NexGen Builders Shortlisted Employers
The NexGen Builders Award recognizes an individual or organization who puts into practice best practices identified by the Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Benchmarks (GDEIB,) standards for organizations around the world.
As an Employer (organization), the nominee has excelled in supporting the welcome and professional growth and development of diverse workers in the workplace.

Construct, A Social Enterprise by Blue Door
Construct is a Social Enterprise by Blue Door, a non-profit organization that is the largest emergency housing provider in York Region. Construct provides vulnerable youth and adults who are at risk of or who have recently experienced homelessness in the York, Durham, and Peel Region with in-class training and hands-on work experience in the construction industry. The first program of its kind in York Region, Construct provides an innovative and unique opportunity for individuals experiencing barriers to employment to receive low-barrier training in a paid pre-apprenticeship program. The program provides job readiness, and on-the-job experience for participants, prioritizing those who face barriers to employment due to discrimination, poverty, and mental health challenges.

Trillium Architectural Products Ltd.
Trillium Architectural Products staff are door, hardware and security experts. They offer design, installation and maintenance services for doors, frames and hardware, electronic security devices and accessibility devices, as well as various specialty items. Trillium works as a subcontractor or partner on many commercial construction projects that include community benefits programs. Trillium’s hiring philosophy has always focused on an individual’s merit and potential for growth. We have a long track record of employing people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. We are proud that our workforce reflects the city's diversity. Trillium has worked with the Toronto Community Benefits Network on recent hires of people in underserved communities. New employees are encouraged to learn and grow within this industry by participating in real-work work environments right from day one.

Building Up
As Toronto’s leading social contractor, Building Up runs an intensive pre-apprenticeship trades training program for individuals who face barriers to employment. Building Up’s experienced tradespeople collaborate with trainees previously facing barriers to employment to provide Toronto with a range of high-quality construction services. We provide an opportunity for customers to improve the livability of their spaces while propelling careers in construction of community members. Building Up’s vision is to break cycles of systemic inequity, by leveling the playing field through a holistic network of supports that prioritize long term impact for its participants. The profits generated by our work fund this social cause. 90% of Building Up graduates have moved into apprenticeships and/or full-time employment.