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By Émile Audet
December 8, 2025

Who Can Apply for Riipen Level UP Internships

Riipen's Level UP program offers organizations the opportunity to engage with Canada's brightest students through fully subsidized, 60-hour internships. These internships allow businesses to address short-term project needs while providing valuable work-integrated learning experiences for students. But who exactly can take advantage of this innovative program?

Program Overview

Level UP is part of the Government of Canada's Innovative Work-Integrated Learning (I-WIL) Initiatives, designed to foster collaboration between businesses and students. Participating organizations can convert business challenges into practical projects, all while tapping into top student talent from universities and colleges across Canada. Each completed project involves a direct stipend of $1,400 paid to the student by Riipen, ensuring that the financial burden on participating organizations is minimized.

Applicant Type Requirements

To qualify for the Level UP program, your organization must be a registered Canadian business or a non-profit. This eligibility ensures that a wide range of organizational types can benefit from the program, from small startups to established non-profits. However, certain entities are excluded from participation, such as members of the House of Commons, organizations involved in partisan political activities, and government bodies at all levels. For complete eligibility requirements, see the complete program guide.

Size & Scale Criteria

While Level UP does not impose specific size restrictions on participating organizations, the program is particularly beneficial for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) seeking innovative solutions without the financial strain of traditional hiring. Whether your organization is a microenterprise or a larger corporation, if you are looking to explore new ideas and test potential talent, Level UP could be an ideal fit.

Geographic Eligibility

Level UP projects are designed to be completed remotely, making the program accessible to organizations across all Canadian provinces and territories. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for businesses located in regions with limited local talent pools. With the support of virtual communication tools like Google Meet and Zoom, projects can be managed seamlessly from anywhere in Canada.

Project & Activity Requirements

Eligible projects for Level UP internships should align with the program's goal of fostering work-integrated learning. This includes activities that provide meaningful student engagement and practical experience. Typical projects might involve roles in digital marketing, data analysis, or software development, offering real-world applications of students' academic knowledge.

Financial & Operational Criteria

There are no specific financial health criteria for organizations wishing to participate in Level UP. However, organizations must be in good standing and capable of providing a productive learning environment for students. For details on operational expectations, visit the complete program guide.

Ineligible Applicants

Certain organizations are excluded from participating in Level UP. These include publicly funded post-secondary institutions, government entities, and any organization engaged in political activities. Ensuring your organization meets these basic criteria is essential before applying. For a detailed list of exclusions, refer to the complete program guide.

Special Cases & Exceptions

While the program is broadly accessible, certain exceptions and special cases may arise. Organizations involved in unique partnerships or those operating in niche sectors may require additional clarification. In such instances, it is advisable to consult the complete program guide for guidance.

Conclusion

The Riipen Level UP program represents a unique opportunity for Canadian businesses and non-profits to leverage student talent in addressing project needs. By understanding the eligibility criteria and aligning your organization's goals with the program's offerings, you can effectively participate in this innovative work-integrated learning initiative. To explore full eligibility details and begin your application, consult the complete program guide.

About the author

Émile Audet - Canadian grants specialist

Émile Audet

Canadian grants specialist
Working at helloDarwin for some time now, I'm in charge of providing you with the information you need on government aid. Dedicated to helping companies in Quebec and Canada reach their full potential, I write on the helloDarwin blog about the various programs, allowances and funding available to enable organizations to make their digital transformation through access to federal and provincial support.

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