Windmill Microlending is excited to announce an extraordinary new donation from Scotiabank of $2.5 million aimed at empowering skilled newcomers in Canada. This funding will provide vital support such as career coaching, mentorship and other resources designed to help immigrants and refugees achieve their full potential in the Canadian workforce. It is these essential support services that have garnered Windmill an outstanding reputation from a growing newcomer client base across the country.
The partnership between Scotiabank and Windmill began in 2021 with funding provided through ScotiaRISE, the Bank’s social impact initiative designed to promote economic resilience among disadvantaged groups. This renewed $2.5 million commitment will help accelerate the number of newcomers served by Windmill’s lending and career support programs.
“Helping to improve the newcomer experience is a key area of focus for Scotiabank, as we recognize the essential role immigrants have to play in Canada’s future prosperity,” said Meigan Terry, SVP and Chief Sustainability, Social Impact and Communications Officer at Scotiabank. “We are proud of our longstanding partnership with Windmill Microlending to help support newcomers with the career planning, interview skills, networking and allyship necessary to re-establish their professional careers in Canada,” she said.
Scotiabank’s involvement with Windmill goes beyond financial contributions. Through Windmill’s mentorship program, Scotiabank employees volunteer their time and expertise to guide Windmill clients as they navigate their careers in Canada. To date, nearly 100 Scotiabank employees have volunteered or made personal financial contributions, further reinforcing their commitment to empowering newcomers.
The demand for Windmill loans and support is growing rapidly. “We are deeply thankful for Scotiabank’s generous donation, which allows us to continue providing critical career support to thousands of skilled newcomers. This partnership demonstrates the positive impact we’ve achieved together. By enabling immigrants to realize their full potential, we are contributing to a stronger, more prosperous Canada” said Claudia Hepburn, CEO of Windmill Microlending.
Through Scotiabank’s renewed commitment and the unwavering dedication of its employees, Windmill Microlending is poised to help even more newcomers succeed, fostering economic growth and building brighter futures for communities across Canada.
