Written by: Rachel Aarons, Anna Ferguson, and Grace Adesanya
On May 15, 2025, the Ontario government unveiled its 2025 Budget, A Plan to Protect Ontario – a vision for strengthening the province through inclusive growth and opportunity. Among its key commitments are targeted investments that signal progress for Black youth, aspiring professionals, job seekers, and entrepreneurs – all of which align with our shared mission to empower and advance our community members.
Two of the standout initiatives are the continued investment in the Black Youth Action Plan and AI. With $16.5 million dedicated to helping Black youth upskill and advance in high-opportunity sectors like skilled trades, tech, automotive, arts, and film, this support is not just financial — it’s foundational. To date, more than 190 organizations have partnered with the Economic Empowerment Stream of the program, helping over 19,000 youth pursue their educational and career goals.
Ontario is the birthplace of modern AI. Leading in the headlines, there has been an explosion of generative AI tools providing new opportunities in many industries. Today, Ontario is a hub for innovation. Implementing over 1,700 new AI master’s degrees and study paths, the Ontario government is adapting quickly to supply the market with AI talent. This is not only beneficial for Ontario, but provides high-in-demand innovative educational and career opportunities for Ontarians. These investments are transforming lives, igniting dreams, and reimagining futures.
Entrepreneurship remains a cornerstone of thriving communities, and the budget acknowledges this by prioritizing small business growth. Across Ontario, 47 Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs) already serve as vital lifelines for entrepreneurs, offering mentorship, training, and guidance. The province’s new commitment of $1.9 million over three years to establish a business succession planning hub within this network reflects an understanding of the long game — ensuring businesses not only launch, but last. Support also continues through Futurpreneur Canada, which has helped nearly 300 businesses get off the ground in the last two years. The upcoming $2 million investment beginning in 2025-2026 will ensure that even more young entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools and support to turn vision into venture. For our members, many of whom are launching or scaling their own enterprises, this is a meaningful boost that aligns closely with our mission to help them reach their fullest potential.
From tariff threats to rising unemployment rates, at a time when economic uncertainty hovers, workforce readiness is critical. That’s why the Ontario government’s $50 million top-up to Better Jobs Ontario is a timely move. This program helps Ontarians pivot into in-demand fields, offering training and resources that can lead to meaningful careers. Recognizing that U.S. tariffs have created economic challenges across the province, the Ontario government created the new Trade-Impacted Communities Program (TICP). Starting in 2025-2026, the program will provide up to $40 million in grants tailored to local industries and communities.
Additionally, in 2025-26, the government is investing $20 million to prepare support centres and new training programs to offer support for laid-off workers, including those impacted by U.S. tariffs. Service System managers, unions, local community organizations, and colleges and universities will partner to support this initiative.
As an organization committed to mentorship and opportunity, we are pleased with this investment in Canadians – especially those looking to build a better future for themselves and their communities. Together, these investments signal more than policy. They represent a promise. A promise to build a province where equity, access, and opportunity are more than ideals, but realities. We are encouraged by this direction and remain committed to ensuring our community is equipped, empowered, and uplifted every step of the way.