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SWPP Funding

Support Student Talent With Wage Subsidies

The Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) helps employers connect with postsecondary students through paid work experiences – while offsetting costs through wage subsidies.

If you’re hiring a McMaster Social Sciences student, SWPP can help you build your team, support emerging talent, and access funding through approved delivery partners.

How To Get Started With SWPP Funding

Hiring a McMaster Social Sciences student and accessing wage subsidies through the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) can be a rewarding process – but it helps to have guidance. Our employer support team is here to help you understand eligibility, choose the right funding partner, and prepare a strong application. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Connect With Our Team Early Email Our Support Team

Before you apply, reach out to McMaster’s employer support team. We’ll help you navigate key decisions – like which SWPP delivery partner to approach, how to confirm your organization’s eligibility, and how to meet student criteria such as work-integrated learning recognition. We can also advise on how to target the right students and improve your chances of accessing supplementary funding for hiring students from under-represented groups.

Step 2: Pre-Register With A Funding Partner

Once you’re ready to move forward, register your intent to seek wage reimbursement through one of ESDC’s approved delivery partners. Each partner has its own process, but most offer:

  • Up to $5,000 per eligible student
  • Up to $7,000 for students in their first year or from under-represented groups

Step 3: Hire A McMaster Student

Recruit a current undergraduate student from McMaster’s Faculty of Social Sciences for a paid position that aligns with their academic program. The role must qualify as a formal work-integrated learning experience – such as co-op, internship, or a required placement.

We can help you identify eligible programs, craft a job description that meets funding criteria, and connect with students who are ready to contribute. Hiring early in the term can also improve your chances of securing funding and attracting top candidates.

Step 4: Apply For Reimbursement

At the end of the placement, follow your chosen funding partner’s process to apply for reimbursement.

This step often requires confirming the student’s enrollment in a formal work-integrated learning program and, if applicable, their membership in an under-represented group. Our team can help ensure you have the right documentation and meet all criteria.

Employer Delivery Partner Options

The Government of Canada delivers the SWPP program through several ‘Employer Delivery Partners‘. Each of these partners manages its own processes and/or platforms. Please confirm all details for the most updated and accurate information.

Several of the available options for partnership and funding may be of particular interest to employers seeking student talent from the social sciences, liberal arts, and interdisciplinary fields:

Ontario Chamber Of Commerce Review On Chamber Website

The Talent Opportunities Program (TOP) helps Canadian businesses and non-profits access wage subsidies to hire students from any academic discipline.

It’s a flexible option for employers across sectors looking to support student talent. Applications are managed through the Chamber’s streamlined online portal.

Tourism HR Canada View The Tourism HR Canada Site

The Propel program connects students with paid, hands-on learning experiences in Canada’s tourism sector.

Students from any discipline are eligible – even if they’re not studying tourism or hospitality. It’s a great fit for employers offering seasonal, guest-facing, or experience-based roles.

Culture Works Canada Visit The CHRC Website

Culture Works Canada supports cultural sector employers hiring students for roles in digital media, film, performing arts, music, publishing, and heritage.

Students don’t need to be studying arts or culture to qualify. This program helps creative organizations mentor emerging talent while accessing wage subsidies.

Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) Explore The ICTC Program Site

ICTC’s WIL Digital program funds placements in Canada’s digital economy, including roles in cybersecurity, software development, and data analytics.

Employers must hire students in programs with formal work-integrated learning components. It’s ideal for tech-forward organizations looking to grow their teams.

Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) Learn More On The CMPA Site

CMPA provides wage subsidies to mentors in film, television, and interactive media who support students through paid work-integrated learning.

The program is designed to strengthen Canada’s media production pipeline. It’s a great fit for studios and content creators looking to invest in future talent.

Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) Discover More On The EHRC Site

EHRC’s Empowering Futures program supports employers in the electricity and renewable energy sectors.

Wage subsidies are available for student placements in technical, operational, and support roles. It’s a strong option for organizations advancing Canada’s clean energy transition.

Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council (CAHRC) Explore The CAHRC Site

The Agri-Talent ‘Growing Opportunities’ program helps agricultural employers – from growers and retailers to ag-tech and horticulture firms – hire students for paid work terms.

Students from any discipline are eligible. This program supports innovation and workforce development across Canada’s food and farming sectors.

Environmental Student Work Placement Program (ECO Canada) Visit ECO Canada's Site

ECO Canada funds placements in environmental science, sustainability, and green economy roles.

Their program focuses on STEAM and business fields, which often align with McMaster Social Sciences programs. It’s ideal for employers working on climate, conservation, or policy initiatives.

Food Processing Skills Canada (FPSC) View The FPSC Site

FPSC’s SWPP+ program connects food and beverage manufacturers with college and university students for paid work terms.

It’s designed to support workforce development in Canada’s growing food processing industry. Employers benefit from streamlined access to funding and student talent.

Magnet Explore The SWP Program Page

Magnet is a national digital platform that connects employers with postsecondary students across disciplines.

Their SWPP program is cross-sectoral and open-ended, making it a flexible choice for many organizations. Employers can access funding and recruitment tools in one place.

Need Support? Contact Our Team

Keri Long
Co-op & Internship Manager
Email: kerlong@mcmaster.ca
Location: KTH 129 (Student Services Office)

Need Support With SWPP Funding?

We’re here to help you navigate the process – from choosing a funding partner to confirming eligibility and preparing your application.

Whether you’re planning a student hire or exploring wage subsidies, our team is ready to assist. Email our employer support account to learn more about funding and hiring options or start the process or ask questions by contacting Keri Long.

Email Our Employer Team