Fresh Talent, Real Impact—Youth Hiring Incentives for Hotels

A Snapshot of the Current Landscape

Alberta’s hotels thrive on energy, adaptability, and tech-savvy service; young Albertans bring all of that and more. They’re eager to learn, quick to adapt, and ready to grow when given the chance. Yet despite their potential, youth unemployment in Alberta has reached concerning levels. In the first seven months of 2025, the unemployment rate for ages 15–24 averaged 16.4%, climbing to 17% by May, well above the national average. Alberta now ranks among the highest provinces for youth joblessness.

For hotel employers, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive, administered by CAREERS: Next Generation, offers up to $7,500 for hiring Albertans aged 15 to 24. It’s a chance to strengthen your team with fresh talent while helping shape the future of Alberta’s hospitality workforce.
 

Why Hotel Employers Should Act (and Why Youth Are a Smart Hire)

1. Dynamic, Tech-Savvy, Fresh Perspectives

Young workers bring energy, adaptability, social media fluency, multitasking skills, and a digital-native mindset, traits that align well with modern hotel service needs. Read more on Working with Employers to Recruit and Retain Youth. 

2. Cost-Effective Staffing

Hiring youth often means more flexible wage expectations for entry-level roles, helping control labour costs while still maintaining service quality. Read more on How Hiring Young Workers Can Benefit Local Employers.

3. Loyalty Through Development

Youth who receive support, training, and meaningful work placements are more likely to stay and grow within your business, a win in an industry grappling with turnover.

4. Strengthened Community Engagement

Hiring local youth fosters goodwill and helps build a future customer base, all while anchoring talent in the region.

 

Support and Resources for Youth Hiring

CAREERS Next Generation

• Connects employers with youth (under 21) for paid internships.
• Offers the Alberta Youth Employment Incentive to Employers, you can receive up to $7500 for hiring youth.

• Employers can test-drive potential hires and often convert interns into loyal full-time staff.
   

Alberta Jobs Now

• Offers wage or training cost support for hiring individuals who’ve been unemployed for 27+ weeks or persons with disabilities with a 1.5× higher grant
   

Calgary Youth Employment Centre

• The Youth Employment Centre (YEC) provides free recruitment assistance to employers who are hiring for entry level positions and youth between the ages of 15-24.
   

Skill Training for Youth

• AHLA’s Tourism Works learning platform offers industry-approved training modules designed to prepare young Albertans for success in hospitality. These courses help youth build practical skills and become job-ready for roles in hotels and tourism.
   

​By embracing Alberta’s youth, hotel employers can do more than fill roles, they can grow their business in a positive direction. With generous incentives such as the Alberta Youth Employment Incentive, plus access to training and recruitment support, there’s never been a better time to invest in young talent. Funding is first-come, first-served, so sign up today and let’s turn rising unemployment into rising opportunity for Alberta's youth.