The Northern Policy Institute (NPI) is getting into immigration services.
The provincially-created regional policy think-tank received $95,000 from FedNor for a project that will help newcomers to the North find jobs.
Two "community matchmakers" have been hired, based in Sudbury, to serve northeastern Ontario as part of a plan to match the skill sets of a migrant or immigrant worker with the needs of an employer.
Handling those duties as matchmakers are Sherry Mayer at NPI and Stephanie Cotnoir at Société Économique de l’Ontario.
Want to read more stories about business in the North? Subscribe to our newsletter.
One is focused on the francophone and allophone community (including international students), and the other on the anglophone community.
The project is already underway. They're working with employers, communities and those who work in settlement services to address this region's chronic labour shortages, outmigration, and the aging population in this region.
The project is also helping to raise awareness of and facilitating access to job matching, payroll subsidy programs, and other employment supports.
Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre and Nickel Belt MP Marc Serré delivered the news, Feb. 12.
"This will result in new strategic alliances with communities, regional organizations and businesses," said Lefebvre. "It will also increase regional diversity, sustainable economic activity and competitiveness."
"Today’s announcement represents a big step forward in addressing the critical shortage of skilled workers that businesses across the region have identified," said Serré.
"Matchmaking will help connect those with specialized skills with employers who are seeking to fill key vacancies within their organizations. It’s a win-win for everyone," said NPI president-CEO Charles Cirtwill in a statement.
