Ontario Invests $16.5 Million to Uplift Black Youth Through Skills Training and Career Development

MISSISSAUGA, ON — The Ontario government is injecting $16.5 million into the Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) to fund over 65 community-driven programs aimed at supporting Black youth and young professionals across the province. The funding supports a wide range of initiatives focused on career readiness, education, mentorship, and economic empowerment.

The announcement was made by Graham McGregor, Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, who highlighted the province’s commitment to “removing barriers and building thriving communities” where everyone can succeed and feel a sense of belonging.

“By investing in the Black Youth Action Plan, our government is helping youth and young professionals build the skills, confidence and connections needed in high-demand sectors,” said Minister McGregor.

Economic Empowerment Stream Driving Success

The $16.5 million investment is part of the Plan’s Economic Empowerment stream, which has already supported more than 20,000 Black youth since 2020. The stream targets growth in sectors such as health, information technology, film and entertainment, the arts, and skilled trades—all while centering the lived experiences of Black youth.

Since the Black Youth Action Plan’s inception in 2018, more than 90,000 Black children, youth, and families have benefited from culturally grounded programming delivered by grassroots organizations with deep ties to their communities.

Opportunity today means a stronger Ontario tomorrow.

That’s why Ontario is investing $16.5M in the Black Youth Action Plan—showing how targeted, community-informed investments can open doors, empower young people, and build a brighter future for all.

We see this through groups… pic.twitter.com/QD0PKrpYVk

— Graham McGregor (@BramptonGraham) August 29, 2025

Organizations Empowering Change

Some of the funded programs include:

• Youth Taking Flight (YTF) – A STEM-focused initiative offering aerospace and aviation training.

  “We’re showing young people, particularly Black youth, that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning,” said Michelle Minott, Director of Program Development & Administration at YTF.

• Youth Association for Academics, Athletics and Character Education (YAAACE) – A Jane and Finch-based organization providing academic, athletic, and employment-focused programming.

  “This investment affirms the government’s commitment to advancing economic empowerment,” said Marina Nguyen, Director of Corporate Civic Engagement at YAAACE.

• OYA Black Arts Coalition – Dedicated to building technical and creative capacity among Black artists through training and industry mentorship.

These organizations exemplify the BYAP’s mission to empower, inspire, and prepare the next generation of Black leaders in Ontario.

Community Leaders Applaud the Funding

The announcement received widespread praise from community leaders and advocates.

“Expanding the economic empowerment stream is crucial in providing Black youth, especially Black women, with the tools they need to build their careers,” said Hon. Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister for Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity.

“Through the Student and Family Advocates program, we’ve supported over 600 Black children and families,” added Josh Berman, Executive Director of Malvern Family Resource Centre (MFRC), emphasizing the importance of school advocacy and wraparound services.

“This is about unlocking potential and creating pathways to success,” noted Patrice Barnes, Chair of the Premier’s Council on Equality of Opportunity.

A Long-Term Commitment to Equity

This year’s $16.5 million boost is part of a broader strategy. Since launching the Economic Empowerment stream in 2020, Ontario has invested $152 million in programs ranging from job training and wellness to parenting support and community outreach. Current initiatives receiving support include:

• Students and Family Advocates

• Innovative Supports for Black Parents

• Career Launch and Career Advance

• DMZ Black Innovation Program

• Black Employment Support Program

Together, these programs are helping to close opportunity gaps, reduce systemic inequities, and build a more just and inclusive Ontario.

Learn more about the Black Youth Action Plan and its community partners at:
www.ontario.ca/page/black-youth-action-plan

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