The Co-op Education Incentive is designed to help your business grow by providing wage assistance for hiring co-op students. This program offers up to $9.50 per hour in subsidies, making it easier for you to bring in fresh talent without straining your budget. By participating, you can hire a student for a 12-16 week work term, gaining access to motivated and educated individuals who can contribute to your projects.

Why should you apply?

• Financial Support: Receive up to $9.50 per hour in wage subsidies.
• Flexible Terms: Hire students for 12-16 weeks, with some programs offering 32-week terms.
• Diverse Talent: Access students from designated diversity groups for higher subsidies.

What’s in it for you?

• Cost Savings: Reduce your wage expenses significantly.
• Fresh Perspectives: Benefit from the latest academic knowledge and innovative ideas.
• Easy Application: The process is straightforward, and guidelines are provided to help you every step of the way.

By getting approved, you not only save on labor costs but also invest in the future of your business with skilled, enthusiastic students. The qualification process is simple, ensuring you can quickly take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

Type of Financing: Wage Subsidy

Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:

• There are no repayment terms or interest rates. This is a subsidy, not a loan.

Eligible Expenses:

• The subsidy can be used to cover wages for co-op students.
• Employers will receive $8 per hour for each student hired.
• If the student is a member of a designated diversity group, the subsidy increases to $9.50 per hour.
• The subsidy covers up to 640 hours of work for a 12-16 week term.

Ineligible Expenses:

• The funds cannot be used for any expenses other than wages for the co-op student.
• Administrative costs, equipment, or other operational expenses are not covered.

Fees:

• There are no fees associated with this program.

This program offers your business a chance to hire co-op students from universities and colleges. You can get wage assistance to help cover the costs. For each student, you receive a subsidy of $8 per hour. If the student is from a designated diversity group, the subsidy increases to $9.50 per hour.

You can hire students for work terms lasting 12 to 16 weeks. The students must work at least 390 hours during this period. The program will reimburse you for up to 640 hours of work. In some cases, you can even have students for 32-week terms.

This is a great opportunity to bring fresh talent into your business while reducing your wage expenses. It allows you to provide valuable work experience to students and potentially find future employees.

1. Create a LaMPSS Account or Sign In: Visit the LaMPSS website to create an account or sign in if you already have one.

2. Prepare Documentation: Gather the following documents:

   • Your organization’s Registry of Joint Stocks number, Canada Revenue Agency charities number, or legal documentation identifying asset distribution upon dissolution.
   • A description of your organization and the role you want to fill.

3. Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form on the LaMPSS website. Ensure all required fields are completed accurately.

4. Submit Separate Applications for Multiple Counties: If you plan to hire co-op students in more than one county, submit a separate application for each county.

5. Wait for Approval: After submitting your application, wait for approval. You will be notified if your application is successful.

6. Return Signed Contract: If your application is approved, sign the contract provided and return it promptly.

7. Provide Student Information: Once you hire a student, provide their information, including proof of enrollment in a Co-operative Education program at a Nova Scotia university or college. Have the student sign a waiver to allow the use of their information.

8. Complete the Work Term: Ensure the student completes the required 390 to 640 hours of work during the term.

9. Submit Payroll Documentation: At the end of the work term, provide proof of wages paid using the Payroll Declaration Form and a copy of the student’s Record of Employment.

10. Complete Feedback Surveys: Both you and the student must complete feedback surveys to provide insights into the program experience.

Following these steps will help you successfully apply for and participate in the program.