Vancouver

Services Include:
B-Hired: A free job search and skills training program for young newcomers (16 – 29 years old) who want to start their careers in British Columbia (BC). The program is delivered in 4 phases: employability skills workshops, short-term occupational skills training, job search support, and ongoing follow-up for 12 weeks after graduation. To register for B-Hired, send an email or apply online (See below).

Eligibility: Individuals may join the program if they meet all of the following criteria:

• Are between 16 and 29 years old
• Are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person legally entitled to work in Canada
• Live in British Columbia, including Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, or Squamish
• Are unemployed or precariously employed
• Are not receiving similar financial support from another provincial or government labour market program
• Have intermediate to advanced English skills (minimum Canadian Language Benchmark 5+)

Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants: Provides support to help individuals continue their careers by connecting their international education and experience with job opportunities in British Columbia. Services are available for both regulated professions, which require certification and experience, and unregulated professions, which do not require a licence. To register, contact the program’s coordinator by email or call (See contact below). Additional languages are provided as needed.

Program offers:

• Qualification evaluation and assistance with obtaining BC licenses
• Support with joining regulatory bodies and professional associations
• Funding for skills development and courses to enhance qualifications
• Job search support tailored to specific professions
• Work placement opportunities and connections to employers across BC
• Access to mentors who provide guidance on navigating the BC job market

Global Talent Loans: Provides an employment bridging program that supports individuals in achieving their career goals and establishing themselves as professionals in Canada. As part of a foreign credential recognition initiative, the program assists participants in returning to their previous careers or transitioning into new career paths. Services include employment support and access to low-interest loans to support career development. Free 60-minute online information sessions are offered every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM PST for those interested in learning more about the program. Eligibility includes: BC resident (remote areas included), Permanent resident holder / naturalized Canadian citizens, or granted refugees and foreign credential (post–secondary education outside of Canada).

Program offers:

• Low-interest rate government-funded loan
• Career planning and counselling
• Employment support
• Support with recognition of qualifications
• Live webinars and professional events with industry experts and regulatory bodies
• Job retention workshops
• Mentor matching

Solid Start 360 – Job Search Support: A free government-funded job search program that supports newcomers and refugees in overcoming unique barriers they face in their job search journey through individual and group sessions. Eligibility: A newcomer selected to become a Permanent Resident (with a letter from IRCC), or a Protected Person under Canadian law, as defined in S.95 of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). Individuals requiring support in other languages may contact employment360@issbc.org to request interpretation services.