Diversify the Workforce: Spaces where newcomers belong and grow
In today’s fast-changing job market, building strong, diverse workplaces is more important than ever. At ISANS, we are proud to support employers on their journey to create inclusive environments where newcomers not only contribute but also truly belong and grow.
Our Employer Support Services are designed to help businesses connect with talented newcomers who bring fresh perspectives, innovation, and global experience to the workplace. Whether through customized training, cultural competency workshops, or hands-on recruitment support, we offer flexible solutions that meet the unique needs of each employer and foster a sense of belonging for all employees.
At the heart of these efforts is our Employer Engager, a critical link between businesses and the wide range of programs ISANS offers. Whether in Halifax or rural communities, these experts provide tailored guidance to employers, helping them build teams that reflect and celebrate the diversity of their communities. This includes support with navigating the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) and the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), especially for high-demand sectors like healthcare and trades.
We recognize that every business is different, so our approach is always customized. Employers can host placements through our Professional Practice Program to address immediate workforce needs, connect newcomers with experienced professionals through our Mentorship Program, use the ISANS SkillsMatch recruitment tool to access a robust talent pool, or participate in Intercultural Workplace Program workshops to strengthen equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) strategies.
Employers are essential partners in helping newcomers feel welcomed, supported, and able to reach their full potential. By offering on-the-job competency assessments for sectors like construction, engineering, long-term care, early childhood education, and trades, and by facilitating youth placements supported by wage subsidies, our approach is built on empowering newcomers to gain confidence, build professional networks, and grow in their careers. In turn, businesses benefit from the creativity, resilience, and fresh ideas that newcomers bring, strengthening their teams and their communities.
Over the past year, ISANS expanded our efforts to connect employers with immigrant talent by hosting 13 Online/Onsite Recruitment and Information Sessions (ORIS), bringing together over 400 job-ready clients and a wide range of employers. We also launched our first annual Employer Forum and held targeted focus groups, providing opportunities for employers to share insights, discuss challenges, and exchange strategies for building more inclusive workplaces. These initiatives ensure our programs remain relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of local businesses.
At ISANS, we believe that when employers invest in welcoming and supporting newcomers, they are not just filling positions; they are building vibrant, resilient communities where everyone has the opportunity to belong and grow. With ISANS by their side, Nova Scotia’s employers are leading the way in creating a future where diversity is celebrated and everyone can thrive.
Attract, Retain & Support:
ISANS Employer Supports with Clifford MacDonald
“What I found was that having people from diverse backgrounds truly enhanced the dynamic of our team. It opened us up, brought different cultures into play, and enriched everything we did. We weren’t just filling positions—we were gaining new perspectives. Since then, I’ve become a strong immigration champion. For anyone considering hiring from diverse backgrounds, it’s important to think beyond staffing needs and consider how you'll support and onboard people from different cultures.”
Stephanie Jones
Owner/ Operator at McDonald's