Administered by Government of British Columbia · Last verified: July 2026
British Columbia employers can get a wage subsidy to help cover the cost of hiring and training a new employee, and people with disabilities are a priority client group. The subsidy covers a share of wages plus eligible disability supports that reduce workplace barriers, such as job coaching and accommodation. Employers apply through their local WorkBC Centre, which can also match them with eligible candidates. There are limits on how many agreements and subsidized hires one business can run at a time.
Review times vary by program, from a few weeks to a few months, so check the official page for its timeline. Grant money is usually paid after you sign a funding agreement, and cost-shared programs often reimburse you once you send proof of what you spent.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityWorkBC Wage Subsidy (Disability Priority Hiring) is generally open to incorporated, self-employed, partnership businesses, in British Columbia. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is $3,600 to $12,000 per hire, covering up to 85% of eligible costs. The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
1. Contact your local WorkBC Centre to discuss the wage subsidy 2. Identify the role and get matched with an eligible candidate with a disability 3. Review the current Wage Subsidy Handbook for eligibility details 4. Sign the agreement before the employee starts