First Nations and Inuit Employment Integration Program

Finding and supporting new talent can be challenging, especially when your business also wants to build a more inclusive workforce. In Quebec, employers looking to hire and integrate members of First Nations or Inuit communities can access meaningful wage and training support through the First Nations and Inuit Employment Integration Program, administered by the Ministère de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale. The program is designed to help businesses meet their staffing needs while contributing to long-term workforce diversification across the province.

This initiative helps offset a significant portion of an employee’s wages for an extended onboarding period, often covering most of the salary up to the equivalent of minimum wage for a full-time role for as long as a year. Beyond the wage subsidy, businesses may also receive funding to support coaching and mentorship, short-term skills training, and adjustments to human resources practices or tools. These added supports are particularly valuable for employers that want to ensure new hires are properly integrated and set up for long-term success within the organization.

Open to most types of Quebec-based businesses and nonprofits meeting certain requirements, the program can be especially helpful for roles that are newly created, vacant, or recurring. For employers interested in understanding how the funding works in practice and whether their hiring plans qualify, reviewing the full program details can clarify next steps and potential support.