$1.15 million in research project funding announced for western Newfoundland groups

CORNER BROOK, N.L. — A pilot project to explore best practices in the delivery of employment programs, services and supports for at-risk youth and young adults aged 15-40 is one of three research projects announced in an Aug. 19 press release that will benefit youth, women and social enterprise in western Newfoundland.
The total $1.15 million investment in the projects is being funded through the Newfoundland and Labrador Workforce Innovation Centre and supported by funding through the Canada – Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement. 
The centre is administered by the College of the North Atlantic and has a provincial mandate to provide a coordinated, central point of access to engage all labour market stakeholders about challenges, opportunities and best practices in workforce development.
The YMCA of Western Newfoundland’s “Employment Service YES! Pilot Project” will receive $824,493. 
The Community Education Network Southwestern NL’S “Workforce Innovation Through Social Enterprise” research project will receive $248,535 to facilitate evidence-based research and analysis and to share resources and practical tools to support the growth of social enterprise throughout the province.
The Corner Brook Status of Women will receive $74,525 for its “A Community Minded Social Enterprise: An Inquiry for Viability” project that will explore the conditions necessary for the success of a social enterprise in the Crestview area of Corner Brook. The project is a partnership with the Vine Place Community Centre.
“These exciting research projects harness the expertise and creativity of our partners throughout western Newfoundland,” said Bernard Davis, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, in a press release.
“Workforce development is a priority for our government and we look forward to continuing to support economic growth and diversification through the Newfoundland and Labrador Workforce Innovation Centre in Corner Brook.” 
The announcement brings the total number of research projects supported by centre to date to 20.
Projects are selected based on established criteria that focus on job creation and economic development, as well as the objectives of the Newfoundland and Labrador Research and Innovation Centre program.