Venture Niagara Is Now a Certified Living Wage Employer

Thorold, ON – Venture Niagara, a not-for-profit Community Futures Development Corporation, is pleased to announce its commitment to the well-being and prosperity of its employees and the Niagara community by becoming a Certified Living Wage Employer.

A living wage represents the income necessary for individuals and families to meet their basic needs, allowing them to live with dignity and actively participate in the local economy. A Living Wage Employer is one that voluntarily commits to pay all its employees, including contracted staff, a wage that meets or exceeds the local living wage rate. In Niagara, the living wage rate is $19.80/hr. This wage is based on the cost of living and varies depending on the region and family size. By becoming a Certified Living Wage Employer, Venture Niagara demonstrates its dedication to supporting its workforce and the community’s prosperity.

“We are proud to take this step towards building a stronger and more resilient community,” said Frank Rupcic, General Manager for Venture Niagara. “As a socially responsible organization, we firmly believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and their well-being is important.  By publicly stating our position as a Certified Living Wage Employer, we demonstrate our commitment to fair compensation, fostering employee satisfaction, and creating a positive impact on the lives of our workforce and their families. We encourage other employers to make this same choice.”

Committing to being a living wage employer will not only benefit staff at Venture Niagara but also have a ripple effect on the broader community. A well-compensated workforce is more likely to have increased job satisfaction and engagement, leading to higher productivity and enhanced customer service. The organization is eager to set an example for other similar organizations and contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

About Venture Niagara: Venture Niagara is a not-for-profit Community Futures Development Corporation, governed by a volunteer board of directors. With a legacy of 38 years of operation, it has supported business start-ups and expansions; championed ethical business practices and been active in community engagement. The organization provides business financing, business advisory services and carries out community economic development initiatives to strengthen the local economy. www.ventureniagara.com

About Certified Living Wage Niagara: The Living Wage Program is an Ontario-wide program established by the Ontario Living Wage Network, now administered by United Way Niagara and funded through the Niagara Prosperity Initiative. www.livingwageniagara.ca

For more information contact:

Frank Rupcic
General Manager
Venture Niagara Community Futures Development Corporation
905.680.8085 ext 23#
[email protected]