The Ontario government has introduced the Regional Economic Development Pilot Program (REDI) to address labour shortages and promote economic growth in selected rural and northern regions. This initiative operates under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and aims to support local businesses, strengthen communities, and diversify Ontario’s economy.

The programme runs from January 2, 2025, to December 31, 2025, with the target of bringing in up to 800 highly skilled immigrants.

Purpose of the Regional Economic Development Pilot Program

The REDI pilot has been created to help regions facing persistent labour shortages, particularly in technical fields, healthcare, and skilled trades. Many rural communities struggle to attract and retain workers, making it difficult for local businesses to grow. This programme offers a long-term solution by connecting employers with qualified newcomers.

Key Objectives

• Solve labour shortages in high-demand sectors.

• Boost economic growth in rural and northern communities.

• Encourage immigration to non-urban regions, reducing population imbalance.

• Support newcomers with easier pathways to permanent residency.

Why This Programme Matters

Ontario’s economy relies heavily on skilled labour, but rural areas often face talent shortages. The REDI pilot distributes immigration benefits more evenly and supports regions that play a crucial role in agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and community services.

Small communities gain access to global talent, while newcomers receive meaningful job opportunities and a better quality of life.

Goals of the REDI Pilot Programme

The REDI initiative has several strategic and clearly defined goals.

1. Address Labour Shortages

One of the most important goals is to fill essential positions in sectors such as:

• Healthcare (nurses, doctors, support workers)

• Technology (IT specialists, system analysts)

• Skilled Trades (electricians, welders, mechanics)

Local employers often struggle to find qualified workers, slowing down economic development. REDI aims to close this gap by bringing in skilled professionals ready to contribute immediately.

2. Support Economic Growth

By placing skilled workers in rural and northern communities, OINP is encouraging long-term economic stability. Skilled immigrants can help businesses expand operations, open new services, and contribute to the economic resilience of the region.

Impact on local economies:

• Increased productivity

• More stable workforce

• Growth of small businesses

• Stronger local service industries

3. Promote Settlement in Non-Urban Areas

Many immigrants naturally gravitate toward cities like Toronto, Ottawa, or Hamilton. The REDI pilot promotes balanced population distribution by encouraging new arrivals to consider less populated regions.

Benefits of regional settlement:

• Affordable housing

• Higher quality of life

• Strong community connections

• More job opportunities in growing fields

4. Support Newcomer Integration

The programme also helps newcomers settle successfully in their chosen community. With local support services, immigrants can access:

• Housing assistance

• Language training

• Job-readiness programs

• Social and community integration services

These services help newcomers build stable lives, contributing to long-term community success.

Participating Regions

The REDI pilot includes four Ontario regions, each facing critical labour shortages.

Designated Communities

• Lanark County

• Leeds and Grenville (United Counties)

• Sarnia–Lambton

• Thunder Bay City

Each region receives 200 additional nominations through the OINP Employer Job Offer streams.

How the REDI Pilot Works

The REDI programme functions through OINP’s existing Employer Job Offer (EJO) streams.

Programme Structure

• Start Date: January 2, 2025

• End Date: December 31, 2025

• Total Nominations: 800 skilled immigrants

• Streams Used:

  • Foreign Worker Stream

  • International Student Stream

  • In-Demand Skills Stream

Application Process

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Candidates must register in the OINP EOI system and indicate interest in one of the Employer Job Offer streams.

2. Meet Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must have a valid job offer from an employer within a REDI region.

3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Qualified candidates may receive an ITA from OINP.

4. Apply for Permanent Residency

With a provincial nomination, candidates can apply directly to IRCC.

Role of Participating Communities

The designated regions play a key part in the pilot’s success.

Community Responsibilities

• Promotion & Outreach: Inform employers about REDI opportunities.

• Employer Screening: Ensure employers follow immigration and settlement protocols.

• Settlement Support Coordination: Work with local agencies to help newcomers.

• Reporting: Provide regular updates to Ontario’s MLITSD.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility varies depending on the Employer Job Offer stream.

General Requirements

• A full-time, permanent job offer in one of the designated regions.

• Genuine intent to live and work in the hiring community.

• Valid licences or certifications, if required.

1. In-Demand Skills Stream Requirements

Job Offer Requirements:

• Full-time and permanent

• Within approved in-demand occupations

• At or above the median wage

Applicant Requirements:

• At least 9 months of work experience

• Minimum high school education

• CLB 4 English requirement

• ECA evaluation (if educated outside Canada)

2. Foreign Worker Stream Requirements

Job Offer Requirements:

• Full-time and permanent

• TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 job

• Median wage or higher

Applicant Requirements:

• 2 years of relevant experience

• Valid licence (if occupation is regulated)

3. International Student Stream Requirements

Job Offer Requirements:

• Full-time and permanent

• Related to the applicant’s field of study

Applicant Requirements:

• Graduated from an eligible Canadian institution within the last 2 years

• Minimum CLB 4 language proficiency

Benefits of the REDI Pilot Programme

The REDI initiative offers powerful benefits for both immigrants and Ontario communities.

Benefits for Local Economies

• Helps fill critical labour shortages

• Supports business growth and stability

• Strengthens regional workforce

Benefits for Employers

• Easier access to qualified workers

• Reduced hiring challenges in specialized fields

Benefits for Immigrants

• Clear pathway to permanent residency

• Affordable living in rural communities

• Support with settlement and integration

• Family sponsorship opportunities

• Better work–life balance

Long-Term Impact

• Up to CAD 100 billion expected contribution to Ontario’s economy over five years

• Stronger, more resilient rural and northern communities

Conclusion

The REDI Pilot Programme is a forward-looking initiative that supports both Ontario’s economic needs and the ambitions of skilled immigrants. By helping rural and northern communities attract talent, the programme strengthens the province’s long-term prosperity and creates new opportunities for newcomers seeking stability, meaningful employment, and a high quality of life.