In Manitoba,
you count.
Your skills. Your career.
Your ambition. They all count.
Support that helps you move forward
Recognition Counts by SEED Winnipeg helps immigrants build on the skills you already have so you can take the next step in your career in Canada. We give you tailored financial counselling, a chance to apply for a loan up to $30,000, and the support you need to find work that fits your goals and feels right.
Ways you can use the loan
Education assistance
Pay for tuition, textbooks, computers and other training-related expenses.
Professional registration fees
Cover the cost of exams, licensing and other expenses required by regulatory bodies or Apprenticeship Manitoba.
Work tools and equipment purchases
Buy tools, work clothing and personal protective equipment for your job.
Living expenses
Cover essential costs such as food, housing, transportation, childcare and more.
A loan designed with you in mind
Recognition Counts offers flexible and affordable loans that specifically help you make your international experience count in Canada. No credit history is required.
Making it Count: Success Stories
If it wasn’t for SEED’s support with the process, with the money – and for my sanity – I don’t know where I would be. They have paved the path for future generations of my family.
Michelle, Nurse
The support from SEED was amazing. They answered all
my questions, gave me advice and followed up with me after my exams. This really encouraged me to finish, even when it took longer than expected.
Moody, Family Dentist
As an internationally trained physician working toward re-establishing my medical career in Manitoba, Recognition Counts provided the financial support I needed…Recognition Counts has been an essential part of my journey back to medical practice in Canada.
Lucrecia, Medical Doctor
An easy six-step process
Find a Referral Partner*
Receive a registration code
Complete your plan
Get an expert review
*A referral partner is a career specialist who guides you through your employment goals.
Schedule
a session
A Recognition Counts Loan Coordinator will contact you to schedule an information session.
Submit a loan application
Once you complete steps 3 to 5, you will meet with an Assiniboine Credit Union account manager from to complete the process.
Make your skills and career count
Learn more about Recognition Counts and find a Referral Partner.
© 2025 Recognition Counts.
All rights reserved.
In Manitoba,
you count.
Follow in the footsteps of more than 460 clients who have received over $4 million in loans and now work in a wide range of jobs across Manitoba. You'll work with career experts through a process built around your goals.
Fill out the Career Action Plan online after you register to confirm your eligibility.
Your employment counsellor will give you a registration code if the loan is appropriate for you.
Visit a location near you to make an appointment with
a employment counsellor.
| Recognition Counts | Other Loans |
|---|---|
| Designed for skilled immigrants | Not tailored to skilled immigrants |
| Loan up to $30,000 | Loan amounts vary |
| Low-interest rate | Higher interest rates |
| No loan fees or penalties | Fees and penalties are common |
| Flexible 7-year repayment term* | Stricter and shorter repayment terms |
| Ongoing support from program advisors | No personalized career support |
| Covers a range of expenses (training, exams, tools, childcare, etc.) | Usually limited to tuition or standard expenses |
| No Canadian credit history required | Often requires Canadian credit history |
Recognition Counts
Traditional lender
SEED Winnipeg offers free financial empowerment programs and services to increase opportunities for Manitobans living on low incomes. We collaborate with many diverse partners to increase our impact and build stronger communities.
Your employment counsellor will review and submit your plan if approved.
*All loans have a seven-year term with no minimum repayment period.
Answer four short questions to find out.
Are you eligible for a
Recognition Counts loan?