In a time when Canada’s youth unemployment rate has surged to a near-decade high, and over 850,000 young people are not in employment, education, or training, the urgency to act has never been greater. Our recent report, Failure to Launch, paints a sobering picture: if left unaddressed, youth unemployment could cost the Canadian economy $18.5 billion in lost GDP by 2034, alongside $5.3 billion in lost government revenue. But beyond the numbers lies a deeper, more human cost.
This is where The Network steps in – not as a silver bullet, but as a powerful, practical, and people-centered solution.
The Hidden Currency of Employment: Social Capital
Around 80% of job opportunities are found through networking. Yet, for many young people – especially those facing systemic barriers – access to professional networks is limited or even non-existent.
By offering free, low-barrier monthly events, The Network provides young people aged 18 to 30 with the tools, confidence, and connections they need to navigate the modern workforce. These aren’t just events – they’re ecosystems of opportunity, where participants learn how to build relationships that can open doors to meaningful employment.
A Program Built for the Real World
The traits that set The Network apart reflect its grounding in the reality of today’s economy:
- Inclusive and accessible: Designed to be fun and welcoming, the program lowers the intimidation- factor often associated with professional networking.
- Industry-informed: With support from professionals across sectors, participants gain first-hand insights into various sectors from diverse perspectives
- Skills-focused: Young people leave with practical tools they can use immediately.
Building a Workforce for the Future
The consequences of youth unemployment are not just individual – they’re societal. An unskilled and disconnected workforce threatens Canada’s ability to remain competitive. Programs like The Network are essential investments in our collective future.
By helping young people build social capital, The Network directly addresses one of the root causes of youth unemployment, and is a model of what effective, efficient, and intentional connection-building ooks like.
Join Us
Whether you’re a young person looking to take your first step into the workforce or a professional eager to give back – The Network is where your journey begins.
