As of today, recent international graduates from Alberta’s post-secondary institutions looking to start companies can apply for the program, which offers a path to permanent residence in the province. A similar program for international graduates from U.S. colleges and universities opens in January. (The Logic)

Talking point: The programs are part of Alberta’s broader attempt to diversify its economy from its focus on oil, where prices are low and unemployment high. Earlier today, Calgary-based Cenovus Energy announced plans to buy Husky Energy for $3.8 billion, as the industry consolidates amid collapsed demand. “We’ve heard loud and clear from our technology sector that access to skilled workers has been a challenge. This announcement is a big step towards addressing this talent gap,” said Innovation Minister Doug Schweitzer in today’s release. Alberta is also restricting which types of jobs are eligible for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, which it said will result in over 1,350 jobs becoming available for unemployed people in the province.