Internationally-Trained Professionals Program

In the next five to ten years, immigration will account for all of the labour force growth in the Ottawa area. According to a recent report issued by the Centre on Governance at the University of Ottawa, it was found that the unemployment and underemployment of internationally trained workers has been identified as one of the top ten economic challenges facing Ottawa in the coming decade.

In response to a demand for financing, the Ottawa Community Loan Fund has created a specialized loan product designed for students involved in accreditation programs for internationally trained teachers, nurses and bio-tech workers. Payments on these loans do not start until a month after the program is completed. Financing offered by OCLF allows students to concentrate on their studies without worrying about immediate loan payments. OCLF loans for internationally-trained teachers and nurses can be used for course tuition, books, school supplies and exam costs.

The Ottawa Community Loan Fund has recently entered into a community lending partnership with Local Agencies Serving Immigrants (LASI) World Skills. As part of the partnership, OCLF will administer the loan portfolio of the Dick Stewart Fund for People. The goal of the Dick Stewart Fund for People is to assist internationally trained newcomers to Ottawa in obtaining short-term training that will lead to employment in a field relevant to their previous education and training. More information on the Dick Stewart Fund for People can be obtained from LASI World Skills at www.Ottawa-worldskills.org.