Venn Innovation, in partnership with the McKenna Institute at the University of New Brunswick, recently announced the launch of TechConnect Southeast, a new program designed to break down barriers and connect job seekers with real opportunities.
Designed for newcomers, underrepresented groups and those in need of Canadian work experience, this program offers paid work placements, hands-on training, and one-on-one mentorship to help participants gain industry-relevant skills and land meaningful jobs.
"There is a significant gap in meaningful employment opportunities for new entrants and individuals facing barriers in the tech sector," said Venn president and CEO, Doug Robertson. "These challenges include lack of Canadian work experience, lack of paid employment opportunities, the need for real-world technical skills and access to professional networks."
"Ensuring newcomers and equity-deserving groups are supported in building upon their existing skills and tech experience can lead to shorter job searches, meaningful employment and the opportunity to thrive in our province," said Adrienne Oldford, executive director of the McKenna Institute. "We are thrilled to work with Venn Innovation to provide structured, paid work placements combined with training and mentorship to help new residents establish tech careers in New Brunswick."
Inspired by the success of a similar program in the Greater Fredericton area, Working NB and the Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour (PETL) approached Venn and the McKenna Institute to mount a similar program in the Greater Moncton region.
"We see an opportunity to blend workplace experience and growing the professional network of IT professionals with the community needs of non-profits and small and medium-sized enterprises in southeast New Brunswick" said acting PETL Minister, Jean-Claude D'Amours. "This program will enhance the growing community of Civic Tech volunteers and build on the wealth of local partnerships."
One of the key local partners for the project is the Southeast Regional Service Commission (SERSC), which is very active working with newcomers to the region through a variety of programs and services.
"This project aligns very strongly with our efforts to address the human resources challenges we see in the southeast region," said SERSC general manager for economic development, Francesco Calazzo. "A critical aspect of workforce development efforts is helping to provide meaningful opportunities for newcomer tech talent to apply their skills and stay here in southeast New Brunswick," he added.
The TechConnect Southeast program officially started on June 1, 2025, with Shannon McMackin, who has been playing a leadership role with the Civic Tech movement in the area, serving as the program coordinator.
About Venn Innovation
Venn Innovation is a leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to fostering growth and success within New Brunswick's innovation ecosystem. We have a proven track record of supporting startups, providing mentorship, and collaborating with community partner to address the region's talent and skills development needs. Our initiatives connect industry leaders, emerging businesses, and individuals looking to break into the tech sector, enabling a thriving, resilient local economy.
About the McKenna Institute
The McKenna Institute fuels economic growth and social progress by advancing the use of digital technologies in New Brunswick. The Institute collaborates to accelerate our talent pipeline, nurture ideas and enable all New Brunswick communities to thrive in a digital world. We connect the ecosystem to foster digital equity, digital literacy excellence and digital adoption and innovation across economic and social sectors to catalyze change and investments in digital transformation in New Brunswick and beyond.
