On July 24, the provincial governmentannounced it will make up to $3,500 available per student at North Island College (NIC) for eligible short-term skills training in Fall 2024 and Winter 2025.

For the college as a whole, the funding means $384,655 is available, depending on enrollment. 

鈥淭he $3,500 in future skills grant funding per student helps North Island College students boost their skills by getting the training they need for their current employment or to upgrade for a better-paying job,鈥� said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. 鈥淭his is an example of government removing financial barriers to success. I look forward to British Columbians taking advantage of this opportunity and building a stronger future for themselves, their families, and their communities.鈥� 

The funded programs from StrongerBC typically happen over a short period of time and help people access high-quality, relevant training programs that help meet demands in the labour market.  

鈥淭he StrongerBC future skills grant is a great opportunity for NIC students who want to explore career options and learn new skills, while also helping to fill needs in the job market,鈥� said Kathleen Haggith, associate vice president, college experience.  

This latest funding announcement covers 13 NIC programs including Advanced Digital Marketing and Generative AI Integration, B.C. Wildfire Essentials, Drone to Map GIS, Fundamentals of Forest Operations, Small Business Fundamentals and Timber Cruising I and II.

The grant can cover a student鈥檚 tuition, mandatory fees and course or program materials, up to a maximum of $3,500.