Helping Albertans succeed in the workforce

Edmonton (PAB) March 24, 2026 –Budget 2026, if passed, will invest an unprecedented nearly
quarter-billion dollars to help Albertans gain and retain
meaningful employment.
Every Albertan’s path to employment looks different, and Budget 2026 reflects that reality.
With a record $247 million invested into career and employment services this year alone,
Alberta’s government is supporting Albertans at every stage of their employment journey –
making it easier to find a job, earn a paycheque, and build a better future for themselves and
their families.
Employment services are more than a link to the job market; they are a lifeline for people
navigating unemployment, career changes, or new training needs. Budget 2026’s investment
in these critical services will help break down barriers to employment and ensure all Albertans
have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.
“We’re not just talking about opportunity – we’re delivering it. This record investment is about
opening doors, breaking down barriers, and making sure every Albertan has the support they
need to get a good job, a steady paycheque and build a future they can count on.”
Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services
“Alberta has long been known as a place of opportunity for families to prosper and grow.
Investments from our government are ensuring every Albertan can reach their full potential,
increasing their ability to provide for their families and make meaningful contributions to our
province.”
Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade, and Immigration
Through partnerships with more than 160 service providers, Alberta’s government is helping
people access training and connect to jobs across high-demand sectors like health care,
skilled trades, food service, information and technology, and transportation.
Budget 2026 also increases support for on-the-job training, including a $35 million investment
in simulated worksites. These sites offer paid, hands-on training with local employers, helping

Albertans build the skills they need to move into stable, long-term employment. There are
currently 16 sites operating across the province, with four more set to open later this year.
“When barriers prevent Albertans from entering the workforce, we help learn the skills they
need to create their own path to economic independence. With support from the Government
of Alberta, we are right alongside them as they take each step, walking that path together with
confidence.”
Katie Kitschke, executive director, YOUCAN Youth Services
Last year, Alberta’s government launched WorkFirst Alberta, which is the most ambitious step
the province has ever taken to connect Albertans to jobs and employers to job seekers,
including those facing barriers to employment. Employment services are delivered through
WorkFirst Alberta, which offers both digital and in-person supports tailored to individual
needs. WorkFirst Alberta makes it easier for Albertans to access workshops, reskilling
opportunities, and career supports, while giving employers the tools they need to find and
retain talent. This summer, Alberta will launch the WorkFirst Talent Exchange, a new job-A
matching tool that will directly connect employers with qualified candidates.
A key aspect of WorkFirst Alberta is ensuring Albertans facing barriers to employment receive
the customized supports they need. Budget 2026’s record investment expands supports for
persons with disabilities, women, youth, and other Albertans facing barriers to employment
through flexible, person-centred services focused on long-term success. These services
include career planning, assistive technology, and supported job placements, as well as
resources to help employers break down accessibility barriers in their workplace. Recognizing
that barriers can extend beyond the workplace, WorkFirst Alberta also provides wraparound
supports such as childcare, transportation assistance for those with mobility needs, and
mental health services.
“We’re truly grateful to the Government of Alberta for this meaningful investment. Above all, it
means more Albertans who are blind or have low vision can build confidence, find meaningful
work and move forward, while employers create more inclusive workplaces.”
Craig Peterson, executive director of Operations, CNIB
Budget 2026 is focused on what matters, making disciplined choices, and taking decisive action
action.
Quick facts
 Through Budget 2026, Alberta’s government is investing an unprecedented almost
quarter-billion to help Albertans find and retain meaningful employment.
o Budget 2026 invests a record $247 million into career and employment
services – an increase of more than $60 million from Budget 2025’s record
investment.
o Budget 2025’s $185-million investment into career and employment services
was almost double Budget 2024’s investment.

 Through partnerships with more than 160 service providers, Alberta’s government is
helping people access training and connect to jobs across high-demand sectors like
health care, skilled trades, food service, information and technology, and
transportation.
 Employment services may include, but are not limited to, digital tools, career
planning, resume assistance, workshops, assistive technology, simulated worksites,
supported job placements and supports for employers to help remove accessibility barriers
barriers in the workplace.
 Last year, Alberta’s government launched WorkFirst Alberta: the most ambitious
Step the province has ever taken to connect Albertans to jobs and employers to jobs
seekers, including those facing employment barriers.