Applications Open for Community Enhancement Employment Program

The provincial government has opened applications for the 2026-27 Community Enhancement Employment Program, which supports short-term employment opportunities in rural communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.

The program provides funding to eligible rural project sponsors, including municipalities, Inuit community governments, local service districts, community and economic development organizations and other non-profit groups.

Eligible projects must directly support tourism and economic development, community and municipal infrastructure, or community services. Approved project sponsors can begin work once they receive the necessary approvals from the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs.

Under the program, individuals living in rural areas may be employed on short-term projects for up to 470 hours, helping them qualify for federal Employment Insurance benefits.

According to the province, the 2025-26 program funded 135 projects and supported approximately 685 workers.

Applications for the 2026-27 program must be submitted by 4 p.m. NDT on Friday, June 26, 2026.