Barrier Breakers Youth Program

The Barrier Breakers Youth Program is a transformative employment initiative led by the Black Business Initiative (BBI), with support from the Government of Canada through the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS). This program is designed to empower youth aged 15 to 30 across Atlantic Canada who face barriers to employment—whether due to limited work experience, systemic challenges, geographic isolation, disabilities, mental health, or other socioeconomic factors.

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the offering

Here is what you can expect to receive from this porgram:

Training

Participants will receive 4 weeks of paid job readiness training, focused on equipping youth with practical tools to enter and thrive in the workforce.

Work Placements

Participants will also receive 16 weeks of paid work placements with employers across various sectors in Atlantic Canada.

Support

The program includes wraparound supports such as mental health resources, transportation stipends, mentorship, and professional development to ensure each participant’s success.

who qualifies for this?

Eligibility

This program is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents or individuals with refugee status. All participants need to be eligible to work in Canada and may be subject to a background check as part of the placement requirements.

• Must be between the ages of 15 and 30

• Reside in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador

• For youth who are underemployed and seeking meaningful employment or experiencing other barriers to employment.

• Be legally entitled to work in Canada

Cohort Training & Placement Timelines

Cohort 1 – Summer 2025

training: Jun 16 – Jul 11, 2025

Work Placement: Jul 14 – Oct 31, 2025

CLOSED

Cohort 2 – Winter 2025

training: Aug 11 – Sep 5, 2025

Work Placement: Sep 8, 2025 – Dec 26, 2025

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

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Barrier Breakers Youth Program

Here is what you can expect to receive from this porgram:

Eligibility

Frequently Asked Questions

Empowering entrepreneurs