Navigating workforce challenges is easier when supports are in place to help employers hire, train, and retain skilled workers. Automotive employers in Nova Scotia can access several provincial and apprenticeship agency programs tailored to build workforce capacity and reduce hiring barriers.
Here’s a breakdown of key opportunities available now:
START Program — Wage Incentives for New Hires
The START Program helps Nova Scotia employers connect with unemployed Nova Scotians and supports hiring by offering wage incentives and other funding to offset some salary and training costs for new employees.
Key Information on the START Program:
- Funding to help offset salary and benefit costs for hiring a new employee
- Available for small and medium employers located in Nova Scotia
- Must apply before hiring to be eligible
How it helps automotive employers:
Hire candidates — including service technicians, administrative staff, or entry-level roles — with financial support that reduces early-stage wage costs.
Employers can apply through the Government of Nova Scotia’s LaMPSS portal.
More information on the START Program can be found here: https://novascotia.ca/programs/start/
Apprenticeship START Funding — Support for Skilled Trades Employers
Automotive employers registering apprentices through the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency can access the Apprenticeship START Program, which provides up to $25,000 in funding for the duration of an apprentice’s program — increasing to up to $30,000 if the apprentice self-identifies as belonging to an equity-deserving group.
Benefits for employers:
- Funding to support apprenticeship training and retention
- Incentives to help cover wage costs during apprentices’ progression
- Support for top-ups during technical training that don’t affect EI benefits
Plus:
Employers can also benefit from the Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit, a federal tax credit equal to 10% of eligible wages paid to apprentices, up to $2,000 per eligible apprentice per year.
Apprentice Supports — Tools, Grants & Financial Assistance
Helping apprentices succeed also supports employers by strengthening retention and progression.
Key supports available through the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency include:
- $750 Provincial Apprentice Progression Award — Apprentices in a Red Seal trade may apply for a taxable $750 award upon successful completion of Level 3 of their apprenticeship program. Note: This does not apply to trades that have only three levels, as those apprentices are eligible for the Completion Award instead.
- Canada Apprentice Loan — Up to $4,000 Annually (Interest-Free While in Training) Apprentices registered in a Red Seal trade can apply for a Canada Apprentice Loan of up to $4,000 per technical training period, interest-free while in school.
- Apprenticeship Tools Grant — a one-time, non-repayable $1,000 grant for newly registered apprentices to purchase trade-essential tools, clothing, and protective equipment.
- Employment NS Apprenticeship Funding — potential financial support for books, travel, childcare, technology, and accommodations during technical training.
- Most Skilled Trades (MOST) Tax Rebate — a provincial income tax rebate for apprentices and certified tradespeople under age 30.
- Tradesperson’s Tools Deduction — an annual deduction of up to $500 to help cover the cost of new tools necessary for their trade.
These apprentice financial supports help ensure new technicians have the tools and stability they need — contributing directly to employer retention efforts.
Employment Insurance (EI) During Technical Training
Apprentices earn wages while working on the job and may apply for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits during scheduled technical training sessions.
If an Apprentice Has an Existing EI Claim:
- Approximately 6 weeks before training, the Apprenticeship Agency mails a class acceptance letter.
- Apprentices should immediately contact or visit their local Service Canada office to advise them they will be attending technical training.
- Service Canada may request the class acceptance letter.
If an Apprentice Is Filing a New EI Claim:
- Applications can be submitted online through the Government of Canada.
- During the application process, a reference code must be entered.
- The 2025–2026 EI reference code is: 1512-02-2025-252605
Apprentices should consult the Government of Canada website as the official source of EI information.
Employers can now complete and submit apprentices’ Records of Employment (ROEs) online, streamlining the EI process during technical training periods.
Direct Employer Support
Automotive employers can connect directly with Industry Training Consultants and regional apprenticeship staff for guidance on:
- Registering apprentices
- Understanding funding eligibility
- Navigating technical training requirements
- Workforce planning
Find the Industry Training Consultant for your region.
Building a Stronger Automotive Workforce
Between wage incentives, apprenticeship funding, tax credits, tool grants, progression awards, loans, and EI supports, Nova Scotia offers a comprehensive framework to help automotive employers grow their workforce with reduced financial risk.
Employers are encouraged to explore these programs and connect with appropriate contacts before hiring or registering apprentices to maximize eligibility.
If you need assistance navigating these supports, Automotive Sector Council is here to help.