We support refugee talent & empower employers 

Finding meaningful employment is one of the biggest challenges refugees, refugee claimants, and forcibly displaced individuals face when settling in Canada. Most arrive with valuable skills, experiences, and education, but struggle to navigate the job market, build professional networks, and access career opportunities. 

This is where we come in. As an international, refugee-led charitable organization, Canadian charitable, we are dedicated to supporting our clients in securing meaningful employment and empowering employers to access a diverse and highly skilled talent pool. 

Whether you are a refugee job seeker looking for career support or an employer interested in hiring highly skilled talent, this guide will answer key questions about Jumpstart’s programs, services, and how to get involved. 

For Refugee Jobseekers: Utilizing our Programs to Secure Meaningful Employment  

1. Who we are

We are an international, refugee-led charitable organization, headquartered in Toronto, Canada with a network of offices throughout Canada and around the world. We are focused on connecting refugees with meaningful employment opportunities while helping employers access diverse talent both locally and globally. We have offices across the country (Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver) and have staff in Lebanon and Colombia for our Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot program (EMPP). 

2. Who is eligible for our programs?

• Refugees, refugee claimants, and displaced persons in Canada who are looking for employment, career support, or mentorship opportunities. 

• Refugees abroad may be eligible for our EMPP program if they have proof of refugee or displaced status (RSD, UNHCR/UNRWA registration, refugee certificate, or temporary protected status). Those without documentation may be assessed by a trusted partner. Applicants can apply through the Federal EMPP (skills-based) or Regional EMPP (economic immigration). 

3. What kind of support does Jumpstart offer to job seekers residing in Canada?

We offer resume support, interview preparation, mentorship programs, career workshops and access to employers to support clients’ success in the job market. 

4. What kind of support does Jumpstart offer to global job seekers?

The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) is a program for skilled refugees and displaced people looking to work permanently in Canada. The EMPP helps skilled refugees and other displaced people immigrate to Canada through economic programs and gives employers access to a new pool of qualified candidates to fill job openings.  You can apply for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) on your own, or through Jumpstart as a non-government partner. 

5. I’m in Canada, how can I register for Jumpstart’s programs?

You can sign up by browsing our website and completing our Intake Form to sign up for the program you are interested in. 

7. Is there a fee for joining Jumpstart’s programs?

Most of our services are entirely free for eligible clients, with the WES Gateway Program being the only exception. 

8. What industries does Jumpstart work with?

We are proud to partner with employers across industries and sectors, including technology, finance, construction, healthcare, and more. 

9. How does Jumpstart match job seekers with employment opportunities?

We work closely with employer partners to find suitable job openings and match candidates based on skills, experience, and career goals. 

10. Can Jumpstart help improve my resume and interview skills?

Yes! We offer resume-building sessions, interview coaching, and employment readiness workshops.  

11. Does Jumpstart offer mentorship programs?

Yes, our Mentorship Program (Welcome Talent Canada) connects newly arrived refugees with mentors who can provide the guidance, resources, and connections needed to start their professional careers in Canada. 

Visit our mentorship page for more information. 

For Employers: Hiring Refugee Talent Through Jumpstart 

1. How can employers’ partner with Jumpstart to hire refugee talent?

We partner with employers of all sizes across various sectors in Canada and globally. With offices worldwide, we enable Canadian employers to find relevant and qualified local and global talent efficiently. 

Accessing a broader talent pool allows businesses to expand into new markets, gain better understanding of diverse customer needs, and potentially increase market share and revenue growth. 

Ready to work with us? Get in touch through this form.

2. Why hire refugee talent?

Refugees bring diverse skills, resilience, and strong work ethics, helping companies create a more inclusive and innovative workforce. Read our blog on Why Canada Needs Refugee Talent: A Call to Action for Employers. 

3. What support does Jumpstart offer employers during the hiring process?

We assist with candidate sourcing, screening, pre-employment coaching, and onboarding support. 

4. Does it cost anything for employers to hire through Jumpstart?

No, our services are free for both employers and refugee job seekers. 

5. What industries does Jumpstart’s employer network cover?

We collaborate with companies in various industries, including but not limited to technology, finance, construction, retail, and healthcare. 

6. Can we help employers improve their diversity and inclusion efforts?

Yes! We provide guidance on inclusive hiring, onboarding, and workplace integration strategies. Get in touch with us to learn more. 

7. How can employers support refugee employees after hiring them?

Employers can provide mentorship, cultural awareness training, and professional development opportunities to help refugees integrate and succeed. 

8. Can employers request specific skill sets when hiring through Jumpstart?

Yes, we work closely with employers to match candidates based on their job requirements and needed skill sets. 

9. Beyond hiring, how else can employers support Jumpstart’s efforts?

Employers can get involved by hosting networking events, mentorship programs (including Speed Mentoring), training sessions, or offering corporate sponsorships. If you are interested in learning more 

Whether you are a refugee or an employer, get in touch with us or visit Contact – Jumpstart – Refugee Talent to learn more!