Serving east central Saskatchewan, this inaugural program takes ten companies through a structured curriculum that ends where it probably should have started, in the same room as the producers whose work they are trying to change. Some of those companies are from Saskatchewan and some are from outside the province, and that mix is deliberate, because founders coming in gain access to working farms and agri-value producers while the region gains the networks, market connections, and outside perspective they bring with them. Along the way, the program will demonstrate something that matters to every rural community, which is that a region like east central Saskatchewan can lead work of this calibre and draw people toward it rather than only watching them leave. Find out more here and visit the junction at www.easternjunction.ca

Work-Sharing programs help employers avoid layoffs during temporary downturns by reducing employee hours while providing income support through Employment Insurance. Instead of layoffs, employees share available work and may receive up to 55% of their lost wages through EI benefits.

 Enhance Work-Sharing with the Worker Retention Grant

The Worker Retention Grant builds on Work-Sharing by helping employers invest in their workforce while participants are working reduced hours. Employers can:

• Top up employee income while they receive Work-Sharing benefits
• Provide training during non-working days
• Support upskilling through: Online learning; Peer-to-peer training; Informal or on-the-job training

In March 2025, the Work-Sharing Program introduced temporary support measures to provide additional support for businesses impacted by the U.S. tariffs. The support measures are in effect from until March 31, 2027 and were developed to expand employer and employee eligibility for the program. Employers experiencing a decline in business activity attributable to U.S. tariffs may be eligible for Work-Sharing support measures if they: are operating in Canada for a minimum of 1 year and have a minimum of 2 EI eligible employees who agree to a reduction in hours and to share any available work. 

Learn more about eligibility and how to apply:

·       Work-Sharing Program - How to apply - Canada.ca

·       Worker-Retention Grant webpage

 For questions or support: 
Email: edsc.dgop.dmpj.smet-wrg.wdy.pob.esdc@servicecanada.gc.ca or call: Employer Contact Centre at 1-800-367-5693 (Canada & US) TTY: 1-855-881-9874

Help Us Celebrate Saskatchewan’s Best

Behind every successful community initiative is a story worth sharing. The Awards of Excellence are your opportunity to recognise those efforts and celebrate the work shaping strong, resilient communities across Saskatchewan.

You can nominate: