May 2008, vol. 10, no. 1 - Workplace Skills Initiative

Call for Proposals

The Workplace Skills Initiative (WSI) is an important part of the federal government's 2007 policy framework Advantage Canada. Globalization and growth of the knowledge-based economy are sharply increasing the importance of the skills, education and adaptability of our workforce to achieve global competitiveness. Advantage Canada supports increasing participation, enhancing training and skills development, and breaking down barriers to enable Canadian businesses to compete successfully.

WSI has launched a 3rd Call for Proposals (CFP) package. Projects funded through the WSI are intended to support small businesses and other firms in their efforts to advance their skills, respond to constantly evolving workplace requirements, and maintain their talents to generate and apply innovative ideas to enhance workplace productivity.

Priorities for funding in this round of the initiative involve projects that address skills shortages, through skills development and human resources practices in the workplace, and projects that address workplace environments, such as work organization and design or other workplace enhancements, allowing applicants to test ways Canadian employers can affect workplace productivity. Ultimately, successful projects and lessons learned will serve as examples for other workplaces throughout Canada.

Additional information on eligibility, funding ceilings, important dates and procedures related to the 3rd WSI Call for Proposals is available at the WSI website: www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/workplaceskills/skills_initiative/index.shtml.