Government launches COVID-19 Workforce Integration Fund

Government is seeking proposals from organizations on how they can help Islanders impacted by COVID-19 transition into or return to the workforce.

The COVID-19 Workforce Integration Fund will support innovative projects from organizations that help Islanders gain skills and knowledge so they can find long lasting jobs, advance their careers and access entrepreneurship opportunities.

“We are doing everything we can to get more Islanders into the labour market. We know this is an Island-wide issue and we must come together to create supports and solutions. I encourage all organizations to submit their project ideas, so that together, we can help Islanders get work and keep our province moving forward.”

- Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture Minister Matthew MacKay

Proposals under the fund should support people and groups most highly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including women, youth, members of the Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) community, newcomers, social assistance recipients and Islanders living with disabilities.

“The Workforce Integration Fund was designed with input from stakeholders including women’s organizations, industry and trade councils, and educational groups in Prince Edward Island. It was an entirely new process to ensure this lens was applied before the fund was finalized,” said Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Natalie Jameson. 

“This fund will provide support to projects and programs aimed at helping women, youth, and under-represented groups get back into the workforce. Our efforts need to be on recovery and growth where all members of the population, including women, succeed and thrive,” Jameson added.

Each approved project will receive up to 100 per cent funding for eligible costs to a maximum of $500,000.  

Media contact:
Hillary MacDonald
Department of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture
902-394-6368
hpsmacdonald@gov.pe.ca