For Canada to succeed, all Canadians must have the opportunity to develop and use their skills and knowledge to the fullest. So said the government of Prime Minister Paul Martin in the Speech from the Throne that opened the 37th Parliament of Canada in February 2004: "Investing in people will be Canada's most important economic investment." Such an investment is critical. The new economy demands an increasingly educated and skilled workforce. To remain globally competitive, Canada needs to invest in raising the overall level of education and skills across the country. As well, Canada faces a shortage of skilled workers over the next 10 years, due to both retirement and the country's low population growth rate. To replace the aging workforce, Canada needs to look beyond traditional sources for future employees. It needs to invest in increasing the education and skill levels of: (1) Aboriginal Canadians; (2) Canadians with disabilities; (3) Immigrants to Canada; (4) Youth and adults with low literacy or foundation skills; and (5) Canadians living in rural or remote areas of the country. With improved access to, and success through, postsecondary education and training, these groups represent opportunities for Canada's future workforce. Project examples are appended. (Contains 35 endnotes.)