The startup operates a career opportunity platform that connects educational institutions, employers, and financial organizations to create accessible pathways for immigrants and individuals with limited financial resources. By integrating educational and job opportunities, the platform addresses the barriers to education and employment faced by these underserved populations.
Funding
$30M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
ATPAFounders
Product
Problem
Many international students face significant financial barriers when pursuing educational opportunities abroad, limiting their access to programs that could address critical labor shortages in countries like Canada. Traditional credit systems often exclude these students, as they lack established assets or high incomes, hindering their ability to fund their education and living expenses.
Solution
Passage provides a platform that connects international students with educational and career opportunities in Canada, specifically targeting programs in healthcare, skilled trades, and STEM fields where labor shortages exist. The platform offers financial solutions, including loans up to C$65,000, to help students cover tuition and living expenses. Passage utilizes AI-driven talent matching to identify genuine skill shortages and thoroughly screens candidates to ensure their success in their chosen field and meaningful contribution to their new community. By focusing on future potential and predicting earning capability, Passage aims to remove financial barriers and facilitate the transition of newcomers to life in Canada.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes international students seeking educational and career opportunities in Canada, particularly in healthcare, skilled trades, and STEM fields, who face financial barriers to accessing these opportunities. Passage also targets Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) seeking to diversify their student body and attract high-quality international students.
Features
- AI-driven matching of international talent with Canadian labor market demands in healthcare, skilled trades, and STEM
- Financial support, including loans up to C$65,000, to cover tuition and living expenses
- Streamlined application process for educational programs in Canada
- Comprehensive screening process to ensure student success and community contribution
- Support for both onshore and offshore students
- Partnerships with Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada
- Flexible loan repayment options, including potential deferral under certain conditions