National Adult Literacy Database

This document, prepared by The Alliance of Sector Councils (TASC), looks at the convergence of two trends: first, increasing competition and employer need for skilled workers and, second, the growing importance of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as major employers.

The authors note that across Canada, there are exemplary initiatives in certain cities, sectors and businesses to confront these challenges. However, a focused and coordinated strategy is needed to encourage SMEs to tap into the global talent pool.

Coordinated strategies are also needed for linking the occupational regulatory systems and immigration policies in Canada in order to facilitate, not impede, the entry of skilled immigrants into the workforce.

Encouraging SMEs to hire skilled immigrants has been approached as a response to a deficit or a problem, the authors say. By contrast, their observations indicated the most promising practices are actually based on incentives.

TASC is the coordinating body for more than 35 sector councils and similar organizations throughout Canada.