Engage, Develop, Grow Your Employability (EDGE) Program

The Engage, Develop, Grow Your Employability (EDGE) Program was established in 2020 through a collaborative partnership between StFX University (Student Career Centre + Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning) and the Province of Nova Scotia (Post Secondary Accessibility Services).  The EDGE Program offers intentional support and resources to students registered with the Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning.

The EDGE Program is aligned to the principles as outlined in the StFX Accessibility and Academic Plans where the goal is to provide equitable and accessible career related support to students which increases their competencies, promotes self-awareness, and provides opportunities to explore the world of work that is rooted in career theories.

2026 EDGE WAGE SUBSIDY PROGRAM

The NS government funds the wage subsidy program to encourage employers to hire students with disabilities. By hiring a student, you gain access to fresh perspectives and talent, as well as help the student develop valuable skills for their future careers.

To help support a living wage for students in 2026, each position must pay a minimum of $18.00/hour. The wage subsidy is available to cover $10.00/hour of the student's wages, while the employer must cover the remaining minimum of $8.00/hour plus MERCs. Work placements are for a maximum of 35 hours per week, for up to 16 weeks between May and August 2026.

Employer Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a registered business with the Registry of Joint Stocks, Canada Revenue Agency and be up to date with source deductions
• Must be registered with Workers Compensation Board coverage, as well as, comply with NS labour standards and operate out of a commercial premise
• Must confirm that no current workers will be laid off because of hiring a wage subsidy student
• Must determine a fixed rate of pay - commission only positions and piece work are not eligible
• Must be prepared to orient and train the new employee
• Must participate in a worksite midpoint check-in, complete required documentation, and end of work experience evaluation
• Must provide a full job description and letter of offer before the student is hired
• 2026 APPLICATION FORM FOR EMPLOYERS

Student Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a StFX student registered with the Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning
• Must be a StFX student from NS with a connection to Post Secondary Accessibility Services (PSAS) through the NS student loan program
• Must have completed 1, 2, or 3 years of study at StFX by April 2026 and are not graduating in 2026
• Must not have received EDGE funding in a previous year
• Must be a StFX student with good academic standing NOTE: Academic standing is used only to confirm eligibility and is not used to rank or compare applicants.
• 2026 APPLICATION FORM FOR STUDENTS

Contact: Danielle Fraser (defraser@stfx.ca) Career Transition and Employer Engagement (EDGE Program)