GradWorks — Employer Incentive Program

Finding skilled talent while managing payroll costs is a common challenge for small and medium-sized businesses in Nova Scotia. The GradWorks — Employer Incentive Program is designed to ease that pressure by helping employers bring qualified Nova Scotia Community College graduates onto their teams with meaningful wage support. By offsetting a significant portion of salary costs for up to a year, the program makes it easier to grow your workforce while giving new graduates a strong start in their careers.

Delivered by Nova Scotia Community College and supported through federal economic development funding, GradWorks focuses on connecting businesses with graduates trained in areas such as human resources, industrial engineering management, occupational health and safety, and advanced manufacturing. Many participating employers use the program to build internal capacity, improve productivity, or advance innovation-focused projects that might otherwise be delayed. Funding can cover roughly two-thirds of an employee’s wages, up to about $30,000, making it a practical option for businesses looking to invest in skilled talent without taking on the full cost upfront.

The program is currently accepting applications and is aimed at businesses that meet certain requirements and operate in eligible sectors across Nova Scotia. For employers interested in strengthening their teams with job-ready graduates, learning more about how GradWorks works can help determine whether it fits your hiring and growth plans.