Lead Applicant: Ryan Gibson

Research Priority: Strong Rural Communities Projects

Program Type: Tier 1

Funding Cycle: 2022/2023

Research Centre: NA

Research Summary: This research examines the current labour shortages experienced in rural Ontario to identify potential solutions in the forms of policy and practice. It will use a mixed methods research approach to connect with rural business owners from a variety of economic sectors, newcomers (both new Canadians and new residents in rural areas), and rural economic development agencies. It will focus on the three main sources of human capital: newcomers from urban areas, immigrant newcomers, and temporary migrants, and will identify innovative solutions to attract, retain, and welcome newcomers to enable rural businesses to meet their employment requirements.