That can be challenging, but it depends on the sector. Take new technologies and the high-tech sector, for instance. A lot of those companies really depend on innovation and human capital in the start-up phase. Despite being small, these companies are often eager to take on co-op students. The thinking is that the students will benefit the company and improve its ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
Placing co-op students is usually tougher with small companies operating in somewhat more traditional sectors, where the demand for innovation isn't as high. The fact of the matter is that a lot of these businesses don't necessarily have the capacity to supervise students. You need people on staff who can train and support the students, and these business don't necessarily have that.
Another thing to bear in mind is that the institution or university has expectations when it comes to co-op programs and placements. It expects that students will work in an environment in which they will be trained. It expects the work environment to be conducive to learning. That is something we check. As a university, we make sure that companies wishing to take on co-op students can offer that kind of environment.