The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) is a governmental organization dedicated to promoting economic prosperity and growth in Northern Ontario.

Established by the Government of Ontario, the NOHFC provides financial support to businesses, communities, and entrepreneurs who are working to create valuable job opportunities and foster economic development in the region.

NOHFC operates a range of funding programs, each designed to address specific needs and opportunities in Northern Ontario. Among them, the People & Talent Program is especially designed to help small and medium-sized businesses hire and train individuals, bolstering their teams and enhancing business operations.

In essence, NOHFC plays a pivotal role in advancing economic growth, fostering innovation, and improving the quality of life for Northern Ontarians.

Is my business Eligible?

Whether you’re a business, municipality, Indigenous community, or a not-for-profit organization in Northern Ontario, we’re here to support you. You’re eligible to apply if you’ve been in operation for at least a year and have one full-time employee.

Which Projects Can We Help You With?

We can guide you in securing funding for salaries, wages, and Mandatory Employment Related Costs (MERCs) for a limited-term internship position of 52 weeks. Ideal candidates should be:

• New to the workforce, changing careers, or unemployed or underemployed individuals venturing into a new field;
• Haven’t participated in a NOHFC-funded internship before;
• At least 18 years old, and
• A resident of, and legally entitled to work in, Canada.

Employing an apprentice under a registered apprenticeship program? You’re also covered, provided you meet all the program eligibility criteria. Your organization can apply for two internships at once.

Educational institutions can apply for up to five research positions, in addition to the two standard internships. Note that only costs associated with 52 weeks of work can be claimed under this program.

Assessment Criteria: How Can We Boost Your Application?

We tailor your application to highlight:

• The role’s potential to fill labour gaps or develop skills in Northern Ontario;
• The prospect of the internship leading to full-time, permanent employment;
• The quality of skill enhancement and transferrable skills, and
• The thoroughness of your work/training plan and supervision methods.

Funding: What Can You Expect?

Eligible municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profits can receive up to 90% of an intern’s salary and MERCs (up to $35,000 per year). For businesses, this percentage is up to 50%.

NOHFC funding, combined with other governmental sources, generally doesn’t exceed 50% of eligible costs for businesses and 90% for other eligible entities.

Exclusions: What Doesn’t Qualify?

While we can help you optimize your application, some costs are not covered. These include discretionary benefits, training expenses, computers, equipment, travel, accommodations, and positions that displace existing employees or require minimal training.

Guidelines: How Does The Process Work?

While you’ll be responsible for recruiting the right candidates, we can guide you to ensure a fair selection process. Generally, you can’t hire relatives or immediate family members of owners and directors, though some exceptions might apply. We’ll also help you create a framework for providing direct onsite supervision to interns.