About the competition

Now in its 24th year, Top Employers for Canadians Over 40 is an annual competition that recognizes organizations across Canada that lead the nation in creating programs and benefits of special interest to employees aged 40 and older. Organized by the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers, the competition evaluates employers based on eight criteria, including retirement planning, mentorship, post-retirement benefits, and recruitment of experienced workers. Each employer is evaluated by the editors in terms of whether they: (1) offer interesting programs to assist older workers; (2) actively recruit new workers aged 40 years or older; (3) have HR policies that take into account the unique concerns of older workers, such as recognizing outside work experience in determining vacation entitlement; (4) offer a pension plan with reasonable employer contributions; (5) provide assistance to older employees with retirement and succession planning; (6) create opportunities for retirees to stay socially connected to former co-workers, such as through organized social activities and volunteering; (7) provide health coverage and similar benefits for employees after retirement; and (8) offer programs such as mentorship and phased-in retirement to ease the emotional challenges of retirement and ensure older employees' skills are transferred to the next generation. This competition is unique in its focus on supporting older employees and helping them transition toward retirement while passing on their knowledge. Each year, the project's editors release detailed reasons for selection explaining why each of the winners is chosen. Any employer operating in Canada, whether private or public sector, may apply for the competition. For more details on this year's competition, read the press release issued on Apr. 2, 2025.