Employment Enhancement Program

The Employment Enhancement Program (EEP) provides wage subsidies to eligible employers in Newfoundland and Labrador to help them create long-term, sustainable employment opportunities for individuals who face barriers to employment.

Government of Newfoundland & Labrador

Overview of the Employment Enhancement Program program:

The Employment Enhancement Program (EEP) is a wage subsidy initiative delivered by the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is designed to encourage employers to hire individuals who require assistance entering or re-entering the workforce. The program helps reduce the financial risk to employers while supporting skill development and long-term employment outcomes for participants. EEP targets unemployed individuals with employment barriers, helping them gain work experience and increase their employability. The program aims to support permanent, year-round positions and can be used in various sectors, including skilled trades, hospitality, retail, and administration.

Benefits of the Employment Enhancement Program program:

The program provides a wage subsidy of 75 percent, to a maximum of $15 per hour, for a period of 10-28 weeks, plus a training allowance up to $3,000 for the individual hired.

Eligibility criteria of the Employment Enhancement Program program:

Eligibility Requirements:
Eligible Employers:
- Private sector businesses
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Municipalities
- Indigenous governments or organizations
- Must be based in Newfoundland and Labrador
- Must demonstrate financial viability and capacity to provide meaningful work and supervision
Eligible Participants (Employees):
- Must be residents of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Must be unemployed or underemployed
- Typically individuals who face barriers to employment, such as:
- Recent graduates
- Lack of job history
- Transitioning from social assistance or other employment supports
- Must be approved by the department before employment begins
Position Requirements:
- Full-time (30+ hours/week)
- Year-round, sustainable employment (not short-term or seasonal)
- Wages must meet or exceed provincial minimum wage
- Employer must intend to retain the participant after the subsidy ends