June 26, 2023
Since 2009, the Halifax Connector Program has matched more than 3,100 Connectees with nearly 1,500 Connectors to grow their professional networks in Halifax.
In honour of the Connector Program turning 10 this year, here’s a look at the top 10 milestones from the past decade.
Connector Program Launch – 2009
In 2009, the Halifax Partnership launched the Connector Program, a simple and effective networking program to match new immigrants (Connectees) in Halifax with established business and community leaders (Connectors).
Through these connections, Connectees grow their professional network in Halifax, increasing their chances of finding meaningful employment in our city, and Connectors gain access to the local pool of upcoming talent.
Within the first year the Province of Nova Scotia funded the program, recognizing the value as a successful immigrant retention initiative, and remains a key supporter today.
Connector Program Expands to Include International and Local Graduates – 2011-2012
From the success newcomer Connectees experienced with their new professional networks, the Partnership saw an opportunity to expand the program to include international and local recent graduates as Connectees, helping connect and keep even more skilled talent in Halifax.
Connector Program Expands Nationally – 2013
The simplicity of the Connector model is easily adapted and replicated by other communities to support their unique immigrant retention needs and initiatives. With support from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the Partnership expanded the Connector Program across Canada as the National Connector Program. Today, there are 39 Connector communities across Canada.
First Presentation of Connector Program Awards – 2013
To recognize the dedication and commitment of our many volunteer Connectors, we presented the first Connector Programs Awards. The most recent winners were Super Connectors Kent Lane and Nick Misener, and Connector Organization NATIONAL Public Relations.
Launch of National Connector Pre-Arrival Program – 2015
Partnering with the Planning for Canada Initiative, the National Connector Pre-Arrival Program supports eligible immigrants in building their professional network before they arrive in Canada.
Launch of Game Changers Youth Retention Action Plan – 2015
The Partnership launched Game Changers to stem the outmigration of youth ages 20-29 by inspiring and supporting businesses to hire youth, offer experiential learning opportunities, and become a Connector.
RBC Future Launch Signs on as Connector Program Presenting Sponsor – 2018
RBC, a long-time investor in the Halifax Partnership with engagement in the Connector Program since the beginning, signed on as Presenting Sponsor of the Connector Program through RBC Future Launch, its program committed to helping young Canadians prepare for the future workforce.
Connector Program Engages its 1,000th Connector – 2018
Thank you to our 1,000+ Connectors for your commitment to helping newcomers and recent graduates connect to opportunities in their industry by building their professional network. You are making a difference in your community.
Connector Program Reports 1,000th Job Found – 2018
More than 1,000 jobs have been found by Connectees as a direct result of connections made by their Connectors. These jobs are relevant to the Connectees’ experience and located in Halifax.
Connector Program Turns 10 – 2019
On August 22, nearly 100 Connectors, Halifax Partnership investors and partners celebrated the kickoff of the Connector Program’s 10th anniversary aboard the Harbour Queen. Click here to read more.
Thank you to the Province of Nova Scotia, RBC Future Launch, and our volunteer Connectors. The Connector Program would not be the success that it is without your engagement and support. Keep an eye out on our website and social media channels for more Connector Program Anniversary content like this!
Click here to view the 2018-19 Connector Program Annual Report.