TORONTO -- Federal Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne says the government is launching a $250 million upskilling program targeting high-growth sectors.

He says the program will help 15,000 mid-career workers to transition into new positions in sectors including clean tech, cybersecurity and bio manufacturing.

The minister spoke at a Canadian Club event on Friday afternoon in Toronto.

The minister said Canada is facing generational opportunities that need to be seized.

He said Canada's greatest asset is talent, and said that is what allows the country to attract large investments in key sectors.

Last week Ottawa unveiled the Canadian Innovation Corporation, which aims to support businesses in becoming more innovative and productive.