It’s been a long time coming, but businesses in northwestern Ontario will be able to take part in a new immigration program.

It’s called the Regional Economic Development Through Immigration Initiative (REDI).

Economic development Officer Allyson Pele says Confederation College really spearheaded the application.

“The purpose of this program is to really allow for collaboration with different regional partners and to support our workforce in attracting skilled foreign workers with a job offer and then which would ultimately lead to permanent residents here in our individual communities.”

Michelle Salo is President of Confederation College and says this is an important initiative for northwestern Ontario.

“Addressing workforce needs in Northwestern Ontario takes strong regional partnerships. We’re proud to have worked alongside partners across the Kenora and Rainy River districts on this application. Through REDI, we can help employers connect with skilled workers while creating opportunities for newcomers to build careers and make their homes in our communities.”

Regional partners in the immigration project were notified recently they were one of five successful applicants in Ontario.

An information sessions about the REDI (Ready) program will take place on November 4th.