Work in Progress: Bridging the Gap Between Small Businesses and Canada’s Youth

Youth unemployment isn’t just about today’s job market, it shapes tomorrow’s entrepreneurs and business owners. This report examines youth employment from a small business perspective, recognizing small firms as the primary place young people get their first job, build skills, and learn how businesses operate. Drawing on surveys of small employers and Canadian youth, the report analyzes the barriers small businesses face to youth hiring, and how better alignment could bring young workers and small businesses together.