We do not train and employ people to take on business. We take on business to train and employ people.

Based on successful non-profit social enterprise models across the country, Building Up was developed in Toronto to improve our city’s environmental efficiency, affordable housing stock, and most of all – to create a real pathway for individuals experiencing barriers to enter apprenticeships and careers in the trades. 

Building Up connects the dots. We give housing providers an opportunity to connect work that needs to get done in their buildings with the people in their buildings that need the work. We help construction unions meet their need for skilled labour by supplying them with individuals from the community that are looking for sustainable careers. 

We link business needs to community needs in everything that we do, and act as a vehicle for win-win-win partnerships.

Building Up’s pre-apprenticeship program is a 16 week paid training program that uses construction contracts and in-class training to prepare individuals facing barriers to employment for successful careers in the trades. Participants are paid $14 per hour for 12 of the 16 weeks and are required to be available from Monday to Friday between 7:30 AM to 4:00PM for the duration of the program. Our 16 week program is divided into 2 sections: 8 weeks of in-class training and 8 weeks of in the field work experience. 

8 weeks of in-class training – working directly with unions and trades employers

• Essential skills: Trades math, reading comprehension and soft skills training.
• Trades skills: Power tools, drywall, painting, carpentry, plumbing, etc.
• Health and safety: Every trainee is provided with the health and safety certificates and Personal Protective Equipment required by employers:  WHIMS, Working At Heights, Elevated Work Platforms, PPE, etc.
• Tools: Every trainee is provided with a core set of tools to help them in their trades careers. 

8 weeks of work placement

• Water retrofits: Participants replace old inefficient water fixtures  (toilets, showerheads and aerators) with highly efficient upgrades that save affordable housing buildings millions of dollars annually on utility bills. 
• General labour: Participants are placed on a variety of social enterprise contracts that provide a basis for punctuality, professionalism and work ethic. 
• General contracting: Participants work under experienced tradespeople to undertake renovations that benefit community. 

for more information please visit : +1 (647) 993-5507  Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:00 116 Industry St, Unit 208, Toront