Employment stabilization

The Stabilization of Employment Program aims to support businesses in sectors affected by seasonal or cyclical fluctuations to extend employment periods for their precarious or seasonal workforce. This initiative provides financial assistance that helps companies undertake projects to diversify their services or engage in labor-sharing partnerships with others.

The Stabilization of Employment Program is a strategic initiative implemented by the Government of Québec to combat the challenges that businesses face in industries prone to seasonal employment fluctuations. Recognizing the significance of stabilizing employment for both workers and businesses, this program offers a practical solution aimed at fostering economic resilience and sustainability. It is particularly beneficial for industries such as agriculture or fishing, where the nature of business often results in short-term employment, leading to layoffs once peak seasons end. This program is structured with two primary components: the Extension of Seasonal Employment and the Workforce Partnership and Matching. The Extension of Seasonal Employment component is designed to encourage businesses to develop projects that could prolong the employment duration of seasonal and precarious workers. It incentivizes companies to diversify their product offerings or services, thereby creating more opportunities for ongoing employment. Such diversification not only provides workers with stability but also helps businesses maintain a consistent workforce, reduce turnover, and save costs associated with hiring and training new employees. The second component of the program, Workforce Partnership and Matching, emphasizes the importance of inter-business cooperation. This part of the program supports projects that enable multiple employers to share their workforce, offering longer employment periods. It facilitates the creation of networks where businesses can collaboratively utilize resources, ensuring employees are gainfully employed even when their primary employer does not require their services. This approach is particularly effective in ensuring that the available workforce is used optimally across different sectors, thereby reducing overall unemployment. Applying for the Stabilization of Employment Program is a structured process that begins with contacting a business advisor at your local Services Québec office. This advisor acts as a guide through the application process, helping businesses understand their specific needs and how this program can cater to those needs. Each application undergoes a meticulous analysis by a business advisor who determines the amount of financial support based on the nature of the project, the enterprise's needs, and the regional economic priorities. Financial support provided through the program may cover a variety of expenses associated with the development and implementation of the proposed projects. These include salaries for extended employment periods, the wages of coordinators managing labor-sharing projects, and consultancy fees for projects requiring external expertise in workforce management. Additionally, administrative costs directly linked to the employment agreement can also be part of the financial package offered under the program. The program not only assists businesses in managing workforce challenges but also aligns with the broader economic strategy of Québec, which is committed to reducing unemployment rates, boosting economic activity, and providing sustainable job opportunities for its workforce. By stabilizing employment, businesses not only enhance their operational efficiency but also significantly contribute to the overall economic health and stability of the region. It is important for businesses considering applying to this program to have a well-thought-out project, clearly detailing how they plan to extend employment periods and the potential socioeconomic impact of such an initiative. Collaboration with other businesses for labor-sharing must demonstrate mutual benefit and resource optimization to strengthen the workforce within the community. The last update to the guidelines was in March 2024, indicating the government's commitment to keeping the program relevant and beneficial for its intended audience. For additional information or guidance, businesses are encouraged to reach out to their local Services Québec office, where they can access detailed documentation and firsthand assistance. This active engagement ensures a smooth application process, providing businesses with the best chance to secure the necessary support to stabilize their employment strategies effectively. In summary, the Stabilization of Employment Program is a vital tool for businesses navigating seasonal employment challenges, offering a financial aid framework designed to sustain and extend employment, thereby fostering economic stability throughout Québec’s diverse industries.