Cooperative Education Incentive

Finding skilled, motivated talent while managing payroll costs can be a challenge, especially for organizations looking to grow their teams without overextending their budgets. For employers in Nova Scotia, the Cooperative Education Incentive offers a practical way to bring in post-secondary co-op students while receiving meaningful wage support. Delivered by the Government of Nova Scotia through Labour and Advanced Education, this program is designed to encourage employers to create paid, hands-on learning opportunities for students enrolled in co-operative education programs.

Through the Cooperative Education Incentive, approved employers can recover a portion of the wages they pay to co-op students, with reimbursement typically around eight dollars per hour over the course of a work term. Most placements run for a semester-length period, making this support add up to several thousand dollars per student. The program is open to a wide range of organizations, including small and medium-sized businesses, larger enterprises, and non-profits across most industries, as long as the role provides full-time, paid work aligned with a student’s academic program.

Applications are accepted on a recurring basis for summer, fall, and winter co-op terms, making this an ongoing opportunity for workforce planning. For Nova Scotia employers interested in developing future talent while reducing hiring costs, reviewing the full program details can help determine if this incentive fits your staffing needs.