In order to be considered for funding in one of Oteenow's many programs, both you and your career action plan must meet certain criteria as stipulated under the Aboriginal Human Resources Development Agreement (AHRDA). Some exceptions may apply.
For the eligibility requirements for youth please consult the Youth Programs Page or visit the Oteenow Employment Centre
Primary Eligibility Criteria (MUST be met for all clients)
- Be First Nations
- Be a resident of the OETS Geographical Service Area.
- Be unemployed or underemployed (unable to support themselves with income from employment), or employment threatened
- Be entering an occupation where there is a reasonable opportunity for achieving self-sufficiency (there is demand for the occupation and the wages the client is likely to receive will support the client and his/her dependants)
- Commit to an action plan developed with our employment counselors that shows the proposed training is an appropriate step that will lead to suitable employment.
Secondary Eligibility Criteria
- Be applying for first-time funding without previous training/certificates
- Not funded within the last calendar year
- Be a member of a target group including: persons with disabilities, youth, women, unskilled workers, single (lone) parents and adult males requiring special assistance as identified by Oteenow.
'Secondary Criteria' are the conditions that would make your application more appealing for possible approval.
Additional Criteria
Only full-time, short-term training (twelve months or less) resulting in certification can be considered for funding by Oteenow. While some exceptions may apply, upgrading will not be considered an eligible program.
For administrative reasons, Oteenow Employment & Training Society reserves the right to refuse applications for funding made less than 6 weeks prior to the start date of the training. This refusal cannot be appealed. Please direct any questions you may have to the Oteenow Employment Centre.
Youth Eligibility Criteria:
Participants for Oteenow’s Youth Programs must be:
- Resident of Edmonton
- Between 15 and 30 years old
- First Nations ancestry
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Not currently enrolled in post-secondary education
- Not eligible for employment insurance
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance may be available to eligible applicants for:
- Skills development costs (tuition and program-related expenses)
- Individual income support
- Youth stipends
- Targeted wage subsidies
- Workplace supports for persons with disabilities
- Self-employment assistance
Treaty 6
Treaty 8