The Ontario government is looking to spend $19 million to create more hands-on learning opportunities for postsecondary students, recent graduates and apprentices for the auto manufacturing and advanced manufacturing industries.

As part of its Driving Prosperity Plan, the government has released a call for proposals for a second round of hands-on learning projects with the goal of creating as many as 4,000 paid work placements between 10 weeks and four months. Automotive manufacturing, as well as manufacturing companies that service the auto sector, along with industry associations, postsecondary institutions, and other not-for-profit organizations, are encouraged to submit proposals, says the province.

The call for new proposals will be open until Feb. 25. The fund will provide incentives to employers of up to $3,000 per placement or up to $5,000 for placements for participants with disabilities.