Who We Are

Essential Skills Ontario is a non-profit organization that works to find the most innovative, efficient and effective solutions that provide adults with the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly-changing world. We believe that education and training are pathways to a better future for many adults and that by advancing the skills of Ontarians, we are advancing the health of our families, our communities and our long-term economy.

We strive for high-quality, timely, relevant and reliable research in order to find systematic and sustainable responses to Ontario’s skills challenges.

This year we developed a new strategy and brand to better represent the work of the organization. It allows us to better address the essential skills adults need to thrive in a rapidly-changing world, as well as partner with a wider range of stakeholders to find innovative ways of addressing skills needs. Learn more about our evolution to Essential Skills Ontario through our brand story, Journey to Essential Skills Ontario.

Who We Work For

We focus on adults in Ontario who may include – but are not limited to – anyone:

  • Without a high school diploma
  • Who has been out of high school for a number of years and needs to upgrade their skills
  • With complex learning or social needs
  • Struggling to advance in the workplace or other aspects of their life

These adults may seek training for a variety of reasons including: finding or keeping a job; changing occupations or careers; furthering their education or to be more self-reliant. Whatever their reason, we believe that all adults who want to advance should have the opportunities and supports to gain the skills that are essential to helping them reach their full potential.

About Us