Hiring and training workers can be expensive, especially in seasonal or resource-based industries. The Employment Enhancement Program (EEP) helps Newfoundland and Labrador employers by covering up to 75% of employee wages. If your business is in an eligible sector and you are creating or keeping jobs, this program can lower your payroll costs.
The Employment Enhancement Program is a wage subsidy run by the provincial government. It supports employers who provide job and skills development opportunities in key industries across Newfoundland and Labrador.
Eligible employers may receive:
Funding is based on approved costs and employee hours. It is not paid as a lump sum.
To apply for the Employment Enhancement Program, both the employer and the job must meet certain rules.
Your business must:
The program focuses on these sectors:
Other sectors may qualify if there is a demonstrated need in the region or if the sector is a current priority for the program. For example, if there is a labour shortage or a new industry is growing in a certain area, the program may consider applications from those sectors. Applicants should contact program staff to confirm eligibility for sectors outside the main list).
Funded jobs should:
Final approval depends on your project and local labour needs.
The application is handled by the provincial government. Here are the main steps.
Review your business type, sector, and job plans. GrantHub’s eligibility matcher makes it easier to see if you qualify by letting you filter programs by province and industry.
You will need:
Missing information is a common reason for delays.
Send your completed application to the provincial program office. Program staff may ask for more details or extra documents.
If your application is approved:
The Employment Enhancement Program can help employers:
This support can make it easier to keep skilled workers and grow your business, especially in rural or smaller communities.
Applying after hiring starts
You must apply and get approval before hiring employees.
Requesting more than the hourly cap
The program only covers up to $15 per hour, even if you pay more.
Missing required documents
You need payroll records, proof of payment, and employee details to get reimbursed.
Assuming all sectors are eligible
Only certain industries qualify for this program. If your sector is not listed, check with program staff before applying.
Q: What is the Employment Enhancement Program in Newfoundland and Labrador?
It is a wage subsidy that helps employers cover up to 75% of eligible wages. It supports job creation and skills training in main sectors.
Q: Who can apply for the Employment Enhancement Program?
Incorporated businesses or sole proprietors with a CRA business number and an office in Newfoundland and Labrador can apply. The business must be in good standing with provincial registries.
Q: Which sectors qualify for the program?
The main sectors are agriculture, forestry, fishing, and aquaculture. Other sectors may qualify if there is a regional labour need or program priority. Contact program staff to check your eligibility.
Q: How long does approval take?
Approval times vary. It can take longer if you forget to include all supporting documents.
Q: Can I use this program with other wage subsidies?
Sometimes, but total government help cannot be more than the eligible costs. Check with program staff before combining funding.
The Employment Enhancement Program (Newfoundland and Labrador) can help lower your payroll costs if you meet the sector and employer rules. GrantHub tracks many active grant and wage subsidy programs across Canada. Use these tools to find other funding that fits your business and hiring plans.
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