Are you a woman or gender-diverse individual in the skilled trades looking to level up your career through mentorship? The National Mentor Development Program 2025 is now open for applications, offering both participants and coaches an incredible opportunity to gain formal mentoring experience, receive recognition, and contribute to a more inclusive skilled trades environment in Canada.
This blog post details everything you need to know to successfully apply for the National Mentor Development Program 2025, including key dates, eligibility criteria, benefits, and expert advice on preparing a standout proposal.
About the National Mentor Development Program 2025
The National Mentor Development Program 2025 is a 4-month virtual mentorship initiative spearheaded by the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum – Forum canadien sur l’apprentissage (CAF-FCA). This program supports women and gender-diverse tradespeople in the construction and manufacturing industries by building a community of empowered mentors and mentees.
It is structured to strengthen retention and success rates of underrepresented groups in skilled trades, with tailored training, networking, and personal development.
Who Can Apply?
For Participants
Applicants must:
- Be women or gender-diverse individuals.
- Be in their final year of apprenticeship OR be a certified journeyperson.
- Work in the construction or manufacturing trades.
- Have access to a computer and stable internet.
- Be available for virtual learning from September to December 2025.
Priority is given to individuals facing additional barriers, including:
- Black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC),
- Newcomers,
- 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals,
- Persons with disabilities.
For Coaches (Paid Role)
Coaches must:
- Be certified journeypersons identifying as women or gender-diverse.
- Have at least five years’ experience in their trade.
- Be passionate about supporting the next generation.
- Be able to commit time to coaching and training activities.
- Be based in Canada.
💰 Coaches will receive an honorarium of up to CA$4,000, paid monthly throughout the program.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: July 25, 2025
- Program Duration: September – December 2025
- Delivery Format: Online/Virtual
Program Modules
The National Mentor Development Program 2025 includes five interactive modules:
- Mentorship Vision: Setting the Course
- Crafting Connection: Building Strong Mentorships
- Navigating Dialogue: Effective Mentorship Communication
- Wellness and Work: Fostering a Supportive Environment
- Passing the Torch: Knowledge, Careers and Celebrations
Participants will engage in:
- Interactive online sessions
- Forum discussions
- Reflective journaling
- Final capstone assignments
Benefits
For Participants
- CAF-FCA Certificate of Completion
- Personal growth in leadership and communication
- Networking with industry leaders and peers
- Structured support in career transition
For Coaches
- Up to CA$4,000 compensation
- Formal recognition as a mentor
- Professional development in coaching skills
- Contribution to inclusive change in the trades
How to Apply
Ready to begin your mentorship journey?
👉 Click here to apply for the National Mentor Development Program 2025.
📖 Read more about the program here.
🧠 Expert Tip from Grant Database
“The strongest applications show clear intent, alignment with program values, and a demonstrated commitment to equity and mentorship. Start early, tailor your answers to reflect personal experience in the trades, and articulate how this opportunity will strengthen your community impact.”
— Oluwole Omojofodun, Proposal Review Team Lead, GrantsDatabase.org
If you need help preparing your application or refining your proposal, contact GrantsDatabase.org for expert guidance on drafting, refining, and reviewing your submission.
Final Thoughts
The National Mentor Development Program is more than a mentorship program—it’s a strategic step toward a more diverse and empowered skilled trades workforce in Canada. Whether you’re an aspiring participant or a seasoned professional looking to give back as a coach, this program offers structure, support, and recognition to help you succeed.
Apply today and become part of the movement building a stronger, more inclusive trades community!
