The Ontario government has introduced the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program, a new initiative aimed at boosting economic growth in four rural and northern regions experiencing high demand for skilled workers. This program enables local employers in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville, Sarnia-Lambton, and Thunder Bay to recruit up to 800 additional skilled workers through targeted immigration.
Addressing Labor Shortages with the REDI Pilot
The REDI pilot program, running from January 2, 2025, to December 31, 2025, is designed to help fill labor shortages in key industries, including:
- Health care
- Technology
- Skilled trades (including construction)
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) will deliver the REDI pilot, allocating 200 additional nominations per region under the Employer Job Offer streams. This initiative is expected to strengthen local economies by bringing in skilled professionals who can immediately contribute to workforce demands.
A Proven Strategy for Economic Growth
The REDI pilot builds on the success of the 2020 Regional Pilot, which allocated approximately 300 nominations to Chatham-Kent, Cornwall, and Belleville/Quinte West. Given Ontario’s ongoing labor shortages, expanding this approach is a strategic move to ensure continued economic growth in rural and northern communities.
Enabling internationally trained professionals to work in the fields they studied could contribute up to $100 billion to Ontario’s GDP over five years. Recognizing this potential, Ontario has been investing heavily in skills development and workforce training, including:
- $1.4 billion through the Skills Development Fund to train over one million workers province-wide.
- $250 million specifically for rural and northern workforce training.
- $100 million in settlement and employment services in 2024-25 to help newcomers learn English or French and secure jobs.
Ontario’s Commitment to Skilled Immigration
Ontario is actively working to streamline immigration pathways and improve labor market integration for newcomers. In 2023, the province nominated 2,045 health care professionals—including physicians, nurses, and personal support workers (PSWs)—through the OINP.
Additionally, the Working for Workers Six Act, 2024, has:
- Expanded immigration pathways for self-employed physicians under the OINP.
- Strengthened standards and enforcement mechanisms for immigration consultants handling OINP applications.
With the launch of the REDI pilot, Ontario is taking decisive action to address regional labor shortages and drive economic growth in rural and northern communities. By targeting high-demand sectors, the province is ensuring that internationally trained workers can contribute meaningfully to Ontario’s workforce.
If you are an employer in one of the REDI pilot regions or a skilled worker looking for opportunities in Ontario, now is the time to explore your immigration options. Our expert consultants can guide you through the OINP application process, ensuring compliance and maximizing your chances of success. Contact us today for a consultation!
