A new initiative in Calgary is taking direct aim at the persistent challenge of youth unemployment, with an ambitious goal of creating 2,000 industry placements and opportunities for young workers by the year 2027. The program, called TalentED Greater Calgary, represents a strategic work-based learning initiative spearheaded by Calgary Economic Development (CED).
Bridging the Gap Between Employers and Emerging Talent
Designed specifically for job-ready youth aged 18 to 24, TalentED Greater Calgary seeks to streamline the connection between employers seeking emerging talent and young individuals desperate for that crucial first career opportunity. The program was officially launched at an event held at Platform Calgary, where CED's Vice-President of Intelligence and Productivity, Deana Haley, outlined the dual challenge the initiative addresses.
"Employers consistently tell us they need efficient, low-risk methods to bring in new talent," Haley stated. "Simultaneously, youth express their need for practical experience and professional references to secure that initial 'yes' and truly launch their careers. TalentED Greater Calgary was conceived and built specifically to tackle this persistent obstacle head-on."
A City of Contrasts: Job Growth Amidst Youth Unemployment
The launch of this program comes at a critical time for Calgary's economy. While the city recorded the second-highest job growth among all major Canadian cities in 2025, this positive trend has not fully translated to its younger population. Youth unemployment remains a significant concern, with younger job seekers facing intense competition for entry-level positions.
Recent statistics underscore the severity of the issue. The youth unemployment rate in Calgary climbed to 19.6 percent in September 2025, a notable increase from the 13.4 percent recorded in September of the previous year. This data highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions like the TalentED program.
How the TalentED Program Works
The TalentED Greater Calgary initiative operates on a dual-track model designed to benefit both participants and employers.
- For Youth Participants: Young individuals gain access to digital training sessions focused on developing relevant, in-demand workplace skills. Furthermore, they are connected to an innovative online platform that intelligently matches them with potential employers based on their specific skill sets and career aspirations.
- For Employers: The program aims to simplify and de-risk the process of accessing young talent. It provides a structured pathway to connect with pre-vetted, motivated candidates who are ready to contribute to the workforce.
Building on Proven Success
TalentED Greater Calgary is not starting from scratch; it builds upon the foundation of a highly successful pilot project. According to data from Calgary Economic Development, that earlier initiative generated an estimated $16 million in direct economic impact through its work-integrated learning opportunities. This proven track record provides strong evidence for the program's potential effectiveness at a larger scale.
Real-World Impact: A Success Story from the Pilot
The tangible benefits of the program's approach are illustrated by the experience of local tech company Pedesting. Erin Shilliday, co-founder of the walkability advocacy organization, testified that his business "benefited immensely" from participating in the pilot.
The program's wage subsidy, which covered 80 percent of a young candidate's salary for a short-term position, was a game-changer for the small enterprise. "That support quite literally made it possible for our little company to avail itself of this highly accomplished candidate," Shilliday explained. "TalentED YYC was an amazing source of support for us."
Shilliday, who remembers his own struggles as a young job seeker, emphasized the program's value. "It was tough. You genuinely feel trapped as a young student—full of energy and knowledge, but lacking the experience that employers demand. These placements are key stepping stones."
By focusing on practical skills, direct employer connections, and financial support mechanisms, TalentED Greater Calgary represents a comprehensive strategy to empower Calgary's next generation of workers and strengthen the city's overall economic resilience.
