Hiring students can be one of the smartest ways for businesses to strengthen their teams, increase productivity, and build long-term talent pipelines. Through the Talent Opportunities Program (TOP), eligible employers may receive up to $5,000 in wage subsidies when hiring post-secondary students in approved work-integrated learning placements.
The program, supported by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), helps businesses offset hiring costs while giving students valuable real-world experience connected to their studies.
What Is the Talent Opportunities Program?
The Talent Opportunities Program (TOP) is designed to support employers hiring post-secondary students for work-integrated learning placements. These placements help students gain practical industry experience while helping organizations fill short-term needs and develop future talent.
Eligible employers may receive funding covering up to 50% of wages, to a maximum of $5,000 per student placement.
The Summer 2026 term currently runs from May 1 to August 31, and funding is limited.
Benefits of Hiring a Co-op Student
Many organizations across Ontario are using student placements to support growth and improve operations. Hiring a co-op or work-placement student can provide benefits such as:
- Extra support during busy seasons
- Fresh ideas and modern industry knowledge
- Increased productivity and project support
- Early access to emerging talent
- Opportunities to identify future full-time employees
- Additional support for marketing, administration, technology, customer service, and operations
For small and medium-sized businesses especially, wage subsidy programs can make hiring more affordable and lower the barrier to bringing in new talent.
Why Work-Integrated Learning Matters
Ontario’s work-integrated learning (WIL) system continues to play an important role in helping employers address labour shortages and workforce development challenges.
Programs like TOP help bridge the gap between education and employment by connecting students with practical workplace experience while helping businesses remain competitive and innovative.
As workforce demands continue to evolve, partnerships between employers and educational institutions are becoming increasingly valuable.
Who Should Apply?
The program may be a strong fit for:
- Small and medium-sized businesses
- Professional service companies
- Marketing and technology firms
- Manufacturing businesses
- Skilled trades companies
- Non-profit organizations
- Chambers of commerce and local organizations
- Employers looking to expand operations during the summer months
If your organization is planning to hire a post-secondary student for a placement or internship, applying early is recommended due to limited funding availability.
Apply Early for Summer 2026 Funding
Funding spots can fill quickly, particularly during peak hiring periods. Businesses interested in accessing wage subsidies through the Talent Opportunities Program should review eligibility requirements and submit applications as early as possible.
Programs like TOP can help employers reduce hiring costs while investing in future talent and long-term workforce development.
Looking to Strengthen Your Workforce?
Student placements can provide meaningful support to growing organizations while giving students valuable industry experience. Whether you need assistance with operations, administration, digital marketing, customer service, or technical projects, a co-op placement may be a cost-effective way to grow your team while benefiting from available wage subsidies.
