Hiring and keeping staff is one of the biggest challenges for New Brunswick businesses. Many employers need help with recruitment, retention, and basic HR planning but are not sure where to start. WorkingNB Employers is a free provincial service that connects you with workforce experts and practical tools to support your business at any stage.
WorkingNB Employers is a Government of New Brunswick service designed to support employers with workforce and HR needs. It does not provide direct grants or cash funding. Instead, it offers hands-on advisory services and recruitment support at no cost to eligible employers.
WorkingNB Employers can help you with:
These services are especially helpful for small and mid-sized businesses that do not have a dedicated HR team.
Using WorkingNB Employers gives you access to workforce consultants who know the local labour market. You get advice that fits your hiring needs. This service can save you time and help you avoid common HR mistakes. It also helps you learn more about HR if you do not have a full HR department.
Many employers say that after working with a consultant, they feel more confident about hiring and keeping staff. This can improve staff morale. It can also lower employee turnover. For new and growing businesses, these benefits are important.
Eligibility is broad and designed to be inclusive.
You may qualify if:
There are no industry restrictions listed. Both private and non-profit employers can access support.
If you want to see what other provincial or federal programs your business may qualify for, you can try GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to filter programs by location and sector.
WorkingNB Employers focuses on practical, day-to-day workforce challenges. Support is delivered through workforce consultants and online tools.
You can get help with:
This is useful if you are struggling to find qualified workers. It also helps you reach job seekers you may be missing.
Workforce consultants can help you:
Planning like this is often needed before you apply for wage subsidies or training grants. Tools such as GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter related programs by province and industry.
WorkingNB can also connect you with:
This is especially valuable for tourism, agriculture, and service-based businesses.
Getting started is simple.
There is no application deadline listed. The program is currently open.
Unlike grant programs that offer direct funding, WorkingNB Employers focuses on expert advice and practical supports. For example, federal wage subsidy programs usually require an HR plan and job descriptions before you apply. WorkingNB helps you prepare these documents, making it easier to qualify for other programs.
Other provincial supports may only target certain industries or large employers. WorkingNB is open to all sectors and sizes, making it one of the most inclusive options in New Brunswick. If you are considering wage subsidies or training grants, starting with WorkingNB can help you get ready.
Assuming it is a funding program
WorkingNB Employers does not provide direct grants or wage subsidies. It offers services and advisory support.
Waiting until a staffing crisis
Engage early so you can plan ahead and avoid last-minute hiring problems.
Not using HR support before applying for grants
Many workforce grants require clear job descriptions and HR plans. Skipping this step can make future applications weaker.
Thinking it is only for large employers
Small businesses and first-time employers are fully eligible and often benefit the most.
Q: What is the WorkingNB Employers program?
It is a Government of New Brunswick service that provides recruitment, retention, and HR support to employers. The focus is on workforce planning rather than direct funding.
Q: Does WorkingNB Employers provide grants or funding?
No. The program offers advisory services and recruitment support, not cash funding or reimbursements.
Q: Who can use WorkingNB employer services?
Employers of all sizes operating in New Brunswick are eligible. There are no listed industry limits.
Q: Is WorkingNB support taxable for businesses?
Since no direct funding is provided, there are generally no tax implications for employers.
Q: Can WorkingNB help with employee retention strategies?
Yes. Workforce consultants provide guidance on retention planning, HR policies, and long-term workforce needs.
WorkingNB Employers is often the first step toward building a stronger workforce strategy in New Brunswick. Once your HR and recruitment plans are in place, you can explore wage subsidies or training grants. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile and build on the foundation WorkingNB helps you create.
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.