Get Experience that Pays!

The Ability Edge program is a paid internship program specifically designed for university, and college graduates with self-declared disabilities. Through Ability Edge’s 6, 9 or 12-month internships, graduates with disabilities obtain meaningful work experience at a variety of Canadian organizations. Ability Edge program paid internships are in a wide range of fields, such as finance, marketing, human resources and computer science.

The Ability Edge paid internship program is a great way to launch your career and it ensures that each position is challenging and provides a significant learning opportunity. Over 50% of our interns are hired by their host organizations, and approximately 65% find work in their field within one to two months of completing their internship.

You are eligible to become an Ability Edge intern if you:

• Are a person with a self-declared disability;
• Have a university bachelor's degree or college diploma/certificate;
• Have little or no career related work experience;
• Are eligible to work in Canada; and
• Have not previously been a Career Edge or Ability Edge Intern.

Reap the Benefits!

• Gain practical work experience in your field of choice
• Develop employability skills such as teamwork, problem solving, and communication
• Are mentored by a coach (usually your supervisor)
• Network with people in your field
• Receive a stipend of $1,833/month

Advantages of the Ability Edge Program

Less Competition: Individuals who register for Ability Edge internships go through an approval process in order to qualify for the Ability Edge program. This ensures only people with disabilities have access to these opportunities.

Available Internships: Graduates registered under the Ability Edge program are eligible to apply to both Career Edge and Ability Edge internships. This increases the number of internships you can apply to and increases your chances of securing a career launching opportunity. Career Edge and Ability Edge internship opportunities are similar in challenge, work experience and scope of responsibility.

Targeted Internships: Companies that use the Ability Edge program have targeted programs to increase diversity in their organizations and are focused on the recruitment of people with disabilities. Many of these organizations are federally regulated and are required by the government to ensure the percentage of employees with disabilities in their workforces reflects the percentage of employable people with disabilities in their community.

Knowledgeable host organizations: Organizations that target people with disabilities have employees who are knowledgeable about the issues facing people with disabilities as they enter or re-enter the workforce. They will work with the team members in the department where you are placed to ensure your transition is smooth. These specialists understand how to conduct accommodation assessments and the need to have the necessary accommodations in place before you arrive on your first day.

To register with the Ability Edge program

1. Complete the Ability Edge registration form.

2. If you meet the eligibility requirements, we will e-mail you a confirmation notice.

3. Once you have received confirmation, login using your e-mail address and password. Use the password that you input on your registration form.

4. Apply to any Ability Edge and Career Edge internships that fit your background.

5. If you do not meet the Ability Edge program eligibility requirements, register for the Career Edge program at any time to look at the Career Edge internships.

Please e-mail us at info@abilityedge.ca if you have difficulty registering, have career counseling needs, or have any questions regarding the Ability Edge program.

Are you concerned about how being a Career Edge intern with the Ability Edge program will affect your eligibility for benefits under ODSP or other assistance programs? Please e-mail us at info@abilityedge.ca to discuss your individual situation.