Co-operative Education Incentive

Overview of the Co-operative Education Incentive program:

The Co-op Education Incentive (CO-OP) program in Nova Scotia provides financial assistance to employers who offer career-related work experiences to university and college co-op students. The program is designed to encourage businesses, non-profits, and government organizations to hire students for co-op work terms, helping students gain valuable hands-on experience in their field of study. Employers participating in the CO-OP program receive a reimbursement for a portion of the wages paid to the co-op students. Specifically, the program covers up to 50% of the student's wages, with a maximum subsidy amount per week, making it financially easier for organizations to offer these opportunities. The program aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical work experience, enhancing students' skills and employability upon graduation. It also helps employers access a talented pool of young professionals who bring fresh ideas and knowledge to the workplace.

Benefits of the Co-operative Education Incentive program:

• Minimum Wage: Pay students at least $18.00 per hour, plus vacation pay. Higher wages are preferred.
• Reimbursement: Receive $8 per hour worked by the student.
• Diversity Bonus: Get an extra $1.50 per hour for hiring students from underrepresented groups.
• Wage Compliance: Must pay the wage specified in the application; any shortfall must be covered.
• No Double Dipping: Cannot use other government wage subsidies for the same student. If using project funds, student wages must come from operating funds.
• Additional Funding: Eligibility for 50% wage coverage (up to $10/hour) if using IRAP or SR&ED funding.

Eligibility criteria of the Co-operative Education Incentive program:

• Organizations are eligible to apply for the subsidy if they meet the following criteria:
• Type of Organization:
• The organization can be a private-sector business, government-funded entity, non-profit or charitable organization, social enterprise, or a municipality.
• Co-op Student Employment:
• The organization plans to hire a co-operative education student for a work term lasting between 12 to 16 weeks.
• Wage Requirements:
• The student must be paid at least $18 per hour, plus vacation pay, for full-time work that aligns with the requirements of the students co-op program.
• Student Eligibility:
• The student hired must be enrolled in a work term as part of a co-operative education program at a university or college in Nova Scotia.
• The student you hire must be enrolled in a co-op program at a Nova Scotia university or college, with the work term occurring in the province.
• Hiring family members is allowed if it supports underrepresented groups, following a fair hiring process. Eligible individuals include:
• Mikmaq or Indigenous
• African Nova Scotians
• Visible minorities (including those of African descent)
• Persons with disabilities (physical, cognitive, or mental impairments)