Employment Stream
For Participants
For those with self-identified disabilities who want to focus on building transferable skills for success in job hunting and on the job, the Access Ability program offers the Entrepreneurial Mindset Certificate (EMC). The certificate provides eight sessions facilitated by leaders in their fields to provide participants with various information, such as mastering self-motivation, expanding your virtual network, and much more. All sessions are provided virtually.
Requirements
- Eligible to work in Canada
- Resident of Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Self-identifies as living with a disability
Benefits
- Build skills and knowledge necessary for personal and workplace success through a wide variety of workshops
- Get paid for expanding your knowledge—earn up to $600 for participating
- Support during your job search
- Flexible online sessions
Training Sessions
- Sessions are provided through guest speakers; topics include Creative thinking and problem solving, Intrapreneurship: Unleashing your inner entrepreneur, Navigating the hidden job market, etc.
- Eight training sessions are provided throughout the term; six must be completed before receiving the certificate
- Earn $50 per session attended, plus receive a $200 bonus after successful completion of six of the eight sessions
- Get involved and expand your network by joining our weekly Roundtable Discussions. This is the perfect session for answering any questions that you may have and getting advice catered to your needs from our staff
| Program Q&A session (non-mandatory) | August 9, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Roundtable Discussion 1 (non-mandatory) |
August 14, 2023, 10–11 a.m. ADT |
| Workshop 1: TBA | August 15, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Workshop 2: TBA | August 16, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Roundtable Discussion 2 (non-mandatory) | August 21, 2023, 10–11 a.m. ADT |
| Workshop 3: TBA | August 22, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Workshop 4: TBA | August 23, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Roundtable Discussion 3 (non-mandatory) | August 28, 2023, 10–11 a.m. ADT |
| Workshop 5: TBA | August 29,2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Workshop 6: TBA | August 30, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Roundtable Discussion 4 (non-mandatory) | September 4, 2023, 10–11 a.m. ADT |
| Workshop 7: TBA | September 5, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
| Workshop 8: TBA | September 6, 2023, 10 a.m.–noon ADT |
FAQ
Q: Do I need to pay?
A: The program is free. We pay you, so you can attend each of the training sessions.
Q: How do I get started
A:
- Fill out the application form (clickable link to application form)
- Choose your program(s) that interest(s) you
- Reach out to us at AccessAbility@smu.ca with any questions that you have
Q: Can I apply for both programs?
A: After participating in the EMC program, students have the option to apply for a 700-hour work placement. There are a limited number of work placements available for participants.
Q: Is there a recruitment process?
A: Yes. We will review applications and interview, as necessary.
Q: Am I eligible for the wage subsidy if I receive/have previously received EI?
A: Eligibility for persons who have received EI varies from person to person. If you have received EI payments in the last three years, you will need to confirm eligibility with your province. You should also confirm eligibility if you have been on any other income support program.
For Employers
The AccessAbility program offers a wage subsidy for small and medium businesses in Atlantic Canada who hire someone living with a disability. The program subsidizes 50% of wages, up to $18 per hour. (up to 700 hours of work placement). There are 30 positions open for the wage subsidy, and applications are accepted until all positions are filled.
Benefits:
- Help with recruitment
- Help offset the cost of wages with a wage subsidy
- Help accommodate employees with disability
Program Requirements:
- Small to medium sized business
- Open position that is not in dispute/was not a lay-off
- Employer is willing to bring on employee permanently after placement term
In-person, hybrid, and online work is accepted for the wage subsidy.