Become a Canadian Red Cross Training Partner

Running a business is all about offering great services that people need. Here’s how becoming a Training Partner helps you stand out:

PLUS! Deliver the highest standard in First Aid training

The Red Cross First Aid courses meet important standards. They follow all federal, provincial, and territorial worker safety rules and insurance boards, except in Quebec. They also meet the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standard Z1210-17. The standard is called “First Aid training for the workplace – Curriculum and quality management for training agencies”. Additionally, the Red Cross First Aid courses align with the latest evidence-based research and scientific findings.

Besides, get high-quality training materials and resources. They are in full colour and available in both official languages. This includes many digital and print products.

Training Partners deliver Red Cross First Aid and CPR programs across Canada to over 869,000 Canadians annually. Join a network of trusted organizations committed to building safer, better-prepared communities.

Becoming a Red Cross Training Partner is a rewarding opportunity that requires careful preparation. You’ll deliver First Aid and CPR courses using the trusted Red Cross program and materials.

We’re here to support you with resources and expert guidance every step of the way. This is your opportunity to showcase your knowledge of the First Aid training business and demonstrate your readiness to deliver high-quality courses. A well-prepared application highlights your commitment to excellence and positions you for success as a Red Cross Training Partner.

Follow these steps to start your journey:

1. Determine if it's the right fit

Review the First Aid Program Standards to ensure your business aligns with Red Cross requirements. As a Training Partner, you must meet these standards to maintain the safety, consistency, and quality of Red Cross courses.

Access the First Aid Program Standards

You should also review the following policies and guidelines to understand expectations:

• About the Red Cross
• Fundamental Principles
• Training Partner Standards of Behaviour (PDF)
• Staff Screening Guidelines (PDF)
• Commitment to Anti-Racism
• Respectful and Inclusive Work Environment
• Handling Disclosures of Abuse or Neglect (PDF)

2. Develop your business plan

A strong business plan is a key part of your application. Download and complete the following resources to prepare:

• Business Plan Template (PDF)
• Insurance Information for Red Cross Training Partners (PDF)
• Application Rubric (PDF)
• Restricted Use of the Red Cross Emblem

Your business plan should demonstrate your ability to successfully run a First Aid training business and meet Red Cross program requirements.

3. Submit your application

Once you have reviewed the requirements and prepared your business plan, you can submit your application.

• Pay the Training Partner application fee on shop.redcross.ca. The application fee costs $600 and is non-refundable, even if we decline the application. Record your payment confirmation number to add to your application form.
• Submit your application form. The Red Cross will review it within 5 to 10 business days and notify you of the next steps.
• If your application moves forward, you will be required to submit your business plan. The review process takes approximately 8 weeks, and the Red Cross may request additional details.

Submit your Training Partner application

4. Final steps for approved Training Partners

If your application is approved, a member of our team will get in touch with you to go over the final steps of the process together.

• Sign the Training Partner Agreement: Before you can sign, you must show proof of your current insurance.
• Pay the annual Training Partner fee of $250 to set up your account. After processing, new partners will get an account number. They will also have access to online ordering and the Training Partner website. This site has tools and resources for course delivery, course management, marketing, and more.
• Onboarding session: After we set up your access, we will invite you to an onboarding session. This session includes other successful applicants. Completing it before you start offering courses to your community is mandatory.

Yes. The Red Cross will only make agreements with applicants who support training growth for specific groups or areas. We encourage all applicants to explore our Training Partner Location Map, which shows the regions in Canada where Red Cross courses are currently offered. This map helps you assess whether the location where you intend to offer training is underserved or already well-covered.

Training Partner Location Map

Explore Training Partner Location Map

We will also work with applicants who show they have the resources to provide high-quality training. This includes those offering training to internal audiences only.

We do not guarantee approval; we will not process incomplete applications.

Yes. Approved Training Partners are required to pay an annual fee of $250. This fee is part of the onboarding process and must be renewed each year on the anniversary of your agreement.

If after reviewing the application requirements you determine that becoming a Training Partner might not be for you, there are other ways to get involved:

• Become an Instructor for an existing Training Partner – Many Training Partners hire certified Instructors to teach courses on their behalf.
• Work with an established Training Partner as a subcontractor – Some Training Partners collaborate with independent Instructors to provide training under their organization.

To explore these options, we recommend reaching out to Red Cross Training Partners in your area. Learn more about becoming a certified Red Cross Instructor.