Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy (AWS) Program

The Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy (AWS) program assists apprentices to gain work experience in their skilled trade, and progress to journeyperson certification by providing a wage subsidy to employers who hire apprentices. The program supports apprentices across all levels – First, Second, Third and Fourth year.

Department of Advanced Education and Skills - Newfoundland and Labrador

Overview of the Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy (AWS) Program program:

The Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy (AWS) program assists apprentices to gain work experience in their skilled trade and progress to journeyperson certification by providing a wage subsidy to employers who hire apprentices. The program supports apprentices across all levels of apprenticeship – First, Second, Third and Fourth year. Priority for funding may be given to occupations and sectors identified by the Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour (AESL). The AWS program provides a 75% wage subsidy, to a maximum of $14 per hour, towards the hourly wage for the apprentice.

Benefits of the Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy (AWS) Program program:

The program provides a wage subsidy of 75% up to a maximum subsidy of $14 per hour for apprentices at all levels. Funding is provided on an agreement-by-agreement basis and may be subject to budget availability.

Eligibility criteria of the Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy (AWS) Program program:

Employers that are incorporated businesses, or sole proprietorships, and registered to conduct business in Newfoundland and Labrador, and:
In good standing with the Newfoundland and Labrador Registry of Companies and Deeds;
Have an office or operation in the province;
Have a signed Memorandum of Understanding with the department that confirms they have a qualified journeyperson on site in the appropriate trade; and Can offer relevant work experience to the apprentice as required by the Institutional and Industrial Training Division.