Canada has announced a significant investment of over $3.2 billion over three years to support newcomer integration and address labour market shortages. This funding will be distributed among more than 520 organizations outside Quebec. The initiative is part of the federal government’s broader plan to strengthen the economy by attracting global talent and filling critical workforce gaps.
The funding will be used to improve settlement services that are vital for integrating newcomers into high-demand sectors such as health care and skilled trades. These services aim to help newcomers contribute to the economy quickly by applying their skills efficiently, thereby boosting overall productivity.
Organizations receiving the funding will offer regionally tailored services that reflect local needs rather than using a uniform national approach. These services will include assistance with obtaining licenses and certifications in regulated professions, job-specific and general language training in both English and French, and support for French-speaking newcomers to integrate into francophone communities outside Quebec.
This targeted approach is designed to foster economic, social, and cultural integration of newcomers, ultimately strengthening the Canadian workforce and contributing to a more unified and competitive national economy.