Upcoming Application Deadline: January 30th, 2025

Solidarity Economy Mentorship Internship

(SEMI Program)

Do you have a project idea within the social solidarity economy (SSE) and need support to bring it to life? Then the SEMI Program might be right for you!

The SEMI program accelerates incubation efforts and cultivates leadership in the social solidarity economy (SSE) by pairing experienced mentors with aspiring individuals seeking to develop a project or to learn new skills. The SEMI program is designed to support the development of your soft and hard skills while you contribute meaningfully to an SSE project!

Receive up to $1000 to develop your skills & project!

Program Structure

If you are already working on a social solidarity economy project and you are looking for both mentorship and financial support to accelerate the development of your project - Then the SEMI program might be right for you!

The SEMI program is a flexible resource designed to guide motivated individuals in their start-up and professional development journey! To reduce financial barriers that participants may face in pursuing cooperative and social entrepreneurship, mentees and mentors receive $1000 and $500 honorariums, respectively.

As a part of the SEMI program, the Selection Committee will match you with an experienced social economy mentor who will provide you with guidance to help you develop project-related skills. Once you have been matched with a mentor, you will have at least five one-on-one consultation sessions together. The intern receives the first $500 payment after both the intern and mentor have their introductory meeting and sign the engagement agreement. The final $500 payment is distributed after the intern has completed five meetings and submitted their completed meeting minutes document.

Pilot Program Recap

The SEMI program pilot operated from April 2021 to March 2023 with support from the Regional development Network and Youth Harbour. During the pilot program, the selection committee approved a total of 30 Intern-Mentor Placements out of the 63 applications that were received.

With re-newed funding from the Foundation of Greater Montreal, the SEMI program will be accepting applications again in early August for a total of 7 intern-mentor matches for the rest of the 2024 calendar year. This initiative was made possible through the support of FGM’s Collective Fund for Social Equity.

Selection Committee

Evaluation Criteria 2024

Contribution to a Zero-Emissions Economy: The project clearly articulates its contribution to reducing carbon emissions by integrating sustainability into its operations.

Alignment with SSE Values: The project demonstrates a strong commitment to democratic governance, political autonomy, inclusivity, equity, and solidarity.

Feasibility and Viability: The project presents a detailed and realistic plan with identifiable short-term and long-term goals, addressing potential challenges effectively.

Role Alignment and Skill Development: The participant’s role and desired learning outcomes are clearly aligned with the specific needs of the project, ensuring practical skill development and sectoral knowledge acquisition through targeted mentorship.

Commitment to SSE Environment: The applicant shows a strong willingness and ability to work collaboratively in a cooperative setting, understanding and committing to SSE principles.

Professional Development Potential from Mentorship: The application outlines significant potential for the participant's professional growth, highlighting how the mentorship will enhance their professional development and skill acquisition.

Logistical Alignment: The participant’s availability and timeline are well-aligned with the program’s requirements, showing effective time management capabilities.

Overall Application Quality: The application presents a clear and coherent project vision, with understandable grammar, presentation, layout, and communication style.

Impact on Marginalized Communities: The project has a clear potential to positively impact marginalized communities, addressing issues of equity and social justice.