Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for the riding of Sault Ste. Marie, announced today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor, a contribution of $589,500 for the Centre for Social Justice and Good Works , to help establish its Project Entrepreneurship social enterprise training program.

“The Government of Canada is proud to support this innovative social enterprise training program that will provide participants with the skills and experience they need to succeed, while helping companies access a talented and trained workforce.” said,  Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.

The program will offer a 12-month inclusive, supportive and hands-on learning experience to people facing employment barriers. The goal is to enable participants to join the workforce, launch their own small business or pursue a post-secondary education.

“I am pleased that our government’s investment is helping to make this project possible and provide invaluable entrepreneurship and business skills training. This program will empower even more Canadians to join the workforce, pursue higher education or start their own business.” said,  Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie

The training program will feature eight months of entrepreneurship training in a classroom setting followed by four months of hands-on training in a start-up chocolate manufacturing operation. The initiative will focus on life skills, business techniques, employment standards, employer expectations and entrepreneurship. The Centre will provide tools, staff, mentors and other volunteers to help the program participants through their journey. Between 150 to 200 individuals are expected to benefit from the individualized training. In addition, the chocolate manufacturing wholesale start-up is expected to help create two full-time and three part-time permanent positions.

“Our commitment to our community in creating positive change, through the support of our Federal government and the ongoing support from our local MP, Terry Sheehan, moves closer to deliverables.  In supporting our Project Entrepreneurship, a unique training program that addresses social and employment issues using a combination of strategies, the Government and its representatives are demonstrating their commitment to investing in our community.” said, Christina Coutu, Executive Director, Centre for Social Justice and Good Works.
 

Taken from Saultonline.com