Western REN Receives $151,493 from Province to Connect Employers with Skilled International Graduates
The Western Regional Enterprise Network (Western REN) received $151,493 from the Province of Nova Scotia. The funding comes through the Community Economic Development Fund. It supports an initiative that connects local employers with skilled international post-secondary graduates.
The Community Economic Development Fund made this investment as part of nearly $890,000 in total funding. The Province distributed that funding across seven organizations. Two provincial funding streams aim to help communities and sectors compete through innovation and collaboration.
“Connecting employers with skilled international graduates is an important step in addressing the workforce needs of western Nova Scotia,” said Angélique Doucet, CEO, Western Regional Enterprise Network. “The investment through the Community Economic Development Fund is helping us ensure businesses have access to the workforce they need today, while growing the talent pool required to support future growth across our region.”
The initiative addresses workforce gaps in the region. It links employers directly with international graduates who have the skills local businesses need. It also builds a stronger talent pipeline for the future.
Minister of Growth and Development Colton LeBlanc noted the broader goal of the fund. It helps rural communities build stronger regions. It grows local businesses, attracts investment, and gives more Nova Scotians a reason to see their future close to home.