Partners & Funders
The program involves the Ottawa Community Loan Fund, World Skills, Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization, Lebanese and Arab Social Services Agency, and Desjardins. Employment and Social Development Canada funds the program.
Goals and Collaboration Approach
The Credential Recognition Program helps skilled newcomers get Canadian recognition for their foreign credentials. It brings together five partners to offer full support for newcomers to access employment in their fields. This collaboration helps improve the economic integration of newcomers.
Activities
The program tackles various challenges by offering loans, sector-specific advice, job search training, and career mentoring. It also provides extra support for training, recertification, career placements, and financial counselling, ensuring newcomers get the help they need.
Link to the Ottawa Immigration Strategy
The program recognizes newcomers’ foreign education and experience to help them find suitable jobs. This aligns with the Ottawa Immigration Strategy’s goals of improving economic integration and supporting immigrants in the job market.
Timelines and Milestones
Started in 2018 with a three-year Employment and Social Development Canada funding, the program was renewed in May 2023 for another three years. It aims to help 2,500 clients, 55% women, from May 2023 to January 2028.
Impact Areas and Client Outcomes
- Provided 5,151 newcomers with information about credential recognition.
- Assessed the needs of 1,841 skilled newcomers.
- Assisted 367 newcomers with credential assessment plans.
- Provided sector-specific information (1,388 sessions) and referrals (2,003 newcomers).
- Offered job search skills training to 1,441 newcomers.
- Conducted financial empowerment training for 284 participants.
- Disbursed over $1 million in low-interest loans for education and credentialing.
- Provided specialized mentoring to 228 participants, with 129 mentors being women.
Conclusion
The Credential Recognition Program addresses foreign credential challenges, helping newcomers access good jobs and achieve economic integration. The renewed funding and strong partnership show its success in creating opportunities and fostering a more inclusive society.
