Summer Student Grant Application Forms Now Available for 2011

Despite the chilly temperatures and snowy days, it’s already time to start thinking about summer. The Hants RDA would like to remind local not-for-profit organizations and small businesses that the deadlines for summer student funding are fast approaching. If you interested in hiring a summer student the following programs may be able to assist you.

The Student Career Skills Development Program is administered by the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development. This program offers meaningful opportunities for post -secondary students to enhance their skills in their chosen field of study. Not-for-profit organizations can apply for a wage subsidy to give students a career-related work experience. Secure online applications can now be completed at http://www.gov.ns.ca/econ/sep/scsdp/ . The application deadline for this program is January 29, 2011.

Some not-for-profits may wish to take advantage of the Co-operative Employment Program which provides educational opportunities for students registered in an eligible Nova Scotia post-secondary co-operative education program. Visit http://gov.ns.ca/econ/sep/coop/default.asp for more information. The application deadline for this program is January 29, 2011.

The Canada Summer Jobs initiative of Service Canada encourages not-for-profit organizations, public sector employers, and small businesses with 50 or fewer employees to create jobs that not only meet their needs, but benefit students looking to gain work experiences. Information is available at http://www1.servicecanada.gc.ca/en/epb/yi/yep/programs/scpp.shtml. The application period for Canada Summer Jobs 2010 will be from February 1 to February 26, 2011 with locally defined priorities being made available on February 1, 2011.

Organizations working on heritage projects may be eligible for a Young Canada Works Summer Student or a Young Canada Works Intern. See http://www.pch.gc.ca/special/jct-ycw/info-empl/index-eng.cfm. The application deadline for the summer student program is February 1, 2011. Deadlines for the internship program may vary but are close to February 1, 2011.

For other sources of funding for community projects check out the Hants County website at http://www.hantscounty.com. If you have questions about filling out the application form the Hants Regional Development Authority may be able to help. If you don't have access to the Internet, the Hants RDA will send an application form to you by mail or arrange to have one for pickup. Call 1-877-284-2687