

If your business is planning to hire a post-secondary student for a co-op, internship, or other work-integrated learning (WIL) placement, you may be eligible for funding through the Ontario Chamber of Commerce's Talent Opportunities Program (TOP).

The Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce is pleased to help local employers learn about this opportunity and navigate the initial application process. If you're unsure whether your position qualifies or have questions about getting started, we're here to help point you in the right direction.

What is the Talent Opportunities Program?

The Talent Opportunities Program (TOP) is an initiative of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), funded through the Government of Canada's Student Work Placement Program (SWPP).

The program helps employers hire post-secondary students for paid work-integrated learning placements that are part of a student's academic program. Eligible employers may receive a wage subsidy covering up to 50% of a student's wages, to a maximum of $5,000 per placement.

Work-integrated learning placements include co-operative education, internships, and other eligible placements completed during a student's scheduled work term and related to their field of study.

Applications Are Open

Applications are currently being accepted for:

Summer 2026 placements (May–August) – if you've already hired an eligible summer co-op student, you can still apply.

Fall 2026 placements (September–December)

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once available funding has been allocated, eligible applications will be placed on a waitlist.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible employers must:

• Be a registered Canadian business or not-for-profit organization.

• Provide a paid work-integrated learning placement related to the student's field of study.

• Meet applicable labour laws, workplace safety requirements, and insurance obligations.

Students must be enrolled at a recognized Canadian college or university, be completing a work placement that is part of their program of study, and be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person.

View the full TOP Program guide that answers many of your FAQs.

How the Bracebridge Chamber Can Help

Navigating a new funding program can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first time hiring a co-op student. The Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce can serve as your first point of contact by:

• Answering initial questions about the program.

• Assisting you as you get started with the OCC application portal.

• Connecting you with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce if additional program guidance is needed.

While funding decisions are made by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, we're happy to help local businesses understand the process and make it easier to access this opportunity.

If you're planning to hire a co-op or internship student this summer or fall, we encourage you to reach out to the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce before you apply. We're here to help you get started.