Barrier Breakers Youth Program
Barrier Breakers Youth Program is a program offered by Black Business Initiative for entrepreneurs and small businesses in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador).
A paid employment program for youth aged 15-30 across Atlantic Canada who face barriers to employment. Includes 3 weeks of paid job-readiness training and 14 weeks of paid work placements with employers, plus wraparound supports including mental health resources, transportation stipends, and mentorship.
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Program details
The Barrier Breakers Youth Program is a transformative employment initiative led by the Black Business Initiative (BBI), with funding from the Government of Canada through the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS). The program empowers youth aged 15 to 30 across Atlantic Canada who face barriers to employment due to limited work experience, systemic challenges, geographic isolation, disabilities, mental health, or other socioeconomic factors. Participants receive 3 weeks of paid job-readiness training (resume writing, computer skills, financial literacy, and more), followed by 14 weeks of paid work placements with reputable employers across the region. Wraparound supports include mental health resources, transportation stipends, mentorship, and professional development. Two cohorts run per year: Cohort 1 (Spring 2026: April 20 - August 14, 2026) and Cohort 2 (Winter 2026: August 10 - December 4, 2026).
Who qualifies
Must be between 15 and 30 years old; reside in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador; for youth who are underemployed or experiencing barriers to employment; must be legally entitled to work in Canada; Canadian citizens or permanent residents
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