Ottawa spending $229M to help tariff-hit Ontario workers obtain new skills

By Canadian Press on March 10, 2026.

OTTAWA — The federal government will spend $228.8 million over the next three years to help Ontario workers in industries hit hard by U.S. tariffs acquire new skills and adapt to the trade war disruption.

The new Canada-Ontario Workforce Tariff Response will support workers and job seekers in the province’s softwood lumber, steel and automotive industries — areas still facing steep sectoral tariffs from the United States.

The federal government says in a news release that workers in sectors affected indirectly by tariffs can also access the training and employment services on offer.

Ottawa estimates 27,000 workers in Ontario will get training or other supports through the program.

Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu is announcing the funding today alongside her Ontario counterpart David Piccini on Parliament Hill.

On Monday, Hajdu also announced $94.5 million in spending over five years to improve data sharing on job opportunities in key sectors.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 10, 2026.

Craig Lord, The Canadian Press

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