rob norris


Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris

You've likely heard a similar story at some point. A highly trained professional from another country moves to Saskatchewan and can't get a job in their field because the re-testing is too expensive, so instead they work at a minimum wage job. It happens all the time but now the province is joining forces with Ottawa to try and help with microloans.

Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris says the pilot project aims to provide microloans to new residents of Saskatchewan and Moose Jaw so they can have their credentials recognized in Canada. "When newcomers arrive they can move more quickly and directly to work in their field, whether they work in healthcare, pharmacies or engineers for example. Some fields have mandatory professional licensing. There are dollars associated with those licenses and the accreditation process, and this actually provides an opportunity."

Norris says the goal is to make sure that people can reach their full potential. "We know that there are some barriers, but this is one more instrument that will help to foster and facilitate their success."

Applicants can receive up to $2000 through the Immigrant Access Fund, a partnership between the province, Ottawa and the Morris Foundation.