To help urban Aboriginal youth become a registered apprentice and work toward becoming a certified journeyperson in a skilled trade.

The Apprenticeship Opportunity Fund (AOF) provides support services to enhance the successful completion of an approved pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship training program.

Financial assistance and wage subsidy

• Up to 26 weeks on the job training – 50% of wages (up to minimum wage)
• Classroom fee and other such as ERS, parking and books

Start-up tool fund

• Special costs for tolls, specifically for apprenticeship designated trade – up to $1000 based on trade
• Special costs related to participants with disabilities may be provided if required

Up to 100% of funding covered by NPAAMB

1. To meet minimum NPAAMB eligibility requirements you must be: 
   1. A registered NPAAMB client (if you are not, contact your local YSO to schedule an intake appointment).  
   2. Reside within one of the following catchment areas: Kitchener-Waterloo, Brantford, Hamilton, St. Catharines, or Fort Erie and Niagara Falls (proof of residency may be required).  
   3. Self-identify as an Aboriginal person (status/non-status First Nation, Inuit, or Metis).  
   4. 15 to 30 years of age at the time of intake/selection. 
   5. A desire to learn, participate and accomplish personal career goals. 
2. Out of school, unemployed, or underemployed. 
3. If a previous NPAAMB client, must demonstrate successful completion of prior interventions provided by NPAAMB. 
4. Registered apprentice with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD) and other approved apprenticeship offices.  
5. Demonstrate that you have researched the trade you are applying for  
6. Commitment to full attendance 
7. Willingness to participate in math and/or English upgrading  
8. High school diploma or equivalent