Funding Your Professional Growth: How Self-Employed Learners (You!) Can Apply for Training Grants

At KATI, we know that investing in your own learning is one of the most powerful ways to grow as a practitioner, strengthen your practice, and expand your opportunities. But as a self-employed professional, the cost of continuing education can sometimes feel out of reach.

The good news? There are grants available in British Columbia (and beyond) that can help cover a large portion of your training costs — even if you work for yourself.

One of the most accessible options is the B.C. Employer Training Grant (ETG), offered through WorkBC.

What Is the Employer Training Grant?

The ETG helps employers (including self-employed business owners) fund skills training for themselves or their staff. If you’re self-employed, you can apply as the “employer” and list yourself as the “participant.”

Here are some key details:

  • The grant reimburses up to 80% of eligible training costs.

  • You can receive up to $10,000 per participant per fiscal year (April–March).

  • Businesses (including sole proprietors) can access up to $300,000 in total funding each year.

  • Training must lead to improved employment opportunities — for self-employed learners, that could mean new services, higher income, or expanding your client base.

  • Applications must be made through a Business BCeID and submitted before training begins.

How Self-Employed Learners Can Apply

Applying as a self-employed person is straightforward once you understand the steps:

  1. Confirm your eligibility – Your business must have been operating in B.C. for at least one year.

  2. Set up a Business BCeID – This ID is required to apply online. It can take up to two weeks, so apply early.

  3. Choose your training – Select a KATI continuing education course that supports your professional growth and aligns with the grant’s “better job” (higher income) requirement.

  4. Complete your application – Fill out the employer and participant forms (yes, that’s you twice!).

  5. Submit before training begins – While you can apply close to your course start date, approval must be in place to guarantee funding.

  6. Pay upfront, then claim – You’ll pay the course fee to KATI, then submit receipts to WorkBC for reimbursement.

Why Consider Applying?

Continuing education with KATI is an investment in your skills and in the communities you serve. With the ETG, much of the financial barrier is removed. For example:

  • If a course costs $2,000, ETG could reimburse you $1,600, leaving you with only a $400 net cost.

  • That’s funding that helps you access training while keeping more resources available for your practice and clients.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Start early – Give yourself enough time for the BCeID and grant approval process.

  • Be specific – Clearly show how the course will improve your work outcomes (new skills, better client services, increased stability or income).

  • Keep your records – Save all invoices, receipts, and course completion proof.

Ready to Apply?

At KATI, we want to make professional development as accessible as possible. If you’re interested in taking one of our continuing education courses and would like support in applying for the Employer Training Grant, check out the list below to see if there is funding available in your area:

Canadian Training & Employer Grants by Province/Territory

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Lindsey Langford