BioTalent Canada announced a new initiative — EnAbling Change for the Bio-economy — to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within Canada’s bio-economy. With a steadfast commitment to celebrating diversity as a cornerstone value, BioTalent Canada is leading the way in promoting the hiring of persons with disabilities throughout the province of Ontario.
This program will comprise four events designed to promote the benefits of hiring persons with disabilities in the bio-economy while providing essential guidance on adhering to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) guidelines. Two in-person events will convene in the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa, with the remaining two conducted virtually, ensuring accessibility for all participants.
“Recognizing — and embracing — diversity is no longer regarded as a charitable option; it’s a strategic advantage for employers,” asserts Rob Henderson, President and CEO of BioTalent Canada. “The EnAbling Change program embodies our pledge to help bio-economy employers understand the diverse perspectives, differences, and talents within their communities. Through inclusion, we unlock potential, strengthening our workforce and our industry.”
The program received approximately $150,000 in funding from the Ontario government as part of the EnAbling Change program. The EnAbling Change Program funds not-for-profits, industry organizations and professional associations across the province that develop and implement innovative initiatives to make Ontario accessible to people of all abilities. Since its inception, the EnAbling Change program has supported more than 230 projects across the province.
“We know that diverse and inclusive workforces are more productive, innovative, and grow profits up to three times faster than their competitors,” said Raymond Cho, Ontario’s Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “BioTalent Canada’s initiative will not only open up the bio-economy to people with disabilities, it will also help businesses thrive.”
The events aim to spark positive transformations, bringing together C-Suite biotech employers and hiring managers to tap into talent within an often overlooked, strategically valuable, labour market. “Our commitment lies in empowering employers with the necessary tools and insights to cultivate inclusive workplaces that champion respect, dignity, and accessibility,” adds Henderson.
BioTalent Canada will curate valuable insights from industry leaders who have championed inclusivity, offering a platform to share successes and best practices in hiring persons with disabilities. Additionally, individuals with disabilities working within the bio-economy will share their firsthand experiences, providing invaluable perspectives on navigating the hiring process.
In line with its mission, BioTalent Canada will develop two bilingual and accessible resources tailored to the bio-economy. These resources will equip employers with essential information on attracting, integrating, and retaining talent from the disability community while demystifying AODA reporting and compliance requirements.
In addition, BioTalent Canada will enhance its BioSkills Match talent database to facilitate easier access for persons with disabilities, enabling employers to easily connect with this diverse talent pool. With Ontario’s bio-economy facing a significant labour shortage, estimated to require an additional 25,000 workers by 2029, including persons with disabilities presents a vital solution to meeting these workforce demands.
“This initiative is not just about meeting quotas; it’s about tapping into a reservoir of talent that has been historically underrepresented,” emphasizes Henderson. “By embracing diversity and accessibility, we drive innovation, enhance competitiveness, and cultivate a bio-economy that authentically reflects the tapestry of Canadian society.”
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