FarmWorks promotes and provides strategic and responsible community investment in food production and distribution in order to increase access to a sustainable local food supply for all Nova Scotians. FarmWorks Community Economic Development Investment Fund (CEDIF) enables Nova Scotians annually to purchase common shares in a diversified portfolio of businesses that yield meaningful financial returns on investments. These investments provide subordinated debt financing for farms, food processors, and value-added food producers, helping to increase the viability and sustainability of agriculture and the security of a healthy food supply. For more information on FarmWorks, visit https://farmworks.ca/

Creating the right environment for business to flourish in the new economy is one of the strategic directions outlined in the province’s growth strategy. To this end, Nova Scotia Department of Business focuses on development of public policy especially as it relates to promoting the best environment for businesses to start and expand in the digital economy.  Click here to visit Nova Scotia’s Department of Economic Development.

A part of the provincial network of Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs), South Shore Opportunities is an important contact as you develop your business. Assisting with every phase of development, SSO can assist with your business plans, advise and assist with training, as well as directing you to appropriate funding channels whether it be through their CBDC programs or by referring you to more appropriate forms of financing. You can reach South Shore Opportunities by e-mail or by phone at 902-354-2616, 1 (800) 303-2232. For more information, visit their website.

At Invest Nova Scotia we are working towards a strong, thriving and globally competitive Nova Scotia. We work with companies is all communities to be more successful exporters, and attract global investment to create new jobs across the province. We can help you find the right program or service for your business. Some include:

  • Business Advice
  • Trade Missions
  • Training and Workshops
  • Export Growth Program
  • Small Business Development Program
  • Innovation Rebate Program
  • Productivity and Innovation Voucher Program
  • Market Intelligence

Learn more about exporting your products or service to countries around the globe by visiting our website.

ACOA works with businesses and communities to make the local economy more innovative, productive and competitive. ACOA administers several funding programs and is also a valuable resource in researching other available federal money for your business. For more information, visit the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency website or contact the Area Account Manager for Queens/Shelburne at 902-875-7324.

The Canada Business Service Centre is an excellent starting point for entrepreneurs. Offering help in dealing with multiple levels of government, the CBSC provides consolidated business information, business planning and market research. Click here for their online tool designed to help businesses find sources of funding. If you wish to speak with someone at the CBSC directly, they can be reached at 1 (800) 668-1010.

The Nova Scotia Farm Loan Board supports the development of sustainable agriculture and agri-rural business in Nova Scotia through responsible lending. The Board is a leader in agricultural lending, creating opportunities in rural Nova Scotia. For more information on the NSFLB, visit their website.