FIRST Jobs: Scale-Up

Supported by:

FIRST JOBS: SCALE-UP is a new program offered by Technology Alberta that continues the momentum of FIRST Jobs to support more companies in a scaled-up way.

Scale-Up will support multiple work placements from 2023-2024.

Eligible technology scale-ups will be supported to hire an Albertan post-secondary student or recent graduate for a 500-hour work term, which Technology Alberta provides 75% subsidized. 

FIRST Jobs: Scale-Up projects could be in exciting areas such as:
And other areas that provide meaningful experience and can support a 500-hour scope.
Employer Eligibility
  • Company is incorporated and operating in Alberta
  • SME (fewer than 100 employees)
  • Working in the technology sector and creating innovative solutions
  • Able to provide a project with a 500-hour scope
  • Able to provide mentorship to their student hire on the project
    • Scale-Up is a Work Integrated Learning program
  • Able to pay their hire $20 an hour for 500 hours, to be reimbursed 75% from Technology Alberta
Students/New Grads Eligibility
  • Currently studying at an accredited post-secondary institution located in Alberta (or graduated within the past 6 months)
    • For a complete list, click here.
  • Over 18 years of age
  • Alberta resident and able to work within the province for the duration of their work term
    • International students are eligible for FIRST Jobs programs
  • Have not previously completed a FIRST Jobs Program work term (in any stream)
  • Have not previously been employed by their First Jobs company

Companies that do not meet these requirements may still be eligible for the shorter FIRST Jobs WIL 200-hour voucher program (click here) or the FIRST Jobs WIL 250-hour voucher program (click here).

Companies may participate in only one FIRST Jobs: Scale-Up work term.

Program Timeline

FIRST Jobs: Scale-Up will be held in 3 streams:

  • Stream A- Full-Time, May – August 2023 (Applications for this stream are now closed)
  • Stream B- Part-Time, September 2023 – February 2024 (Applications for this stream are now closed)
  • Stream C- Full-Time, September 2023 – February 2024 (Applications for this stream are now waitlisted)