Options Youth is a virtual employment wage subsidy program funded by Service Canada and facilitated by the Saint Mary’s University Entrepreneurship Centre. It consists of paid, online, milestone-based skill training, followed by a 20-week, paid work placement. Options Youth is committed to helping youth overcome barriers to enter the workforce through personalized training to participants and federal wage subsidies to employers in Nova Scotia
For Employers:
$8,785 wage subsidy (12.55/hr. for 35hrs per week for 20 weeks)
Additional support, as required, throughout the program to participants and employers to provide the best possible experience
For Participants:
Personalized training and mentoring to participants using our online platform
Participants earn an allowance of over $2,600 while completing the online skill training
Support and coaching
Employer Requirements:
Hire a participant that has completed the online program
Small- and medium- size business in Nova Scotia
Provide a minimum 35-hour work week
Coverage of MERC (mandatory employment related costs)
Place the participant on payroll (invoice Options Youth each month)
Provide monthly reports to the Project Manager
Participant Requiements:
A Case Manager (Employment Worker, Social Worker, Probation Officer, etc.)
Between the ages of 15-30
Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person as defined by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Legally entitled to work in Nova Scotia
Facing barrier to employment
Next Cohort
Our next cohort will begin in August 2020, and be ready for work by the end of September. If you are interested in hearing more please contact optionsyouth@smu.ca