Rural Enhancement Employment Program

Applications for 2023-24 will be reviewed beginning April 3, 2023. 

The purpose of the Rural Enhancement Employment Program (REEP) is to increase and stimulate economic activity and business development among PEI rural businesses, while increasing long-term rural-based employment opportunities by providing a wage subsidy to rural PEI businesses, municipalities and non-profit organizations. 

Businesses and non-profit groups can utilize the REEP Program to provide employment for jobs that strengthen rural community capacity and/or enhance the rural economy. The program can also be used to train and mentor new staff. Preference will be given to new businesses (less than 5 years in operation), newly expanded rural based businesses and positions that have the greatest potential to lead to permanent full-time employment. This program will support businesses with one position annually and up to two positions in a three-year period.  

This program replaces the Rural Jobs Initiative. 

Who is eligible for funding assistance? 

• Registered private and non-profit businesses and qualified non-government organizations located outside of the Greater Charlottetown area (including Stratford and Cornwall) and the Urban Core of Summerside are eligible to apply to the program.
• Eligible non-profit incorporated organizations can include those that concentrate on rural resources and community economic development. These organizations may include:
  • Community Business Development Corporations
  • Community Economic Development Organizations
  • Municipalities/Band Councils (or their development agency), 
  • Sector/Natural resource enhancement associations.
• Consideration can be given to registered businesses and non-profit organizations within the Greater Charlottetown and Urban Core of Summerside if the applicant can demonstrate key support to rural based industries or if the project is Island wide in scope.
• Approved applicants are only eligible to receive support for one position per fiscal year and for up to two years in a three-year cycle.

What funding assistance is available? 

• Non-profit and Municipality Organizations: The program will fund up to 75% of a position up to a rate of $18.00/hour (inclusive of vacation pay) for up to 20 weeks based upon funding of a 40-hour week. Up to 75% of the employer’s share of Mandatory Employers Related Costs (MERCS) such as EI, CPP, and Workers Compensation premiums can also be covered.
• Private Sector Businesses: The program will fund up to 50% of a position up to a rate of $18.00/hour (inclusive of vacation pay) for up to 20 weeks based upon funding of a 40-hour week. Up to 50% of the employer’s share of Mandatory Employers Related Costs (MERCS) such as EI, CPP, and Workers Compensation premiums can also be covered.

The program will not provide for non-wage related costs such as materials, supplies, rentals, travel or telephone.  

How do I apply for the program?

Please contact the Community Development Officer in your region for an application (contact information below). Applications will be reviewed for the fiscal year 2023-24 beginning April 3, 2023.

When is the program deadline?

Funding is provided ongoing throughout the year. Activities must be completed by March 31, 2024.

Who do I contact for more information?

For more information on the Rural Enhancement Employment Program and to receive an application, please contact the Community Development Officer in your area.