Build tech skills with IBM SkillsBuild. Gain experience through Riipen

The IBM SkillsBuild program offers a powerful combination of online learning and hands-on project experience by Riipen in collaboration with IBM SkillsBuild. Learners gain valuable skills and micro-credentials directly aligned with the demands of the tech industry for free. Upon completing the program, qualified learners can be hired by the employers from their program. 

This experience connects employers with motivated learners who have recently gained new skills in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, project management, software development and user experience.

By hosting a short-term project, you provide valuable real-world experience to learners while advancing your business goals and growing your hiring pipeline.

Project Structure:

• Each project includes 60 hours of learner work.
• Learners will apply to projects between December 1 and December 9, 2025. To maximize your chances of connecting with the right talent, be sure to actively monitor and respond to applications promptly. You don’t want to miss out on an outstanding learner because another project accepted their application first.
• Project work will take place between December 15, 2025 to February 7, 2026.

Mentorship Commitment:

• As a project host, you commit to a minimum of 5 hours of mentorship.
• This includes a kickoff meeting, providing instructions and feedback, and ongoing support throughout the project.

Flexibility and Support:

• Projects are open to learners who have recently completed an IBM SkillsBuild course and are looking to make a change in their career.
• Be specific about your project’s requirements and scope to attract the best-matched applicants.
• Each employer may host up to two projects. Each project can include one or two learners.
• Learners receive $1,400 CAD for successful project completion, paid by Riipen.

How to Make Your Project Stand Out:

• Craft a clear and concise project description. Check out our project templates!
• Outline expectations, required skills, and deliverables.
• A well-defined scope attracts more qualified and motivated applicants.

Get Started Today

For more information, visit the IBM SkillsBuild Help Centre. For support, click the avocado icon at the bottom right of your Riipen dashboard or email us at ibmskillsbuild@riipen.com. Our team is here to assist you and will respond within two business days.

Projects require clearly defined deliverables outlined in the project description. Deliverables include the working documents and the final project uploaded for review and payment. This may encompass source code, presentations, analysis report, performance results, etc.

To validate completion, learners submit deliverables as uploaded files with a reflective note. Tangible proof or samples of completed work are necessary, with redacted deliverables if under a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).