Canadian Government’s $100 Million Boost for Newcomer Integration
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Announcement of New Investment
Settlement services are essential for newcomers thriving in Canada. They assist with employment, language acquisition, housing, and overall integration into Canadian society. The pandemic has intensified the complexity of settling in a new country, making these services even more vital.
To enhance access to these critical supports, the Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, has announced a $100 million investment over three years. This funding aims to refine how newcomers access settlement services through the Service Delivery Improvements (SDI) process.
In the 2020-2021 period, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched the SDI funding process. Out of this, 78 projects were selected to explore innovative integration strategies and support the settlement sector’s recovery post-pandemic. Notable projects include:
- The University of Windsor’s project using AI to create effective settlement strategies for newcomers.
- Accessible Community Counselling and Employment Services’ initiative to connect newcomers with employers in smaller communities, encouraging settlement in these areas.
- S.U.C.C.E.S.S.’s project on employing an anti-oppression framework to tackle systemic racism in immigrant services.
As online service delivery has become more prevalent during the pandemic, SDI funding will help IRCC assess and adapt services to meet these evolving needs.
Ministerial Insight
“Settlement services are a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration system, facilitating work, housing, and language training. This challenging period has highlighted the importance of support for everyone, especially newcomers facing the unique difficulties of pandemic-era integration. The new SDI projects aim to enhance settlement services, empowering every newcomer to realize their potential in Canada.”
– The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Information
- Since 2017, SDI projects have focused on creating innovative solutions to support newcomer settlement and integration.
- The new funding begins in fall 2021 and continues until March 31, 2024.
- The SDI expression of interest process occurs every three years, inviting new study areas and funding projects up to three years, subject to adjustments based on acquired insights.
Related Resources
- IRCC’s open funding processes
- Grants and Contributions System (GCS) partner portal
- Settlement Outcomes Highlights Report (PDF, 4.2 MB)
Contact Information for Media
Alexander Cohen
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
alexander.cohen@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the $100 million investment?
The investment aims to improve settlement services for newcomers, ensuring they have the necessary support to integrate successfully in Canada.
How will the funding be used?
The funding will support 78 projects that explore innovative settlement strategies and respond to the sector’s post-pandemic needs.
When does the funding period begin and end?
The funding commences in the fall of 2021 and concludes on March 31, 2024.
How often is the SDI expression of interest process held?
This process occurs every three years, inviting new project proposals for funding consideration.
How can I learn more about the projects?
For more details on these projects, visit the Read our immigration guide.
