# Navigator Scout — Atlantic Canada Business Program Directory > Machine-readable directory of 385 business support programs (grants, loans, advisory services, training, incubators, workspaces, events, tools) available to entrepreneurs and small businesses in Atlantic Canada: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Curated and maintained by Navigator Scout (https://navigator.aicrafted.ca). Last generated: 2026-04-25. Per-program "last verified" dates are included below. --- ## Category: financing (36) ### Access Ability Wage Subsidy Program for Employers - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0dYCl1agFWCLB3g - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Wage subsidy program covering $9/hour for up to 700 hours of a work placement, helping small and medium businesses in Atlantic Canada hire individuals living with disabilities. **Details.** Established in 2008, Access Ability provides wage subsidies to eligible employers in Atlantic Canada who hire individuals living with disabilities. The subsidy covers $9 per hour for up to 700 hours of a work placement. Benefits include help with employee coaching, offset of wage costs, and support for employee accommodations. In-person, hybrid, and online employment arrangements are accepted. Employers must commit to retaining the participant after the placement period. **Eligibility.** Small to medium sized business; 700-hour work placement (full-time or part-time); open position that is not in dispute or a lay-off; employer must be willing to bring on employee permanently after placement term ### Business Development Program - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/business-development-program.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Business Development Program provides interest-free repayable funding to help Atlantic Canadian businesses hire experts, create business plans, and improve productivity. **Details.** The Business Development Program (BDP) is one of ACOA's four core programs. It offers interest-free repayable funding for businesses in Atlantic Canada. The program explicitly supports activities such as hiring an expert, creating a business plan, and improving productivity. It is listed under ACOA's main Programs section as a permanent core offering. The page text describes it with the tagline: 'Hire an expert, create a business plan, improve your productivity -- all with interest-free repayable funding.' **Eligibility.** Businesses operating in Atlantic Canada. Specific eligibility criteria are available on the program detail page. ### Community Futures - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/community-futures.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Community Futures Program supports entrepreneurs looking to start or scale up their businesses through loans and training delivered via local Community Futures organizations across Atlantic Canada. **Details.** Community Futures provides loans and training to entrepreneurs through a network of Community Futures organizations across Atlantic Canada. The program is targeted at those looking to start or scale up a business, with support delivered at the community level through local organizations. It is listed under ACOA's core Programs section as a permanent offering. The page describes it as: 'Start or scale up your business with loans and training to entrepreneurs through the Community Futures Program.' **Eligibility.** Entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada seeking to start or scale up a business. Delivered through local Community Futures organizations. ### Innovative Communities Fund - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/innovative-communities-fund.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Innovative Communities Fund provides funding for community-level economic development projects in Atlantic Canada. **Details.** The Innovative Communities Fund provides funding for community projects in Atlantic Canada. It is positioned as a program for organizations with community-oriented economic development initiatives. It is listed under ACOA's core Programs section as a permanent offering. The page describes it as: 'If you have a community project in mind, check out the Innovative Communities Fund to see if it's right for you.' **Eligibility.** Organizations with community economic development projects in Atlantic Canada. ### Black Entrepreneurship Program Ecosystem Fund - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/bep-ecosystem-fund-atlantic-canada.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Ecosystem Fund supports Black-led non-profit organizations in Atlantic Canada to deliver high-impact business services such as mentorship and capacity building, as part of the broader Black Entrepreneurship Program. **Details.** The Ecosystem Fund is a key component of the federal Black Entrepreneurship Program. It strengthens the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem by supporting Black-led non-profit organizations to deliver high-impact business services such as mentorship and capacity building. In Atlantic Canada, ACOA administers this fund. The program explicitly targets organizational recipients (Black-led non-profits) rather than individual entrepreneurs directly. The full description on the page reads: 'The Ecosystem Fund is a key component of the Black Entrepreneurship Program. It strengthens the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem by supporting Black-led non-profit organizations to deliver high-impact business services such as mentorship and capacity building.' **Eligibility.** Black-led non-profit organizations delivering entrepreneurship support services in Atlantic Canada. ### Northern Isolated Community Initiatives Fund - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/northern-isolated-community-initiatives-fund.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The NICI Fund supports current and new food-related initiatives that strengthen and diversify economic activity in the territories and throughout Inuit Nunangat, including Nunatsiavut in northern Labrador. **Details.** The Northern Isolated Community Initiatives (NICI) Fund supports food-related initiatives that strengthen and diversify economic activity in the territories and throughout Inuit Nunangat, which includes Nunatsiavut (northern Labrador). The page describes it as: 'The NICI Fund supports current and new food-related initiatives that strengthen and diversify economic activity in the territories and throughout Inuit Nunangat, which includes Nunatsiavut (northern Labrador).' ACOA's role applies specifically to the Nunatsiavut portion of Inuit Nunangat. **Eligibility.** Organizations in the territories and Inuit Nunangat (including Nunatsiavut) with food-related economic initiatives. ### Access to Capital (Loans and Grants) - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/financial-assistance - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** BBI provides loans and grants to eligible Black-owned businesses and connects clients with alternative funding resources. Loans can be used for capital investments, working capital, and short-term receivable financing. **Details.** BBI provides direct financial assistance through loans and grants to eligible Black-owned businesses. Loans can be used for capital investments (equipment, leasehold improvements, property improvement, office equipment), working capital (inventory, payroll, lease payments, accounts management, rent, overhead costs), and short-term receivable financing (financing to service a contract). BBI also connects clients with alternative funding resources beyond its own programs. **Eligibility.** Self-identify as Black or Black-led; majority ownership (>51%) by Black Canadians; legal resident of Canada; minimum 18 years; must have a business plan, business registration, and recent financial statements or projections ### Business Consulting Advisory Services Grant Program - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: financing - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/business-consulting-advisory-services-grant-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** This program gives Black entrepreneurs the opportunity to work with a consultant to build up and strengthen their operations and continue to grow their clientele. **Details.** The Business Consulting Advisory Services Grant Program provides Black entrepreneurs with the opportunity to work with a consultant to build up and strengthen their operations and continue to grow their clientele. The program is designed to help businesses improve their operational capacity through professional consulting support. **Eligibility.** Black entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada. Specific eligibility criteria available on the program page. ### Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/sbcci - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A federally funded initiative delivered by BBI to increase the capacity of Black-led grassroots and not-for-profit organizations that serve Black communities across Canada. Provides grants to help nonprofits grow stronger and better support their communities. **Details.** The Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) was created by the Federal Government through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to help increase the capacity of Black-led grassroots and not-for-profit organizations that serve Black communities in Canada. BBI delivers this program, which provides funding so nonprofits can better support Black communities. The Round 4 Call for Proposals is now closed, but the program continues with training series and updates. Grant writing workshops are offered as part of the program support. **Eligibility.** Must be a Black-led grassroots or not-for-profit organization serving Black communities in Canada ### Business Consulting Advisory Services (CAS) Grant Program - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: financing - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/business-consulting-advisory-services-grant-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A grant program that provides Black-owned businesses in Atlantic Canada with funding to engage consultants for expertise in areas such as sales/marketing strategy, business management, technology/digital support, and e-commerce integration. The 2025-2026 intake is now closed. **Details.** The Black Business Consulting Advisory Grant (CAS) Program supports Black-owned businesses in Atlantic Canada to access expertise to build, grow, and scale their businesses. The program provides grants to cover the costs of engaging a consultant. Support areas include development of sales or marketing strategy, business management development practices, technology or digital support, and e-commerce integration. The goal is to help entrepreneurs build up and strengthen their operations and continue to grow their clientele. The 2025-2026 program is now closed; prospective applicants can sign up for the newsletter to be informed when it reopens. **Eligibility.** Must be at least one-third Black-owned; be at least 6 months in operation; can demonstrate the need for consulting support requested ### General Business Loan - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewater.commongoalsapp.com/ApplyNow?appid=4 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Repayable business loans up to $300,000 for eligible applicants in rural HRM, with competitive interest rates starting at 7.45% and flexible repayment terms. Financing can include demand or term loans, loan guarantees, or equity investment. **Details.** From small businesses to larger ones, the General Business Loan provides commercial financing when traditional lenders are unavailable. Loans can be used for start-up costs, purchasing new or existing companies, expanding an existing business, working capital, land and buildings, fixed assets, machinery and equipment, fixtures and furniture, business vehicles, franchise purchases, and leasehold improvements. Loans are secured and can be for multiple years. The board meets twice per month to make investment decisions. No prepayment penalties; lump sum payments accepted at any time. **Eligibility.** Entrepreneurs or businesses purchasing a new or existing company in rural HRM; expanding an existing business; an existing company in need of working capital. Both year-round and seasonal businesses are eligible. Potential borrowers must show a legitimate chance of economic viability. Employment creation and/or maintenance without negatively impacting existing area businesses is a necessity. ### First-Time Entrepreneur Loan - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewater.commongoalsapp.com/ApplyNow?appid=4 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Loan program designed for new businesses needing capital to cover initial expenses such as equipment purchases, inventory, and working capital. Offers competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms. **Details.** The First-Time Entrepreneur Loan is tailored for individuals starting their first business in rural HRM. It provides the necessary capital for start-up costs including equipment, inventory, and working capital. The loan comes with advisory support to guide new entrepreneurs through the early stages of their ventures. **Eligibility.** First-time entrepreneurs starting a new business in rural HRM. ### Social Enterprise Loan - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewater.commongoalsapp.com/ApplyNow?appid=4 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Loans up to $300,000 for non-profits, charities, cooperatives, or societies in rural HRM to support revenue-generating business operations, with competitive interest rates and loan amortizations of up to ten years. **Details.** CBDC Blue Water's Social Enterprise Loan is available to non-profits (including charities), cooperatives, or societies in need of business support in the form of a loan or loan guarantee. Financing is used to buy assets, renovate existing ones, or expand a social enterprise. Loans are specifically intended to provide financial support for revenue-generating business operations of officially registered non-profit organizations. Loan amortizations of up to ten years are available based on the life expectancy of acquired assets. **Eligibility.** Both new and existing social enterprise businesses are eligible. The social enterprise may be seasonal or year-round. Must be located in rural areas of HRM. May be used to start-up a new social enterprise or expand, renovate, or upgrade an existing one. The business operations should provide a realistic expectation of economic viability, ensure sound business practices, and facilitate job creation and maintenance. ### Youth Loan - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewater.commongoalsapp.com/ApplyNow?appid=4 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Repayable loan for young entrepreneurs aged 18-34 to access capital for business start-up, expansion, or modernization in rural HRM, with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms. **Details.** The Youth Loan provides young entrepreneurs access to capital for business start-up, expansion, or modernization. It is available as a repayable loan with competitive interest rates and repayment terms. CBDC Blue Water also helps young entrepreneurs cover the cost of business management and other training. Loans may be for start-up costs, fixed assets, and/or working capital. Leasehold improvements and franchise purchases also qualify. May be used to acquire assets of a previous business at arm's length at or below current market value. **Eligibility.** Must be between ages 18-34. Eligible for business start-up, modernization, or expansion. Seasonal and year-round businesses qualify. Eligible borrowers may be a sole proprietorship, limited company, or partnership (majority of care and control must reside with the new entrepreneur). The intended business operations must not have a negative impact on existing area businesses. The borrower's business should have a reasonable expectation of economic viability and employment creation/maintenance. ### Immigrant Loan - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewater.commongoalsapp.com/ApplyNow?appid=4 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Loans up to $5,000 at 10.2% fixed interest for immigrants starting a business in rural HRM, created in partnership with ISANS. Includes counselling and training services. **Details.** CBDC Blue Water and ISANS created the Immigrant Loan to help immigrants starting a business in the Halifax Regional Municipality. The program also offers counselling and training services. Loans up to $5,000 are available with fixed interest at 10.2% (Canada Prime Rate plus 3%). No penalties for early payout or lump sum payments. For clients with temporary resident status, repayment must be completed within 3 months of expiring visa date. Seasonal/part-time and year-round businesses are acceptable. **Eligibility.** Applicants must be new immigrants with temporary resident status or permanent residency, or Canadian citizens born outside of Canada. Must be registered clients with ISANS Business Development Programs. Must be age 19 years and older. Must be located in rural/semirural HRM. Sector eligibility is determined by CBDC Blue Water. ### Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) - Grow Your Business Online - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalmainstreet.ca/atlantic-cdap/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A federal micro-grant program of up to $2,400 to help eligible businesses in the Atlantic Provinces adopt e-commerce tools, supported by a network of e-commerce advisors. Administered through Digital Main Street and the New Brunswick Association of CBDCs in partnership with ISED. **Details.** The Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) Grow Your Business Online grant helps businesses in the Atlantic Provinces grow their business online. Eligible businesses receive a micro-grant of up to $2,400 to help with costs related to adopting e-commerce. The program is supported by a network of e-commerce advisors who help assess business needs and discover opportunities. Any business that has generated gross revenues of $30,000 or more in the past 12 months can be eligible, even without employees. The program is offered in partnership with Digital Main Street and the New Brunswick Association of CBDCs. **Eligibility.** Any business that has generated gross revenues of $30,000 or more in the past 12 months, even if they do not have any employees. Business must have generated at least $30,000 gross revenue in the past 12 months Must be in the Atlantic Provinces ### CEED Start-Up & Expansion Loans - Organization: CEED - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/business-loan-inquiry/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Character-based business loans from $5,000 to $50,000 for entrepreneurs starting or growing a business in Halifax, Dartmouth, and Bedford, Nova Scotia. Interest rate is Bank of Canada rate + 2%, with terms up to 5 years and no early repayment penalties. **Details.** CEED Loans are character-based business loans designed specifically for emerging entrepreneurs who need accessible funding. Loan amounts range from $5,000 to $50,000 and are available to entrepreneurs in Halifax, Dartmouth, and Bedford, Nova Scotia. The interest rate is Bank of Canada rate + 2%, with terms up to 5 years and no early repayment penalties. CEED evaluates applications based on the entrepreneur's idea, business plan, commitment, and forward path rather than just credit score. The loan process typically takes 6-8 weeks and includes business plan analysis, financial review, credit and net worth review, and senior management and Loan Review Committee evaluation. An admin fee is required to begin the review process but does not guarantee approval. Post-loan support includes quarterly meetings in the first year and semiannual meetings thereafter. Loans can be used for equipment, tools, inventory, marketing, website development, vehicle purchases, working capital, start-up costs, and operational setup. They cannot be used for debt refinancing, property purchases, R&D, training, certifications, or travel. **Eligibility.** Must be starting or growing a business locally in Halifax, Dartmouth, or Bedford; must have or be ready to register a business; must demonstrate clear use of funds; must show ability to repay; must be open to advisory support and review ### WEOC National Loan Program - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://app.simplycast.ca/?q=forms/take&i=64e2b0d2907f49.89823533 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** As an official Loan Fund Partner for the WEOC National Loan Program, CWB provides access to loans up to $50,000 with terms up to 5 years and flexible payment options for women entrepreneurs. The program is made possible with Government of Canada funding through the Women's Entrepreneurship Strategy. **Details.** The WEOC National Loan Program is a partnership between WEOC (Women's Enterprise Organizations of Canada) and its loan fund partners across Canada, funded by the Government of Canada through the Women's Entrepreneurship Strategy. The program offers an inclusive approach to lending with robust wrap-around services. Key features include loans in any amount up to $50,000, terms up to 5 years, and flexible payment options. CWB connects women entrepreneurs to the program by pairing financing with business advisory support. **Eligibility.** Must meet WEOC loan eligibility criteria. Detailed eligibility information available at weoc.ca/loan-eligibility/ ### Digital Nova Scotia TechQuity Award - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://cfns.ca/digital-nova-scotia-techquity-award/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Educational award supporting African Nova Scotian students pursuing undergraduate studies in technology fields such as computer science, IT, digital innovation, and cybersecurity. **Details.** The TechQuity Award addresses barriers faced by students from underserved communities underrepresented in tech. Candidates must be graduating from a Nova Scotia high school, accepted into an undergraduate program (at least 1 year) at a recognized Nova Scotia post-secondary institution in a program listed under CIP Canada section 11 (Computer and information sciences). Selection is based on demonstrated interest in the technology sector and description of eligibility as a member of an underserved community. **Eligibility.** Must be graduating from a Nova Scotia high school, accepted into an undergraduate program (min 1 year) at a recognized Nova Scotia post-secondary institution in CIP Canada section 11 (Computer and information sciences). Must be a member of an underserved/underrepresented community in the digital sector. ### Core Startup Program - Organization: Futurpreneur - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://route.futurpreneur.ca/_forms/default.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f_layouts%2f15%2fAuthenticate.aspx%3fSource%3d/en-ca - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Futurpreneur's flagship program providing up to $75,000 in collateral-free startup loan financing (up to $25,000 from Futurpreneur and up to $50,000 from BDC) alongside up to two years of one-on-one mentorship, business resources, and networking opportunities for young Canadian entrepreneurs ages 18-39. **Details.** The Core Startup Program combines accessible, equity-free loan financing with mandatory one-on-one mentorship for up to two years. Entrepreneurs receive up to $25,000 from Futurpreneur matched 2:1 with up to $50,000 from BDC, for a combined maximum of $75,000. The program includes access to Rock My Business workshop series, business planning tools, and networking opportunities with a national network of entrepreneurs, leaders, and community organizations through virtual and in-person events. Financing and mentorship cannot be accessed separately. The Futurpreneur loan portion has a five-year term with interest at CIBC's prime rate + 3% (capped at 9% if prime exceeds 6%), interest-only payments in the first year, and a 1% loan management fee. The BDC portion is up to $50,000 at BDC's floating base rate + 1.65% with similar five-year terms. **Eligibility.** Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39 physically residing in Canada. Must demonstrate some training or experience related to the business idea. Business must not yet be operational or have been operating full-time for 24 months or less. Must produce a complete and viable business plan and 24-month cash flow. Must authorize a personal credit check. Eligible applicants must represent more than 50% controlling ownership of the applicant business. Cannot be an agent or contractor working for another existing business. Taxes must be paid up to date. Must not be named as party to a lawsuit. ### Black Entrepreneur Startup Program (BESP) - Organization: Futurpreneur - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/black-entrepreneur-startup/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A tailored program for young Black entrepreneurs ages 18-39 providing up to $75,000 in inclusive startup loan financing (up to $50,000 from Futurpreneur funded by RBC, plus up to $25,000 from BDC), up to two years of mentorship delivered by a team with lived experience, networking opportunities, resources, and follow-on financing of up to $40,000. **Details.** The Black Entrepreneur Startup Program (BESP), launched in March 2021 and funded by RBC with additional loan financing from BDC, is specifically designed to address the systemic credit and capital access barriers faced by young Black entrepreneurs. The program is delivered by a dedicated team with their own lived experience. BESP provides $5,000 to $75,000 in inclusive startup loan financing: up to $50,000 from Futurpreneur (funded by RBC) and up to $25,000 from BDC. Participants also receive up to two years of one-on-one mentorship, access to a Canada-wide network of Black entrepreneurs, and business planning tools and resources. A distinctive feature is the availability of up to $40,000 in follow-on financing (funded by RBC) based on the first two to three years of successful business performance. The program includes more inclusive financing criteria, with adjusted credit adjudication recognizing systemic barriers to credit faced by Black entrepreneurs. The Futurpreneur loan portion charges RBC's prime rate + 3% (capped at 9% if prime exceeds 6%), with interest-only payments in the first year and a five-year term. **Eligibility.** Must self-identify as Black. Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39 physically residing in Canada. Business must not yet be operational or have been operating full-time for 24 months or less. When there are only two partners, the business must be majority Black-owned (>50%). When there are more than two partners, the business must be at least 25% Black-owned. Intersectionality is welcomed (e.g., those who identify as Black and Indigenous). All general Futurpreneur eligibility criteria also apply. ### Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP) - Organization: Futurpreneur - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/indigenous-entrepreneur-startup/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A tailored program for young Indigenous entrepreneurs (First Nations, Metis, or Inuit) ages 18-39 providing up to $75,000 in startup loan financing (up to $25,000 from Futurpreneur and up to $50,000 from BDC), up to two years of one-on-one mentorship delivered by an all-Indigenous team, culturally appropriate resources including the Ohpikiwin workshop series, and networking opportunities. **Details.** The Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP) is designed and operated by an entirely Indigenous team that understands the barriers to success faced by young Indigenous entrepreneurs. The program provides startup loan financing of up to $75,000: up to $25,000 from Futurpreneur and up to $50,000 from BDC. It includes up to two years of one-on-one mentorship from experienced business leaders. The IESP offers access to Futurpreneur's Ohpikiwin workshop series, designed to strengthen financial empowerment through an Indigenous lens, as well as business planning workshops and tools. Participants can engage with a national network of Indigenous entrepreneurs, leaders, and Indigenous-led community organizations. The program has made adjustments to its credit matrix for equitable accessibility, recognizing that many Indigenous individuals experience credit barriers and disadvantages due to colonialism. The program supports Indigenous entrepreneurs both on and off reserve. All learning content is created and delivered by an Indigenous team, incorporating Indigenous worldviews and histories. Futurpreneur partners with numerous Indigenous organizations across Canada including NACCA, NEDC, First Peoples Fund, and others. **Eligibility.** Must self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Metis, or Inuit). Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39. Business must not yet be operational or have been operating full-time for 24 months or less. Must have a Futurpreneur-eligible business model and qualified credit standing (with adjusted credit matrix). All general Futurpreneur eligibility criteria also apply. Intersectionality is welcomed. ### Side Hustle Program - Organization: Futurpreneur - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/side-hustle/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program for young entrepreneurs ages 18-39 who want to launch or grow a part-time business while maintaining full-time employment, providing up to $25,000 in equity-free loan financing, up to two years of one-on-one mentorship, and access to business resources and networking. **Details.** The Side Hustle Program supports entrepreneurs who want to start or grow a business while keeping their full-time job. It provides up to $25,000 in equity-free, collateral-free loan financing from Futurpreneur (no BDC co-lending component), paired with up to two years of one-on-one mentorship. Participants gain access to business planning tools including the Rock My Business workshop series and a Canada-wide network of entrepreneurs. The loan has a five-year term with interest at CIBC's prime rate + 3% (capped at 9% if prime exceeds 6%), interest-only payments in the first year, principal repayments over the remaining four years, no penalty for early repayment, and a 1% loan management fee at disbursement. The program requires that for the next 12 months, the side business remains the applicant's secondary source of income. Indigenous entrepreneurs are also eligible to apply to the Side Hustle Program. **Eligibility.** Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39 physically residing in Canada. Must have a full-time income outside of the side business. For the next 12 months, the side business must remain the applicant's secondary source of income. Must produce a business plan and 24-month cash flow. All general Futurpreneur eligibility criteria apply except the full-time sustainable employment requirement. ### Innovation Rebate Program - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/innovation-rebate-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Innovation Rebate Program (IRP) provides financial incentives for projects that assist Nova Scotia in expanding, hiring, and investing in innovation. **Details.** The Innovation Rebate Program provides financial incentives for projects that assist Nova Scotia companies in expanding operations, hiring, and payroll growth. It supports companies in advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defence, agri-food and beverage, clean technology, critical minerals and mining, life sciences, ocean technology, and seafood. Targets small businesses in Nova Scotia or Canada looking to expand to Nova Scotia. **Eligibility.** Small business in eligible sector; must be expanding, hiring, or investing in innovation in Nova Scotia ### Payroll Rebate - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/payroll-rebate - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A performance-based incentive that provides a return on eligible gross payroll, paid annually, to help growing companies succeed in Nova Scotia. **Details.** The Payroll Rebate is a performance-based incentive administered by Invest Nova Scotia designed to reward results. It provides a return on eligible gross payroll, paid annually. The program targets companies expanding to or growing in Nova Scotia, with eligibility extending to businesses located anywhere in the world that wish to establish operations in the province. **Eligibility.** Company establishing or expanding payroll-generating operations in Nova Scotia ### Early Stage Commercialization Fund (ESCF) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/early-stage-commercialization-fund - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Early Stage Commercialization Fund helps move Nova Scotia university, college, and university-affiliated hospital research to market. **Details.** The ESCF supports the commercialization of research from Nova Scotia post-secondary institutions and university-affiliated hospitals. It targets start-ups in clean technology, life sciences, and ocean technology sectors. The fund is currently closed for submissions. **Eligibility.** Research originating from Nova Scotia university, college, or university-affiliated hospital ### Productivity and Innovation Voucher Program (PIVP) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://investns.formtitan.com/ftproject/pivp_application_fy2025 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** PIVP provides vouchers (Tier 1: up to $15,000; Tier 2: up to $25,000) to help small and medium-sized Nova Scotia companies access post-secondary institution research and resources to improve productivity, develop new products/services/processes, and grow their business. **Details.** The program helps businesses access expertise within post-secondary institutions. Tier 1 vouchers of up to $15,000 are for businesses that have not previously been awarded a voucher or are applying with a new project. Tier 2 vouchers of up to $25,000 build on work completed through a Tier 1 voucher. Companies are limited to two Tier 1 vouchers. Eligible service providers include Acadia, CBU, Dalhousie, MSVU, NSCAD, NSCC, Saint Mary's, StFX, Universite Sainte-Anne, and the Verschuren Centre. **Eligibility.** Small and medium-sized companies based in Nova Scotia. Limited to two Tier 1 vouchers per company ### Supplier Diversity Certification Program (SDCP) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://investns.formtitan.com/ftproject/sdcpapplication2025 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** SDCP provides financial support to diverse-owned Nova Scotia businesses to offset the costs of obtaining supplier diversity certification, reimbursing 100% of the one-time certification fee up to $1,000. **Details.** The program supports diverse-owned businesses (51% owned by 2SLGBTQIA+, Indigenous, Women, Veterans, People living with Disabilities, Black Nova Scotians, African Nova Scotians, and other Racialized People) in obtaining certification through CAMSC, IWSCC, CQCC, WEConnect International Canada, or WBE Canada. This certification can provide access to specific supplier diversity procurement programs within private sector corporations and government departments. **Eligibility.** Must have an approved first-time certification from one of five certifying agencies dated between January 1, 2025 and February 27, 2026. Must be a diverse-owned Nova Scotia registered business in good standing with permanent establishment in Nova Scotia. Must have a product/service with potential to be sold outside Nova Scotia. First-time certification only Must be 51% diverse-owned ### Nova Scotia First Fund (Venture Capital Investment) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/start-up-nova-scotia/venture-capital-investment - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Through the Nova Scotia First Fund, Invest Nova Scotia invests in emerging technology companies with high growth potential. **Details.** The Nova Scotia First Fund is Invest Nova Scotia's venture capital investment program targeting emerging technology companies with high growth potential based in Nova Scotia. The fund aims to find, fund, and foster innovative start-ups striving to commercialize technologies and succeed in global markets. **Eligibility.** Emerging technology company with high growth potential based in Nova Scotia ### Digital Media Tax Credit - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/digital-media-tax-credit - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A refundable tax credit for costs directly related to the development of interactive digital media products in Nova Scotia, administered by the Nova Scotia Department of Finance. **Details.** The Digital Media Tax Credit is a refundable tax credit for costs directly related to the development of interactive digital media products in Nova Scotia. This incentive is not administered by Invest Nova Scotia but is listed on their platform. It is administered by the Nova Scotia Department of Finance. **Eligibility.** Company developing interactive digital media products in Nova Scotia ### Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund (AICLF) - Organization: ISANS - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/program/atlantic-immigrant-career-loan-fund-aiclf/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A micro-loan program for internationally trained immigrants across all four Atlantic provinces to overcome financial barriers to career goals. Average loan is $15,000 at RBC prime + 1%. No collateral, no previous credit history, and no current employment required. **Details.** The AICLF helps internationally trained immigrants upgrade skills, obtain licenses or certifications, and find employment in their field. Funds can be used for registration fees, licensing and examination fees, training, tuition, textbooks, travel and accommodation for exams, and work tools. During study period, participants pay interest only. Loans can be repaid early without penalty. 397 clients have benefited. Funded by the Foreign Credential Recognition Program. **Eligibility.** Must be an immigrant Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Must reside in NS, NB, PEI, or NL. Must be a registered ISANS client. Must have completed training or certification outside Canada. Must have credentials accredited or recognized. No undischarged bankruptcy. Must have a return-to-work action plan. ### Innovation PEI Support Programs Access - Organization: LaunchPad PEI - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://launchpadpei.com/about-launchpad/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Through its partnership with Innovation PEI, LaunchPad PEI clients can access rebate programs for marketing, capital expenditures, and, if applicable, payroll rebates. These programs are designed to de-risk business growth and ease cash flow obligations during expansion. **Details.** LaunchPad PEI originally started as a program offered by Innovation PEI to the PEI startup ecosystem. As a full partner with Innovation PEI in business development, client businesses can access rebate programs for areas such as Marketing, Capital expenditures, and, if applicable, payroll rebates. These programs are designed to de-risk growth and ease the cash flow obligations that expansions cause. **Eligibility.** Must be an accepted LaunchPad PEI client operating in Prince Edward Island. ### Funding (Impact Loan via Ignite) - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://myignite.ca/loans-and-grants - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Access to funding opportunities including the Impact Loan, administered through Planet Hatch's sister organization Ignite. **Details.** Planet Hatch connects entrepreneurs with funding opportunities through its partnership with Ignite. The Impact Loan is available through Ignite's loans and grants program. Additional funding discussions can be directed to funding@myignite.ca. Specific loan terms, amounts, and eligibility requirements are managed by Ignite. **Eligibility.** Details available through Ignite ### Atlantic IP Advantage - IP Strategy - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/ipadvantage/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Funding program that connects startups with IP professionals to develop an executable intellectual property strategy, covering 90% of costs up to $50,000. **Details.** The IP Strategy stream of Atlantic IP Advantage provides funding for startups working with Atlantic Canadian business accelerators or incubators to develop an executable IP strategy. Startups work with Springboard Atlantic IP Advantage teams and Regional IP Counsellors to develop applications and are matched with qualified IP service providers. The program covers 90% of costs up to $50,000, with funding paid directly to IP service providers. Launched in July 2023 as the Atlantic Canadian delivery partner for Elevate IP, supported by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). The program is directed by Niraj Shukla with Regional IP Counsellors in each Atlantic province: Shelley Hessian (Nova Scotia), Libby Carew (Newfoundland & Labrador), and Andre Pelletier (New Brunswick). **Eligibility.** Startup must be less than 10 years old and have an affiliation to an Atlantic Canada business accelerator or incubator. Startups must complete IP awareness training. ### Atlantic IP Advantage - IP Strategy Implementation - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: financing - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/ipadvantage/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Funding program that connects startups with IP experts to implement their IP strategies, covering 90% of costs up to $25,000. **Details.** The IP Strategy Implementation stream of Atlantic IP Advantage provides funding for startups to implement their IP strategies with qualified IP service providers. Eligibility is limited to startups that have attended IP awareness events. Startups work with Springboard Atlantic staff to develop applications. The program covers 90% of costs up to $25,000, with funding paid directly to providers. This is the second of two funding streams under the IP Advantage program. Together with the IP Strategy stream, the total potential funding per startup is up to $75,000. **Eligibility.** Eligibility is limited to startups that have attended IP awareness events. Must have an IP strategy or have completed the IP Strategy stream. Must be affiliated with an Atlantic Canadian business accelerator or incubator. ### Start Small Grant - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: financing - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/start-small-grant - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Tribe Start Small Grant Program Powered by Emera provides $500-$1,000 in non-repayable funding, mentorship, workshops, and community support to help Black, Indigenous, and racialized changemakers in Atlantic Canada launch or grow early-stage ideas. **Details.** The Tribe Start Small Grant Program Powered by Emera provides early-stage funding and support to Black, Indigenous, and racialized entrepreneurs and grassroots leaders in Atlantic Canada who are just getting started. The program offers microgrants of $500-$1,000 to support a business or initiative, mentorship from experienced changemakers in business and community leadership, workshops and webinars to develop skills and confidence, peer support through a growing network of racialized founders across Atlantic Canada, and ongoing access to Tribe Network resources and opportunities. The program runs from August to October 2025. Applicants must be a Tribe Network Platform member (free), identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Colour, be part of a business that is at least 33% racially owned, lead a business or community project with less than $5,000 in total revenue, live in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, or Newfoundland and Labrador, and not be a previous recipient of the Emera Start Small Grant. **Eligibility.** Must be a Tribe Network Platform member (signing up is free). Must identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Colour. Must be part of a business that is at least 33% racially owned. Must be leading a business or community project with less than $5,000 in total revenue. Must live in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, or Newfoundland & Labrador. Must not be a previous recipient of the Emera Start Small Grant. --- ## Category: advisory (32) ### ACOA Business Information Services - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/business-information-services.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** ACOA Business Information Services provides free advice and information to entrepreneurs and businesses in Atlantic Canada, accessible by phone (1-888-576-4444) and email, Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm Atlantic time. **Details.** ACOA Business Information Services is a free advisory service that provides entrepreneurs with information and guidance about ACOA's programs, financing, and business resources. It is the primary intake point for all ACOA programs. Contact channels include a toll-free phone line (1-888-576-4444) and dedicated email addresses for each Atlantic province: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, plus a general email for inquiries from outside Atlantic Canada. Hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm Atlantic time. The service is prominently featured as a top navigation item on the Programs and Initiatives page, indicating it serves as a gateway to all other ACOA offerings. **Eligibility.** Open to all entrepreneurs and businesses seeking information about ACOA programs and services. No formal eligibility requirements for the advisory service itself. ### Business Counselling and Advisory Services - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** One-on-one business counselling for current and aspiring Black business owners, covering all stages from idea through established business. BBI advisors provide personalized guidance on starting, developing, growing, and expanding a business. **Details.** BBI offers business counselling services where clients are matched with a Business Advisor who provides personalized support. The intake process collects information about business stage (from idea through established business over 2 years), industry, and assistance needed (business advice, funding, networking, or other). Advisors respond within 2-3 business days. Services encompass the full journey from idea validation to scaling an established operation. **Eligibility.** Must self-identify as Black or be a Black business owner/aspiring entrepreneur ### Business Advisory Service - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/pages/staff - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free one-on-one advisory services from Business Development Officers covering business planning, registration, government services, market information, exporting advice, and digital marketing. **Details.** CBDC Blue Water's Business Development Officers offer objective and practical one-on-one advice designed to provide entrepreneurs with the knowledge, know-how, and tools to manage their business. General business advisory areas include: referrals to other services and specialists, how to plan/register/start a small business, government services and regulations affecting businesses, economic and market information, exporting advice, and assistance through the process of writing a business plan (review for content and accuracy). A Digital Marketing Advisory service is also available from the Marketing Coordinator, covering topics such as determining target markets, understanding marketing channels, content marketing strategy, social media tips, and referrals to freelance marketers/graphic designers. **Eligibility.** Entrepreneurs in rural HRM seeking to start or grow a business. ### Digital Marketing Advisory Service - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/pages/staff - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Advisory services from CBDC Blue Water's Marketing Coordinator to help small business clients succeed with online marketing, covering target markets, marketing channels, content strategy, social media, and referrals to freelance marketers. **Details.** CBDC Blue Water's Marketing Coordinator offers advisory services regarding the digital marketing of small businesses. This service is designed to help CBDC Blue Water's clients succeed using online methods to advertise and market their business. Advisory topics include: determining a business' target market; understanding the best marketing channels to reach customers; helping clients determine a manageable content marketing strategy; providing tips on using social media to grow their brand; and referral to freelance marketers/graphic designers as required. **Eligibility.** Available to CBDC Blue Water clients. Must be a CBDC Blue Water client ### Consultant Advisory Services (CAS) - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/pages/consultant-advisory-services - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** ACOA-funded program administered by CBDCs providing access to professional consultants for diagnostic assessments, business management development, access to capital guidance, market readiness, business coaching, valuation, diversity and inclusion, climate change advisory, and aftercare/mentoring. **Details.** The Consultant Advisory Services (CAS) Initiative offers eligible participants access to professional consulting services across 10 categories: (1) Diagnostic assessments of existing operations, (2) Business Management Development Practices including board governance and HR, (3) Access to Capital consulting for business plans and funding proposals (not for new start-ups), (4) Market Readiness/Export Potential assessments, (5) Specific Studies/Business Plans Mentoring, (6) Business Coaching for leadership and supervisory skills, (7) Business Valuation by a Chartered Business Valuator, (8) Diversity and Inclusion assessments, (9) Climate Change advisory including carbon footprint assessments and ESG strategies, (10) Aftercare/Mentoring and Follow-Up. Projects that identify potential to increase productivity and digitization or develop/attract workforce from under-represented communities are prioritized. A second CAS application requires approval from the NS Association of CBDCs. **Eligibility.** Eligible participants with existing businesses in rural HRM. Access to Capital consulting is not intended for new start-ups. A second CAS application requires approval from the NS Association of CBDCs. ### Free Discovery Call - Organization: CEED - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/free-30-minute-consultation/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free 30-minute virtual one-on-one session with a CEED business advisor to explore which CEED programs can best support the entrepreneur and their business. **Details.** CEED's Free Discovery Call provides entrepreneurs with a 30-minute virtual consultation with a knowledgeable business advisor. The session is designed to discuss specific business challenges, get expert advice, and determine which CEED programs and services are the right fit. Each entrepreneur is entitled to one Free Discovery Call. All consultations are held virtually and require a device with camera, speakers, and microphone. **Eligibility.** One free discovery call per entrepreneur ### Expert Strategy Call - Organization: CEED - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/expert-strategy-call/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Customized one-on-one paid advisory sessions with a CEED Business Development Expert, available for the number of hours the entrepreneur needs. **Details.** CEED offers customized one-on-one Expert Strategy Calls where entrepreneurs are matched with a Business Development Expert. The expert meets with the entrepreneur for as many hours as needed to provide expert advice and support for specific business challenges. This is a paid service for continued advisory beyond the initial free discovery call. ### Business Blueprint Boost - Organization: CEED - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/business-blueprint-boost/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Business plan review. **Details.** Plan review and PDF summary ($49/hr). **Eligibility.** Entrepreneurs with a business plan. ### Business Advisories - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://app.simplycast.ca/?q=forms/take&i=64e2b0d2907f49.89823533 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** One-on-one business advisory sessions available to women at all stages of entrepreneurship, from pre-startup through high-growth. Business advisors provide guidance on business planning, growth strategy, and operational challenges. **Details.** CWB offers dedicated business advisory services with experienced advisors across regions. Advisors include specialists for startup and student programs, Cape Breton region support, and growth-stage businesses. The advisory services cover business planning, market positioning, financial analysis, and operational support. Consulting advisory services are available for sustaining, growing, and high-growth businesses. **Eligibility.** Open to women-identifying and gender diverse business owners and entrepreneurs ### Advice, Resources, Connections (ARC) Services - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1WAE6n3_tTXq55SBBoCrkggcaql3 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A comprehensive initiative providing entrepreneurs with one-on-one coaching, mentorship, skills development, guidance on funding opportunities, goal setting, accountability, and connections to local industry experts and mentors. Services are available for periods of 6 to 12 months and include hot desking space and meeting room access. **Details.** The ARC Services (Advice, Resources, Connections) provides entrepreneurs with a one-stop shop to build their ventures. Services include business and industry-specific development sessions covering marketing plans, business plans, business processes, financial forecasting, business registration, pitch development, and progressing from first sales to recurring sales. Participants receive connections with industry-specific mentors, a prestigious business address, one-on-one coaching sessions with in-house business advisors for accountability, soft skills development, and general support. Additional benefits include access to events for networking and business development, hot desking space, and meeting rooms for client meetings. The program caters to both previous program participants and new founders looking for a collaborative and supportive environment. **Eligibility.** Validated business idea. Understanding of market research. Identified value proposition. Clear business goals for the next 6 or 12 months. Proven commitment to build the business. An open growth focused mindset. ### Founders Resources Directory - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://dalideahub.ca/founders/founders-resources/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A curated directory of external resources for startup founders covering company formation, non-dilutive funding programs, growth support, and R&D resources in Atlantic Canada. **Details.** The Emera ideaHUB maintains a curated directory of resources organized into four categories: Start a Company (Dalhousie OCIE, ACOA Business Information Services, Dalhousie Tech & Innovation Law Clinic), Non-Dilutive Funding (ACOA Programs, Invest Nova Scotia, NRC-IRAP, RBCx, ISED Testing Stream, Fundica, government grants portal, Atlantic Canada business grants, Mitacs Accelerate, SR&ED tax credits, Futurpreneur), Grow Your Startup (Export Development Program, investment terminology, Nova Scotia hiring incentives, co-op student hiring, Next Founders), and Research & Development (Dalhousie Office of Research Services, Lab2Market, Research Nova Scotia, Enginuity). These are external partner resources compiled to support founders navigating the ecosystem. **Eligibility.** Publicly available resource directory. Individual resources have their own eligibility requirements. ### Tourism Digital Assistance Program - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/tourism-digital-assistance-program/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Partnership with Tourism Nova Scotia connecting tourism businesses with digital service providers to develop or enhance digital marketing tools and capabilities. **Details.** In partnership with Tourism Nova Scotia, Digital Nova Scotia connects tourism businesses with digital service providers that can help them develop or enhance effective digital marketing tools. The program gives the digital community the opportunity to collaborate with the tourism sector. A separate Communities stream connects community tourism organizations with digital service providers. **Eligibility.** Nova Scotia tourism businesses ### 1:1 Coaching - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/membership - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Personalized coaching and mentorship pairing founders with experienced mentors and advisors for hands-on guidance tailored to their startup stage. Included with Genesis Membership. **Details.** Genesis pairs founders with experienced mentors and advisors who offer hands-on guidance, real-world insights, and support tailored to each founder's stage. This 1:1 coaching is a core component of the Genesis offering, available through the Membership program. Every founder's path is different, and the coaching is designed to address individual challenges and opportunities. **Eligibility.** Available to Genesis members in Newfoundland and Labrador. Requires Genesis Membership enrollment. ### SmartBusiness Services - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free, one-on-one business advisory service for registered businesses in Halifax Regional Municipality. The SmartBusiness team connects businesses to programs, resources, partners, and advisors to help with market expansion, supply chains, productivity, funding access, and resilience building. **Details.** The SmartBusiness Program offers no-cost, personalized support to over 450 businesses per year across Halifax Regional Municipality. The team connects businesses directly with the right programs, partners, and advisors from a network of 30+ organizations. Resources include navigating Canada-U.S. trade disputes, a Business Continuity Toolkit, a Business Resource Directory, and Disaster Recovery Support. Supported by the Government of Nova Scotia. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered business operating in Halifax Regional Municipality. ### Hire International Talent Advisory - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/connect-to-talent/hire-international-talent/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free consultation for Halifax employers on hiring international talent through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), Nova Scotia Nominee Program, and Global Talent Stream. Provides guidance on employer designation, program eligibility, and the recruitment process. **Details.** Halifax Partnership's labour market team helps employers identify the right immigration programs and supports them through the hiring process. Services include AIP designation support, Global Talent Stream referrals as a Designated Referral Partner, and guidance on the Nova Scotia Nominee Program streams. For AIP, employers must become designated by the Province of Nova Scotia, meeting requirements around continuous operation and compliance. **Eligibility.** Must be an employer operating in the Halifax region. For AIP designation, must have been in continuous active operation for at least 2 years in an Atlantic province and be in good standing with employment standards and OHS legislation. ### SmartBusiness Program - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free, one-on-one business advisory service that connects registered businesses in Halifax Regional Municipality to programs, resources, partners, and advisors to overcome challenges and pursue growth opportunities. **Details.** The SmartBusiness Program provides no-cost, one-on-one support to registered businesses across Halifax Regional Municipality. The SmartBusiness team takes time to understand business goals and connects owners directly with the right programs, partners, and advisors. Support areas include expanding into new markets, strengthening supply chains, boosting productivity and innovation, accessing funding and expertise, building resilience and recovering from disruptions, and maximizing growth opportunities. The program leverages a network of senior-level decision-makers from over 30 public, private, and post-secondary organizations. The program supports more than 450 businesses each year in HRM and is supported by the Government of Nova Scotia. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered business in Halifax Regional Municipality ### Hire International Talent (Global Talent Stream) - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/connect-to-talent/hire-international-talent/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** As a Designated Referral Partner for the Global Talent Stream, Halifax Partnership refers eligible Halifax employers and guides them through the application process to hire temporary foreign workers for unique and specialized positions. **Details.** Halifax Partnership serves as a Designated Referral Partner for the Global Talent Stream (GTS). The service helps Halifax-based employers hire skilled international workers by: allowing businesses to hire a Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) to fill unique and specialized positions, helping businesses expand and compete on a global scale, and allowing certain skilled workers to obtain a work permit within two weeks of applying. The Labour Market team guides employers through the application process. This service is supported by the Government of Canada. **Eligibility.** Must be an eligible Halifax-based employer looking to hire skilled international workers for unique and specialized positions ### Business Intelligence - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/business-intelligence/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Halifax Partnership's team of economists provides businesses in the Halifax region with access to customized economic data, presentations, and analysis to inform growth decisions. **Details.** Halifax Partnership's team of economists measure growth in Halifax by tracking key economic indicators. The economists can provide: customized content for industry presentations, tradeshows, and pitches; general statistics on Halifax for investors, businesses, residents, and policymakers; macro-economic research about industries, demographics, and population; and in-depth presentations of the Halifax Index, Economic Strategy, and local economy. Resources include an up-to-date economic dashboard and the Halifax Index (an annual comprehensive report on Halifax's progress across economic and social indicators). ### Navigating the Canada-U.S. Trade Dispute - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/trade-market-development/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Advisory service helping Halifax businesses navigate the Canada-U.S. trade dispute and mitigate economic impacts of tariffs. **Details.** Halifax Partnership provides targeted advisory support to help local businesses navigate potential U.S. tariffs and mitigate economic impacts from the Canada-U.S. trade dispute. This service is offered as part of the SmartBusiness Program. **Eligibility.** Must be a business in Halifax Regional Municipality ### Disaster Recovery Business Support - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/halifax-disaster-recovery-business-support/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The SmartBusiness Disaster Response Team helps Halifax businesses access support when impacted by disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. **Details.** Halifax Partnership's SmartBusiness Disaster Response Team helps businesses impacted by disasters. The service assists businesses in responding to and preparing for disasters including hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. Through this program, businesses can access urgent support and connect to recovery resources. **Eligibility.** Must be a business in Halifax impacted by a disaster ### Trade Market Intelligence (TMI) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/trade-market-intelligence-tmi - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free research service that provides Nova Scotia companies with critical market and trade intelligence, including competitor analysis, supply chain considerations, trade regulations, market characteristics, and marketing research, through access to proprietary databases and sector specialists. **Details.** TMI helps Nova Scotia companies access critical market and trade intelligence to identify export opportunities including supply chain alternatives. The service includes one-on-one collaboration with a Regional Business Development Advisor and the TMI Manager to refine research objectives, resulting in a detailed customized report. Types of research include competitor analysis, supply chain considerations, trade regulations, market characteristics, marketing research, and industry certifications. **Eligibility.** Must be a revenue-generating business based in Nova Scotia with less than 75 FTEs. Must be export-ready or looking to diversify exports within the next six months. Must be engaged and referred by a Regional Business Development Advisor or Export Development Executive. Less than 75 FTEs Export-ready or within 6 months of export readiness ### Regional Business Development Advisors - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/export-nova-scotia/regional-business-development-advisors - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Invest Nova Scotia's Regional Business Development Advisors provide expert advisory support to businesses across all regions of Nova Scotia seeking to export or expand into new markets. **Details.** Invest Nova Scotia maintains a network of Regional Business Development Advisors across Nova Scotia. These advisors provide industry and market expertise to help local businesses discover and develop exporting opportunities. They offer guidance on expanding reach and delivering products or services to customers worldwide. **Eligibility.** Nova Scotia business interested in exporting or expanding into new markets ### Business Counselling - Organization: ISANS - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/sign-up-to-become-an-isans-client/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Personalized one-on-one support for newcomer entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey, from exploring a business idea through start-up and growth or expansion. **Details.** ISANS Business Counsellors provide personalized, one-on-one support to newcomer entrepreneurs before launch, during start-up and throughout growth or expansion. Counselling sessions are flexible and can be held in person at ISANS, online or at the entrepreneur's place of business after start-up. Participants can make informed decisions, identify and access business resources, build professional networks, stay informed about business workshops and events, access free legal or accounting services if eligible, develop tailored action plans, and connect with other business organizations. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered ISANS client. Immigration Status: Canadian Citizen Born outside Canada, International Graduate, Permanent Resident, Temporary Foreign Worker. ### Business Acquisition Support - Organization: ISANS - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/sign-up-to-become-an-isans-client/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Guides immigrants through the process of buying or selling a business in Nova Scotia, with mentorship from industry experts and targeted training on succession planning, valuation, financing, and franchising. **Details.** ISANS Business Acquisition Support Project helps immigrants navigate buying or selling a business or creating a succession plan. Participants receive targeted training on topics such as succession planning, valuation and financing, buyer screening, franchising, closing the sale, and taking over a business. The program also includes mentorship from an industry expert or business owner who has bought or sold a business, one-on-one business counselling with ISANS counsellors, and access to listings of businesses for sale. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered ISANS client. Immigration Status: Canadian Citizen Born outside Canada, International Graduate, Permanent Resident, Pre-Arrival Approved Permanent Resident, Refugee Claimant, Temporary Foreign Worker. ### Employer Support Services - Organization: ISANS - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/diversify-your-workforce/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Assists Nova Scotia businesses in hiring, retaining and supporting international talent by connecting employers with pre-screened, job-ready newcomers and providing guidance on workplace inclusion and cultural competency. **Details.** ISANS Employer Support Services assists businesses throughout Nova Scotia in hiring, retaining and supporting international talent. The program connects employers with pre-screened, job-ready newcomers and provides guidance to enhance workplace inclusion and cultural competency. Employers can connect with a dedicated Employer Engager, learn about the value of international talent, receive qualified candidate referrals, participate in Online/Onsite Recruitment and Information Sessions (ORIS), and access the SkillsMatch online recruitment platform. Sub-programs include Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) for Employers, Intercultural Workplace Program (IWP), Employer Engagement, SkillsMatch Online Recruitment Tool, and Employer Support for Internationally Recruited Employees. **Eligibility.** Nova Scotia employers seeking to hire international talent. ### Dedicated Business Development Officer - Organization: LaunchPad PEI - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://launchpadpei.com/about-launchpad/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Each LaunchPad PEI client is assigned a dedicated Business Development Officer (BDO) who provides one-on-one guidance on doing business in Prince Edward Island, helps navigate government programs, and identifies funding opportunities based on the client's needs and growth plans. **Details.** As a LaunchPad PEI client, you will be assigned a dedicated Business Development Officer to help guide you in doing business in Prince Edward Island. Your BDO will be a guide through the various government programs available to assist your business. Once LaunchPad PEI understands your needs and your growth plans, they can identify the funding opportunities that exist to assist your business. **Eligibility.** Must be an accepted LaunchPad PEI client. ### Mentorship & Coaching - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: mailto:info@planethatch.ca - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free one-on-one mentorship and coaching sessions with Ignite's Business Growth Team, providing customized consulting services to support businesses at any stage. **Details.** Through the partnership with sister organization Ignite, Planet Hatch offers mentorship and coaching at no cost. Entrepreneurs can connect with Ignite's Business Growth Team for customized consulting services and tailored one-on-one meetings to define next steps for their business. Per the FAQ, mentorship meetings require at minimum a business idea. New business owners are advised to first attend a Business Basics session. To book a meeting, entrepreneurs should email info@planethatch.ca or call (506) 453-7150. **Eligibility.** Must have at least a business idea. New business owners are encouraged to attend Business Basics session first. ### Office Hours (RBC) - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/planet-hatch-office-hours-tickets-1984641407876?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Confidential 30-minute consultation sessions with RBC to discuss business and prospective banking needs. **Details.** Planet Hatch hosts Office Hours in partnership with RBC, offering entrepreneurs confidential 30-minute consultation sessions to discuss business needs and prospective banking requirements. ### Startup Coaching - Organization: Propel - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.propelict.com/contact-us - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Propel provides dedicated one-on-one startup coaching as a core component of its e-Accelerator programs. Experienced founder-coaches work with each company individually, providing guidance, feedback, and accountability throughout the startup journey. Coaches meet regularly with founders via Zoom to review progress and provide tailored support. **Details.** Each founder accepted into Propel's programming is matched with a dedicated Startup Coach. The coaching team consists of experienced founders who have lived the startup journey themselves. Coaches meet regularly with founders via Zoom to update progress and provide feedback. They help founders get laser-focused on the right customers and a business case to create sustainable and repeatable sales growth. The coaching relationship extends through the full duration of the program and covers customer discovery, business model refinement, revenue model development, offer crafting, pitch perfection, and go-to-market strategy. Propel's coaches are spread across Atlantic Canada and are available for consultation even before a formal application. **Eligibility.** Must be accepted into one of Propel's accelerator programs. Initial consultations available by contacting a startup coach directly. ### Springboard Network - Industry Engagement and Technology Transfer - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/member-representatives/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A network of 40+ Industry Engagement Professionals at 19 Atlantic Canadian post-secondary institutions that connects industry with academic researchers, navigates funding channels, and facilitates research commercialization and technology transfer. **Details.** The Springboard Network consists of more than 40 Industry Engagement Professionals (also known as Industry Liaison Officers) embedded across 14 universities and 5 colleges in Atlantic Canada. These professionals serve as a single point of contact for industry to access the research capabilities of the entire Atlantic Canadian post-secondary sector. Services include pairing organizations looking for R&D support with specialized researchers, navigating funding channels, facilitating technology licensing, supporting proof of concept development, and guiding researchers through the commercialization lifecycle from ideation to market. Testimonials describe the network as the 'backbone' of the Atlantic Canada tech ecosystem, providing a single point of contact that amplifies the R&D capacity of the region. The network has contributed to 957 startup spinouts and over 5,925 technology and knowledge transfers. **Eligibility.** Available to industry partners seeking research collaboration and to researchers or entrepreneurs at Springboard member institutions looking to commercialize research. The About page invites those looking for R&D projects or those wanting to transition their research into a business. ### Regional IP Counselling - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/ipadvantage/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** One-on-one IP counselling provided by dedicated Regional IP Counsellors stationed in each Atlantic province, supporting startups and SMEs with intellectual property guidance. **Details.** Springboard Atlantic employs dedicated Regional IP Counsellors across all four Atlantic provinces as part of the Atlantic IP Advantage Program (AIPA). These counsellors provide one-on-one IP guidance to startups and SMEs in their respective provinces. IP Counsellors include: Shelley Hessian for Nova Scotia (30+ years experience with SMEs, formerly at Invest Nova Scotia/Innovacorp), Libby Carew for Newfoundland & Labrador (formerly with Mitacs, bilingual English/French), and Andre Pelletier for New Brunswick (PhD in Chemical Engineering, multi-industry experience). They help startups navigate IP strategy, connect with IP service providers, and access IP Advantage and IP Assist funding programs. **Eligibility.** Available to startups and SMEs in Atlantic Canada seeking IP guidance. Tied to the Atlantic IP Advantage Program. ### Venn Market Intelligence - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: advisory - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com/en/venn-market-intelligence - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Venn Market Intelligence is a business intelligence program that provides tech and innovation companies with resources and services related to market intelligence, targeting companies with revenues under $1 million and private investments under $5 million. **Details.** The Venn Market Intelligence program enables technology-focused and innovation-driven companies to leverage resources and services related to business and market intelligence. The program is available to companies with revenues below $1 million and private investments below $5 million. It is listed under Venn Innovation's 'Start-Up Program' navigation alongside the Garage and Tech Connect, and appears as 'Information commerciale' in the French navigation. Additional details about specific deliverables and program structure were not fully available in the crawled pages. **Eligibility.** Technology and innovation-focused companies with revenues under $1 million and private investments under $5 million. --- ## Category: program (145) ### Ignition Program - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4Vfbnf3uz9KlOVE - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 10-week program for Nova Scotia post-secondary students providing training, mentorship, resources, ecosystem connections, and honorariums ($10/session) to support personal and business development. **Details.** The Ignition Program offers post-secondary students a 10-week program that gives access to training, mentorship, resources, ecosystem connections and honorariums. Participants receive an entrepreneurial skills toolbox covering goal setting, design thinking, networking, pitching, and more. The program includes training sessions by local and international entrepreneurs, connections with mentors and industry leaders, one-on-one coaching and consulting, and access to professional and entrepreneurial resources. Sessions cover topics like e-commerce, financial literacy, digital marketing, AI, intellectual property, personal branding, and how to pitch. Partner institutions include Saint Mary's University, NSCAD University, Mount Saint Vincent University, Nova Scotia Community College, University of King's College, and Atlantic School of Theology. **Eligibility.** Must be a student enrolled in a Nova Scotia-based post-secondary institution ### Access Ability Wage Subsidy Program for Participants - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aeEaj6yrAXQ15Vs - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Employment program for individuals living with self-identified disabilities in Atlantic Canada, providing job search support, coaching, and a $9/hour wage subsidy (up to $6,300) through employer placements. **Details.** For individuals living with self-identified disabilities who want to gain real employment experience, the Wage Subsidy Program provides support in finding employment with a $9/hour wage subsidy (up to $6,300). The program includes support in preparing for job searching (resume, cover letter, interviews), access to one-on-one coaching, flexible and hybrid employment opportunities, and funding for accommodations. The program is free to join and participants are paid through the employer's payroll system. **Eligibility.** Eligible to work in Canada; resident of Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador); self-identifies as living with a disability ### Innovation Sprint - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/innovation-sprint/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Innovation Sprint program offered to both students and businesses, facilitating rapid innovation and problem-solving. **Details.** Innovation Sprint is a program available to both students and businesses. The program is listed under student opportunities as well as business opportunities (with a dedicated business stream). While the detailed program page was not captured in the crawl, the program is actively listed in the Centre's navigation. ### Makers and Movers Training Series - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4IQrMLRB7RS6yxM - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Student-run workshop series at Saint Mary's University where selected student leaders ('Mavericks') earn $200 for hosting workshops, and attendees gain practical skills, insights, and Co-Curricular Record credits. **Details.** The Makers and Movers Training Series is the first-ever student-run pilot program at Saint Mary's University where students step into the spotlight, develop hands-on skills, and empower peers. Selected Mavericks create and lead workshops on their areas of expertise (entrepreneurship, arts, innovation). Attendees gain practical skills, build their network, and SMU students can receive Co-Curricular Record credits. Sessions run from 4-5 PM on scheduled dates during the fall term. **Eligibility.** Mavericks: must be a current Saint Mary's University student. Attendees: SMU students primarily. ### Campus2Market - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/campus2market/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program listed across student, business, and community opportunities that connects campus innovation to market applications. **Details.** Campus2Market is a program offered by the Centre that appears across all three audience streams (students, businesses, and community). While the detailed program page was not fully captured in the crawl data, the program is actively listed in the Centre's navigation and is accessible to all three stakeholder groups. ### Experience Ventures - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/experience-ventures/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Program connecting students with businesses for experiential learning and innovation collaboration. Listed under both student and business opportunities. **Details.** Experience Ventures is offered to both students and businesses. The program connects students with business partners for experiential learning opportunities. A separate 'Experience Ventures for Business' stream is available for companies looking to engage student talent. ### Enactus Saint Mary's - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/for-students/enactus-saint-marys/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Student-led social entrepreneurship team at Saint Mary's University that competes nationally and internationally. The team recently defended their national title at the Enactus National Exposition. **Details.** Enactus Saint Mary's is a student-led social entrepreneurship organization housed at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. The team competes at national and international Enactus competitions. They recently headed to Montreal to defend their national title at the Enactus National Exposition. **Eligibility.** Must be a Saint Mary's University student ### Regional Economic Growth through Innovation - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/regional-economic-growth-through-innovation.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program helps Atlantic Canadian businesses grow, reach new markets, and stay on top of the latest technology. **Details.** This program supports business growth in Atlantic Canada with a focus on market expansion and technology adoption. It is listed under ACOA's core Programs section as a permanent offering. The page describes it as: 'Grow your business, reach new markets and stay on top of the latest technology.' REGI is part of the federal Regional Development Agencies' innovation programs. **Eligibility.** Businesses in Atlantic Canada seeking growth, market expansion, or technology adoption. ### Economic Development Initiative - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/economic-development-initiative.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Economic Development Initiative supports official language minority communities (OLMCs) in Atlantic Canada to foster local economic growth. **Details.** The Economic Development Initiative (EDI) provides support to official language minority communities (OLMCs) in Atlantic Canada to help them foster local economic growth. The page describes it as: 'Are you an official language minority community, or OLMC? We can help you support local growth.' This initiative addresses the economic development needs of French-speaking communities outside Quebec and English-speaking communities in Quebec's Atlantic-adjacent areas. **Eligibility.** Official language minority communities (OLMCs) in Atlantic Canada. ### Elevate Tourism Initiative - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/elevate-tourism-initiative.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Elevate Tourism Initiative is a focused, time-limited effort aimed at enhancing tourism offerings in Atlantic Canada. **Details.** Elevate is described as a focused, time-limited initiative designed to enhance tourism offerings in Atlantic Canada. The page describes it as: 'The Elevate Tourism Initiative (Elevate) is a focused, time-limited effort aimed at enhancing tourism offerings in Atlantic Canada.' Its time-limited nature suggests it has a defined end date, but the specific timeline is not stated on the crawled page. It is listed under ACOA's current Initiatives section, indicating it was active at the time of the page update (2026-04-01). **Eligibility.** Tourism-related businesses or organizations in Atlantic Canada. ### International Trade and Investment - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/international-trade-investment.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** ACOA provides information, financial assistance, and strategic support to Atlantic Canadian businesses looking to reach international markets. **Details.** The International Trade and Investment initiative provides a combination of three explicit support components to businesses in Atlantic Canada seeking to expand into international markets: (1) information, (2) financial assistance, and (3) strategic support. The page describes it as: 'Businesses looking to reach international markets can get information, financial assistance and strategic support.' **Eligibility.** Businesses in Atlantic Canada looking to reach international markets. ### Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/regional-artificial-intelligence-initiative.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Through the RAII, ACOA helps bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and broader marketplace consumption with support for Atlantic Canadian businesses. **Details.** The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) supports Atlantic Canadian businesses in bridging the gap between AI research and marketplace commercialization. The page describes it as: 'Through the RAII, ACOA is helping to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and broader marketplace consumption with support for Atlantic Canadian businesses.' The initiative aims to bring AI technology from research into practical business applications. **Eligibility.** Atlantic Canadian businesses working with AI technology. ### Regional Defence Investment Initiative - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/regional-defence-investment-initiative.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Through the RDII, ACOA supports Atlantic Canadian businesses and organizations to strengthen defence and security capabilities, integrate into domestic and international defence supply chains, and build industrial and innovation capacity. **Details.** The Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII) supports Atlantic Canadian businesses and organizations in the defence and security sector. The page describes three explicit goals: (1) strengthening defence and security capabilities, (2) integrating into domestic and international defence supply chains, and (3) building industrial and innovation capacity. The full description reads: 'Through the RDII, ACOA supports Atlantic Canadian businesses and organizations to strengthen defence and security capabilities, integrate into domestic and international defence supply chains, and build industrial and innovation capacity.' **Eligibility.** Atlantic Canadian businesses and organizations in the defence and security sector. ### Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative (RHII) - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/regional-homebuilding-innovation-initiative.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Provides support to pursue new approaches for building houses in Atlantic Canada, including modular homes, 3D printing, panelized construction, and net-zero and climate resilient homebuilding practices. **Details.** The Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative (RHII) provides support to pursue new approaches for building houses, including designing and upscaling modular homes, the use of 3D printing, panelized construction, as well as implementing net-zero and climate resilient homebuilding practices in Atlantic Canada. **Eligibility.** Organizations pursuing innovative homebuilding approaches in Atlantic Canada. Contact ACOA for full eligibility criteria. ### Regional Tariff Response Initiative - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/regional-tariff-response-initiative.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** ACOA works with federal, provincial, and territorial partners to respond to the unique needs of the Atlantic region affected by tariffs, working to build a strong, united Canadian economy. **Details.** The Regional Tariff Response Initiative is ACOA's response to the impact of U.S. tariffs on Atlantic Canadian businesses. The page describes it as: 'ACOA is on the ground, working closely with federal, provincial, and territorial partners to respond to the unique needs of the region, and working to build a strong, united Canadian economy.' This initiative reflects the broader Government of Canada tariff response efforts, with ACOA providing regionally tailored support. The crawled data includes a detailed Government of Canada tariff response page confirming active counter-tariff measures and support programs for affected businesses and workers. **Eligibility.** Atlantic Canadian businesses and organizations affected by U.S. tariffs. ### Tourism Growth Program - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/tourism-growth-program.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Helps Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small and medium-sized businesses, and non-profit organizations develop local tourism products and experiences in Atlantic Canada. **Details.** The Tourism Growth Program helps Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small and medium-sized businesses, and non-profit organizations develop local tourism products and experiences. The program is open to a range of organizations across Atlantic Canada engaged in tourism development. **Eligibility.** Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, SMEs, and non-profit organizations in Atlantic Canada working in tourism. Contact ACOA for full eligibility criteria. ### Atlantic Canada's Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/industrial-technological-benefits-policy.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** ACOA ensures Atlantic Canadians benefit from the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy, which requires contractors winning major defence bids to do business in Canada. **Details.** The Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy requires contractors who win major defence procurement bids to conduct business activity in Canada. ACOA's role is to ensure that Atlantic Canadian businesses and communities benefit from this federal policy through facilitation and support. The page describes it as: 'See how ACOA makes sure Atlantic Canadians benefit from this policy, which requires contractors who win major defence bids to do business in Canada.' This is a policy facilitation initiative rather than a direct funding program. **Eligibility.** Atlantic Canadian businesses positioned to benefit from defence procurement opportunities. ### Business and Professional Development Training - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/training - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free business and professional development training sessions delivered through workshops, webinars, and conferences. Topics include marketing, finance, technology, networking, and business planning, available to Black and racialized entrepreneurs and employees. **Details.** BBI's Training Department provides free business and professional development opportunities to Black and racialized entrepreneurs and employees. Throughout the year, BBI offers a lineup of training sessions delivered through programs, workshops, webinars, conferences, and more. Topics covered include marketing, finance, technology, networking, and business planning. Training sessions are open to both the general public and registered BBI clients. **Eligibility.** Open to Black and racialized entrepreneurs and employees; some sessions are open to the general public ### Atlantic Canada Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Program (BEP) - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/atlantic-canada-black-entrepreneurship-ecosystem-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A federal program delivered by BBI to strengthen and expand support for Black businesses and entrepreneurs across Atlantic Canada. The program provides access to funding (including loans), business development support, skills training, and procurement opportunities. **Details.** The Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) Ecosystem in Atlantic Canada is a federal program designed to strengthen and broaden existing support for Black businesses and entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia and expand BBI's services and programs to all Atlantic Canadian provinces. The program offers access to funding (including loans for capital investments and working capital), procurement and supply chain opportunities, entrepreneurial development training, business skills training, communication, marketing and promotion strategies, and youth entrepreneurship programming through Business Is Jammin'. **Eligibility.** Self-identify as Black or Black-led; organization must have majority ownership (>51%) by Black Canadians; be a legal resident of Canada; be minimum 18 years; must have a business plan, business registration, and recent financial statements or financial projections for start-ups ### Barrier Breakers Youth Program - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://form.jotform.com/260353895566267 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A paid employment program for youth aged 15-30 across Atlantic Canada who face barriers to employment. Includes 3 weeks of paid job-readiness training and 14 weeks of paid work placements with employers, plus wraparound supports including mental health resources, transportation stipends, and mentorship. **Details.** The Barrier Breakers Youth Program is a transformative employment initiative led by the Black Business Initiative (BBI), with funding from the Government of Canada through the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS). The program empowers youth aged 15 to 30 across Atlantic Canada who face barriers to employment due to limited work experience, systemic challenges, geographic isolation, disabilities, mental health, or other socioeconomic factors. Participants receive 3 weeks of paid job-readiness training (resume writing, computer skills, financial literacy, and more), followed by 14 weeks of paid work placements with reputable employers across the region. Wraparound supports include mental health resources, transportation stipends, mentorship, and professional development. Two cohorts run per year: Cohort 1 (Spring 2026: April 20 - August 14, 2026) and Cohort 2 (Winter 2026: August 10 - December 4, 2026). **Eligibility.** Must be between 15 and 30 years old; reside in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador; for youth who are underemployed or experiencing barriers to employment; must be legally entitled to work in Canada; Canadian citizens or permanent residents ### Business is Jammin' (BIJ) Youth Entrepreneurship - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://businessisjammin.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A province-wide charitable initiative focused on motivating Black youth through education, personal development, and entrepreneurship programming. BIJ delivers enterprise and entrepreneurship learning strategy to instill long-term business skills in young people, serving over 500 youth per year. **Details.** Business is Jammin' (BIJ) is BBI's charitable arm, a province-wide initiative that focuses on motivating Black youth and stresses the importance of education and personal development. BIJ's goals are to deliver a comprehensive enterprise and entrepreneurship learning strategy and instill business skills that will offer long-term benefits to young people. The initiative works with more than 500 young people each year and builds bridges to brighter futures and sustainable wealth creation for Black communities. **Eligibility.** Black youth in Nova Scotia ### Entrepreneurial Training Fund (ETF) - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/pages/staff - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Covers up to 90% of business management skills training costs (up to $2,000) for entrepreneurs in rural HRM. Clients pay at least 10% of the training cost. **Details.** The Entrepreneurial Training Fund (ETF) provides funding to entrepreneurs to strengthen their overall business management skills through training and counselling. CBDC Blue Water covers 90% of the cost of eligible training up to $2,000. Skills categories include marketing and communications, accounting and finance, management, human resources, and other business management skills. Eligible activities include online training courses, university courses (excluding full-time studies) with business management focus, one-on-one consultation, classroom-style courses, seminars and workshops in areas such as accounting/bookkeeping, strategic planning, cash management, marketing and promotion, business networking, public relations, tourism training, and social media training. **Eligibility.** Atlantic Canadian entrepreneurs with an identified training opportunity. Must be located in rural HRM service area. ### Training and Learning Resources - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/pages/training - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free training resources including the CBDC Learning Library for rural small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, and a self-serve video series on social media for small business covering social media platforms, branding, content strategy, and content creation. **Details.** CBDC Blue Water provides access to the CBDC Learning Library, which offers a variety of learning opportunities for clients and rural small business owners or aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, the training page features a self-serve video series titled 'Introduction to Social Media for Small Business' with four modules: The Big Four (basics of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn), Branding (logo design, visual elements, brand packages), Content Strategy (marketing goals, audience-specific messaging), and Content Creation (cellphone photography, free stock images, Canva tutorials). The CBDC Learning Library and Business Skills Training links direct to the national CBDC training platform. **Eligibility.** Available to clients and rural small business owners or aspiring entrepreneurs. ### Self Employment Benefits Program - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/pages/staff - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Program covering the fundamentals of starting and running a business, including business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management. Some eligibility conditions apply. **Details.** The Self Employment Benefits Program covers the fundamentals of starting and running a business, including business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management. Participants gain practical skills and knowledge that they can immediately apply to their ventures. Specific eligibility conditions may apply. Referenced in the CBDC navigation as a program offering alongside Consultant Advisory Services and Entrepreneurial Training Fund. **Eligibility.** Some conditions may apply to be eligible. Specific requirements not detailed on the website. ### Introduction to Social Media for Small Business - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/pages/training - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free self-serve video training series covering social media fundamentals for small businesses, including platform selection, branding, content strategy, and content creation using Canva. **Details.** A series of four self-serve training videos for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs: (1) The Big Four - basics of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn including where to create profiles based on industry/demographics; (2) Branding - sourcing logo designers, determining visual elements, and creating brand packages; (3) Content Strategy - determining marketing goals, drafting consistent messages for target audiences, and posting to the right channels; (4) Content Creation - cellphone photography tips, sourcing free stock images, and creating social media posts in Canva. **Eligibility.** Publicly available; intended for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. ### Innovator Program - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/innovator/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Idea validation program. **Details.** 9 sessions for innovative ideas. **Eligibility.** Innovation-driven idea/early stage. ### Deck2Capital - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/deck2capital/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Pitch deck program. **Details.** Strengthen investor pitch materials. **Eligibility.** Raising/preparing to raise capital. ### CEED Incubator Program - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/book-a-discovery-call/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An intensive 6-session/8-week cohort program for aspiring entrepreneurs to validate their business ideas, develop business models, and prepare for launch. Priced at $299 (subsidized by ACOA). **Details.** The CEED Incubator Program is tailored for potential founders pursuing a venture as a business owner. Over 6 sessions spanning 8 weeks, participants receive expert guidance from entrepreneurial advisors with over 20 years of experience. The program covers communicating value propositions, refining business roadmaps, developing dynamic business models, customer discovery and validation, and financial management for profitability. It includes 15 hours of interactive curriculum delivery, 3 one-hour one-on-one advisory sessions, and a 3-month Live Plan subscription. Cohorts run on Mondays or Wednesdays in the evening. Note: the website indicates the Incubator is being updated to a new 'Plan, Validate & Build Pathway.' **Eligibility.** Participants must book a qualification call with the Incubator program lead to learn about eligibility criteria before enrolling ### CEED SME Accelerator Program - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/book-a-discovery-call/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 6-session cohort program for existing business owners facing growth challenges, combining design thinking with business acceleration principles. Priced at $299 (subsidized by ACOA from $450). **Details.** The CEED SME Accelerator Program is designed for entrepreneurs with established businesses that are experiencing growth or scaling challenges. Over 6 intensive sessions of 2.5 hours each, participants are guided by entrepreneurial advisors with extensive expertise. The curriculum combines design thinking with business acceleration principles and methodologies, covering organizational foundation design, growth assumptions testing, peer-to-peer collaboration, growth strategy development, resource balancing, and customer experience. The program includes 15 hours of interactive curriculum plus 3 one-hour one-on-one advisory sessions. Sponsored by Scotiabank. **Eligibility.** Must book a qualification call with the Accelerator program lead; must have an existing business experiencing growth ### CEED Self Employment Program - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/self-employment/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 40-week program for aspiring entrepreneurs to develop the skills and knowledge needed to start their own business. Over 1,000 graduates to date. **Details.** The CEED Self Employment Program is a comprehensive 40-week training program designed for individuals who want to become their own boss and start their own business. The program combines participant commitment and hard work with CEED's expertise, resources, and dedication. It has produced over 1,000 program graduates who developed the skills and knowledge needed to launch their own ventures. **Eligibility.** Details not fully specified on website; likely requires qualification call ### CEED Beyond 9-5 Program - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://ceed.work/store - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An 8-week online cohort program for solo entrepreneurs who want to turn their side hustle into a profitable business. Priced at $99 (subsidized by ACOA). **Details.** The CEED Beyond 9-5 Program is designed for solo entrepreneurs who want to turn their passion into profit while maintaining their main commitments. The 8-week online program has a small cohort of participants meeting weekly with a CEED Senior Advisor. Topics covered include foundation assessment and entrepreneur mindset, market and customer understanding, pricing strategy and financial foundations, sales skills and customer interactions, time management, digital marketing and social media strategy, AI tools and automation, and measurement, growth and next steps. The program connects past and future cohorts to foster a community of individuals passionate about growing beyond pop-ups to full businesses. **Eligibility.** Solo entrepreneurs with a side hustle they want to grow into a business ### Leveling It Up by CEED - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://ceed.work/request_estimate/form/1 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program delivering courses, workshops, mentorship, networking, and community for diverse, intersectional, and/or underserved women entrepreneurs in Canada. Currently accepting waitlist registrations. **Details.** Through Leveling It Up, CEED is committed to delivering inclusive programming and skills development opportunities to support diverse, intersectional, and/or underserved women in Canada. The program includes courses and workshops, mentorship, networking, and community building. It is currently in a waitlist phase, accepting registrations for upcoming programming. **Eligibility.** Diverse, intersectional, and/or underserved women in Canada ### Before You Build - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/before-you-build/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Tech idea validation. **Details.** 4-week course for Leveling It Up participants. **Eligibility.** Leveling It Up participants. ### Juniorpreneur Camps - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/juniorpreneur-camp/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Five-day entrepreneurship camps for youth ages 8-14 covering teamwork, innovation, critical thinking, risk-taking, and leadership, culminating in running their own business for half a day. **Details.** CEED's Juniorpreneur Camps are engaging 5-day entrepreneurship camps for youth ages 8-14. Campers develop new skills and hone existing ones as they learn what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Activities involve teamwork, innovation, critical thinking, risk-taking, and leadership. The camp culminates with participants running their own business for half a day. **Eligibility.** Youth ages 8-14 ### CEED Launchpad - Organization: CEED - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/launchpad-new/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An early-stage innovation funnel program designed to help entrepreneurs turn innovative ideas into commercial ventures. **Details.** CEED Launchpad is described as an early innovation funnel program that helps entrepreneurs turn innovative ideas into commercial ventures. It is referenced on the CEED homepage but limited details are available from the crawled pages. ### Blueprint for Success - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/business-planning-blueprint-for-success/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An eight-week virtual business planning program designed to guide and support women through getting started in business and creating or updating their business plan. Free to participants, now offered in partnership with Immigration Workplace Education Initiative (WEI) as part of CWB's certificate training programs. **Details.** Blueprint for Success includes modules on developing your idea, market research, financial planning, marketing, operations, and more. Participants gain access to information and resources to start, launch, and grow a business; a collaborative group of women in the same business stage; one-on-one support from experienced business advisor facilitators; dedicated time for business planning; and week-to-week accountability from facilitators and peer group members. By program end, participants can develop a business vision, utilize market research tools, develop a detailed marketing plan, identify startup costs and prepare cash flow projections, develop an operations plan, and increase confidence in business management skills. Those who successfully complete the program may apply through the Recognition of Prior Learning program at FOLCD, Dalhousie University for advanced standing in the Certificate in Business Management. **Eligibility.** Women-identifying entrepreneurs in startup or growth stages. Internet and computer access required for virtual delivery. ### Advanced Management & Mentoring Program (AMMP) - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://app.simplycast.ca/?q=forms/take&i=68a4c28d932b57.06944768 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A six-month growth accelerator program for women business owners committed to increasing their business volume, markets, revenues, and profits. Now in its fourteenth year, AMMP includes peer-to-peer advisory sessions, financial analysis, strategic planning, and one-on-one support. **Details.** Over 200 participants have completed AMMP, reporting increased understanding of their business, better decision making, increased revenues, a growing workforce, and market opportunities. Participants engage in facilitated peer-to-peer advisory sessions, assess their business position in the marketplace, identify and evaluate growth opportunities, prepare detailed financial analysis reports, develop skills to scale their business model, develop innovative problem-solving techniques, incorporate all elements into a strategic growth plan, and receive ongoing one-on-one support from Nora Perry. Each cohort includes 8-10 women from non-competing businesses. The program is valued at $5,000, with financial flexibility available for those facing barriers. **Eligibility.** Focused on scaling their business; minimum $150,000 in annual revenues; 2+ years in business; demonstrated viable business model; has a business plan; has financial statements ### SPICE (Specialized Program in Cooking Entrepreneurship) - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://app.simplycast.ca/?q=forms/take&i=683f23e7d753a7.63832006 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A complimentary program for underrepresented Nova Scotian women ready to move from their kitchen tables to a fully compliant food business. SPICE provides 8 weeks of active learning and ongoing support for up to a year, covering food safety standards, business planning, and compliance. **Details.** Limited to 12 women per cohort, SPICE is offered in hybrid format with in-person sessions within HRM. Priority is given to Black Nova Scotian women, Black women of African descent, Indigenous women, and immigrant women. Participants draft a business plan including market strategy, financial projections, and operational requirements; identify resources and support organizations in the food and beverage industry; experience a working commercial kitchen; establish a registered and licensed food business; develop a hiring plan; explore additional product opportunities; register their food business with Nova Scotia Joint Stock; access food and safety resources; create a Food Safety Plan; learn to label food products according to Nova Scotia Food and Agriculture standards; and develop products for retail distribution. Successful applicants receive support for starting their business, registration, insurance, licenses, childcare, safety training, taxi fare, and commercial kitchen rental. **Eligibility.** Underrepresented women with an idea about starting a food business in Nova Scotia, or who have been selling food products without formal training or business plan, or interested in transitioning from a home kitchen to a licensed facility, or immigrant women selling cultural food unaware of Nova Scotia's provincial food regulations. Priority given to Black Nova Scotian women, Black women of African descent, Indigenous women, and immigrant women. ### RBC Alliance of Young Women Entrepreneurs (AYWE) - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://app.simplycast.ca/?q=forms/take&i=68934fcc4f9a01.86501911 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The first program of its kind in Canada, the RBC Alliance of Young Women Entrepreneurs empowers female students to reach their full potential as entrepreneurs through connection and learning. A free program open to MSVU students. **Details.** Through this free program, each student connects with other students, receives leadership coaching and business training through regular workshops, has access to one-on-one business advisory sessions, has opportunities to attend business conferences and events (some are Learning Passport eligible), and creates and executes a business plan. **Eligibility.** Open to female-identifying MSVU students ### Supplier Diversity Programs - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/supplier-diversity/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A suite of supplier diversity programs for women business owners at sustaining, growing, and high-growth stages, including introduction to supplier diversity, corporate roundtables, and the Advancing Supplier Diversity in Atlantic Canada (ASDAC) initiative with a mentorship program. **Details.** The supplier diversity offering includes multiple components: Introduction to Supplier Diversity, Corporate Roundtables, Partnering to Build Capacity: Atlantic Canada Mentorship Program (2022-2026), educational resources about what supplier diversity is, and FAQs. CWB has a dedicated staff member, Judith Richardson, leading the Advancing Supplier Diversity in Atlantic Canada (ASDAC) initiative. The program helps women-owned businesses access corporate and institutional supply chains. **Eligibility.** Women-owned businesses at sustaining, growing, or high-growth stages ### Trade Missions - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/trade-missions/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Trade missions for women business owners at sustaining and growing stages to explore international markets, including past missions to Jamaica, Miami, Boston, Florida, and Puerto Rico. **Details.** CWB organizes trade missions to help women-owned businesses explore international markets and expand beyond provincial and national borders. Past trade missions include Virtual Trade Mission to Jamaica & Miami (2020), Virtual Trade Mission to Boston (2021), Virtual Trade Mission to Jamaica and Miami (2021), Trade Mission to Florida and Jamaica (2022), and Virtual Trade Mission to Puerto Rico (October 2024). Positioned on the spectrum of services for sustaining and growing-stage businesses. **Eligibility.** Women business owners at sustaining or growing stages ready to explore international markets ### Grow Now for Female Tech Founders - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/grow-now-for-female-tech-founders-in-atlantic-canada/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program for female tech founders in Atlantic Canada at the startup, sustaining, and growing stages of business development. **Details.** Grow Now is positioned on the CWB spectrum of services for women in the startup, sustaining, and growing stages who are tech founders. The program is specifically designed for female tech founders in Atlantic Canada and includes testimonials from past participants. **Eligibility.** Female tech founders in Atlantic Canada ### Greater Heights of Growth - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/greater-heights-of-growth/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program designed for women business owners in the high-growth stage ($1M+ annual revenue) looking to continue their growth trajectory. **Details.** Greater Heights of Growth is positioned on the CWB spectrum of services as the offering for women who have annual revenue of $1M and are looking to continue their growth. The program includes sub-components such as the 'Building Value; Moving Forward' event with speakers and panelists. **Eligibility.** Women business owners with annual revenue of $1M+ looking to continue growth ### Certificate Training Programs - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/certificate-training-programs1/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Certificate training programs offered in partnership with Labour, Skills and Immigration Workplace Education, available to women at pre-startup through growing stages. Programs include business fundamentals courses and other training delivered in partnership. **Details.** CWB offers certificate training programs in partnership with the Immigration Workplace Education Initiative (WEI) and other partners. The programs are positioned on the spectrum of services for pre-startup through growing stages (excluding high-growth). These include the Business Planning Fundamentals course facilitated by external experts. The programs bridge gaps in the ecosystem through partnership-based delivery. **Eligibility.** Open to women-identifying entrepreneurs; complimentary for CWB members ### The EDGE Initiative - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/the-edge-initiative/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An entrepreneurship development initiative listed under CWB's learning programs. **Details.** The EDGE Initiative is listed in CWB's learning navigation menu as a current program offering. Specific program details were not available in the crawled pages. ### MSVU SparkZone - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/msvu-student-programs/sparkzone/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A co-ed student entrepreneurship program at MSVU for pre-startup and startup stage ventures, providing resources and support for students exploring business ideas. **Details.** SparkZone is an MSVU student program that supports pre-startup and startup stage entrepreneurs. Unlike the AYWE program which is women-focused, SparkZone is co-ed. It also includes the SparkZone Ignition Program as a component. **Eligibility.** Open to MSVU students (co-ed) ### Tech Advisor Training Program - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/techadvisors/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A training program for business advisors to build capacity in supporting technology-focused entrepreneurs, listed under CWB's learning programs. **Details.** The Tech Advisor Training Program is listed in CWB's learning navigation menu as a current program offering. It appears to focus on building advisor capacity in the technology sector. Specific program details were not available in the crawled pages. ### D.R.E.A.M Program - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/dreamprogram - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free, 5-session cohort-based ideation and discovery program in Saint John, NB designed to nurture entrepreneurial spirit. Participants solidify their business vision through discovering, researching, exploring, adapting, and managing their business ideas. **Details.** The DREAM Program (Discover, Research, Explore, Adapt, and Manage) provides a safe and collaborative environment for ideation. Topics include discovering your business vision, researching potential markets and customers, exploring solutions and opportunities, adapting your initial idea into a roadmap, and managing time, resources, and support networks. Seasonal cohort intake. **Eligibility.** Must have entrepreneurial spirit and a business idea ready to explore. Located in or near the Greater Saint John Region. ### MVP Program (Market, Value and Pitch) - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/mvpprogram - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A practical validation program in Saint John, NB pushing entrepreneurs to explore and validate their market share, customer segment, minimum viable product, and financial sustainability. Culminates in a pitch night. Sessions run every Wednesday evening. **Details.** The MVP course covers idea validation, customer development, value proposition, market research, product development, strategic communication, marketing and branding, business model canvas, finance modelling, and a pitch night. Designed for motivated entrepreneurs who have gone through the ideation stage and are ready to test their business idea. Multi-week cohort format. **Eligibility.** Must be 18+ years of age. Must have entrepreneurial spirit and a business idea ready to test. Located in or near the Greater Saint John Region. ### KPI Program (Knowledge, Process, and Impact) - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/kpi-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A youth entrepreneurship program in Saint John, NB for ages 15-29, covering finances, marketing, branding, funding, and legal aspects of running a business. Participants develop a compelling pitch and connect with mentors, industry experts, and like-minded peers. **Details.** The KPI Program provides young entrepreneurs insights on finances, marketing, branding, funding opportunities, and legal aspects. Two eligibility tracks: ages 15-18 (requiring prior IDEA Centre participation or entrepreneurial coursework) and ages 19-29 (requiring a business idea). All candidates are interviewed. Sessions run every Tuesday from 4-6pm. **Eligibility.** Must be 15-29 years old with a business idea. Ages 15-18 must have prior IDEA Centre participation or at least one entrepreneurial course. Interview required for all candidates. ### Business Plan Program - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/businessplan - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 4-session workshop in Saint John, NB guiding participants through developing investment-ready business plans, led by an experienced business plan expert, with one month of dedicated aftercare support. **Details.** This workshop provides invaluable insights, practical tools, and personalized guidance to refine entrepreneurial vision into a comprehensive, actionable business plan. Led by Kayla Johnson, an experienced business plan expert. Beyond the intensive sessions, one month of dedicated aftercare support ensures business plans are finely tuned. Sessions run every Thursday from 6-9pm. Suitable for both seasoned entrepreneurs and newcomers. **Eligibility.** Open to aspiring and existing entrepreneurs in the Greater Saint John Region. ### Business Immigrant Essentials (BIE) - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/bie - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program listed in the ConnexionWorks program menu aimed at supporting business immigrants. Specific details were not available from the crawled content as the dedicated page was not scraped. ### Basics of Bookkeeping - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/basicsofbookeeping - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program listed in the ConnexionWorks program menu focused on the basics of bookkeeping. Specific details were not available from the crawled content as the dedicated page was not scraped. ### Stella Maris Testing Solution - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/programs-services/stella-maris-testing-solution/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A unique test-bed for marine instrumentation featuring a subsea platform, dockside testing area, shoreside operations centre, and 24-hour access for technology validation in real-world harbour conditions. **Details.** COVE's Stella Maris Testing Solution is a unique test-bed for marine instrumentation. With a subsea platform, dockside testing area, shoreside operations centre, and 24-hour access, it enables companies to test and validate marine instrumentation in real-world harbour conditions at the COVE facility in Dartmouth. **Eligibility.** Companies developing marine instrumentation or sensors requiring real-world testing ### Digital Harbour - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/programs/digital-harbour/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An ecosystem of on-shore and off-shore infrastructure that collects and analyzes data from satellites, surface vessels, and below the waterline — from seabed to space. **Details.** From seabed to space, COVE is creating an ecosystem of on-shore and off-shore infrastructure that collects and analyzes data from satellites, surface vessels, and below the waterline. Digital Harbour provides a data infrastructure platform for ocean data solutions, enabling marine technology companies to access integrated multi-source ocean data for research, development, and commercialization. **Eligibility.** Marine technology and ocean data companies. Contact COVE for details. ### SmartATLANTIC - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.smartatlantic.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The SmartATLANTIC Alliance supports operational efficiency, situational awareness and safety in the marine environment, providing support for Canada's coastal and ocean operations. **Details.** The SmartATLANTIC Alliance supports operational efficiency, situational awareness and safety in the marine environment and provides an unprecedented level of support to the country's coastal and ocean operations. It is a partnership-based program that delivers marine environmental monitoring and data capabilities. ### NATO DIANA Accelerator - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/accelerator-programs/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** As an official NATO DIANA accelerator site, COVE supports companies developing dual-use technologies with access to advanced facilities, expert guidance, international defence networks, workshops, and mentoring. **Details.** As an official accelerator site for NATO's Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), COVE supports companies developing dual-use technologies with both civilian and military applications. The program provides access to advanced facilities, expert guidance, and international defence networks. Participants engage with NATO's transatlantic network, leveraging COVE's infrastructure, expertise, and strategic partnerships. Supports companies innovating in dual-use technologies, autonomous platforms, sensors, robotics and drones, and equipment design and manufacturing. Through workshops, mentoring, and collaboration, companies can scale innovation and align with defence priorities. **Eligibility.** Companies developing dual-use technologies with both civilian and military applications. NATO-aligned nations. ### Innovate UK Global Incubator Programme - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/accelerator-programs/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A six-month market expansion program for UK-based marine technology companies, providing access to COVE's infrastructure, networks, demo opportunities, and strategic guidance for entering North American markets. **Details.** COVE hosts the Innovate UK Global Incubator Programme, offering UK-based marine technology companies a six-month market expansion experience in Canada. Participants explore one of the world's most dynamic technology ecosystems, gain market insights, and accelerate international growth. The program supports companies innovating in alternative energy, aquaculture systems, autonomous vessels, ocean sensors, robotics and drones, and vessel design and manufacturing. Includes a platform at COVE's H2O Conference and a COVE Demo Day demo opportunity. Through workshops, mentoring, and hands-on collaboration, companies can scale globally and develop strategic partnerships. **Eligibility.** UK-based marine technology companies seeking to expand into the Canadian/North American market. ### Industry Challenges - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/challenges/home/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Industry challenges that drive innovation, solve problems, and foster collaboration within the marine sector through COVE's partnerships with industry leaders. **Details.** Industry challenges are a valuable tool for driving innovation, solving problems, and fostering collaboration within an industry. Through COVE's partnership with industry leaders, companies are able to participate in structured challenges that connect them with real industry problems and potential customers. ### Samqwane'jk - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.samqwanejk.com/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program connecting Indigenous ocean businesses and ocean technology companies in Atlantic Canada to share knowledge and expertise and create new sustainable solutions for regional, national and global challenges. **Details.** Samqwane'jk connects Indigenous ocean businesses and ocean technology companies in Atlantic Canada to share knowledge and expertise to create new and sustainable solutions for regional, national and global challenges in the marine sector. **Eligibility.** Indigenous ocean businesses and ocean technology companies in Atlantic Canada ### DeepSense - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://deepsense.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program delivering data-driven insights to help Canadian industry integrate and leverage new technologies, enabling companies to capture a greater share of the global ocean opportunity. **Details.** Canadian industry struggles to capture its global share of the ocean opportunity without data-driven insight to integrate and leverage new technologies. DeepSense, delivered by partners with a global perspective, addresses this gap by providing data analytics capabilities for the ocean sector. ### MORI (Modular Ocean Research Infrastructure) - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://meopar.ca/partnerships/modular-ocean-research-infrastructure-mori/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An alternative pathway to vessel-based research enabling scientists and the private sector to collaborate on advancing ocean technology through modular research infrastructure. **Details.** Modular Ocean Research Infrastructure (MORI) is an alternative pathway to sophisticated vessel-based research and an opportunity for scientists and the private sector to work together to advance ocean research and technology. It provides modular infrastructure that reduces dependency on dedicated research vessels. ### SEATAC - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://seatacsolutions.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An ocean technology applied research and development centre, affiliated with Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), that helps businesses develop prototypes and solve technical challenges using specialized equipment and expertise. **Details.** SEATAC supports the ocean technology sector through applied research and innovation services. With access to NSCC's specialized equipment, facilities and expertise, SEATAC helps businesses develop prototypes, solve technical challenges, and advance their products. It is affiliated with Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and operates as an ocean technology applied R&D centre. ### COVE Internship Program - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/learning-resources/#internship-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** COVE internships provide a talent stream for marine tech companies and introduce students and recent graduates to career opportunities in the marine sector with ongoing support, training, mentoring and networking opportunities. **Details.** COVE internships provide a talent stream for marine tech companies and introduce students and recent graduates to career opportunities in the marine sector with on-going support, training, mentoring and networking opportunities. The program bridges education and industry by placing students and graduates in marine technology companies. **Eligibility.** Students and recent graduates ### Ocean Institute - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/learning-resources/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Educational programs and free tools for those who want to learn about the ocean and its technologies, helping people find their future in the marine sector. **Details.** COVE's Ocean Institute provides educational programs and tools for those who want to learn more about the ocean and its new technologies. Free resources are available to help people find their future in the marine sector. ### Education Workshops - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/learning-resources/#workshops - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** In-person and virtual workshops providing hands-on marine exploration for school-aged children and professional development sessions for educators to bring ocean sciences into the classroom. **Details.** COVE offers a variety of in-person and virtual workshops to provide hands-on marine exploration for school-aged children and offers professional development sessions for educators to bring ocean sciences into the classroom. **Eligibility.** School-aged children and educators ### Defence Innovation Secure Hub (DISH) - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/contact/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Canada's first Defence Innovation Secure Hub under the Borealis program, providing at-sea testing capability to advance maritime security, innovation, and dual-use technology development. **Details.** COVE has been announced as Canada's first Defence Innovation Secure Hub (DISH) under the Borealis program. COVE leads a new at-sea testing capability to advance Canada's maritime security and innovation, supporting dual-use technology development. This designation positions COVE as a central node for defence innovation in the maritime domain. **Eligibility.** Companies developing defence and dual-use marine technologies ### Digital Labs - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/programs/digital-labs/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A real-time, integrated data environment connecting seabed sensors, surface assets, autonomous systems, shore-based infrastructure, satellite inputs, and other digital sources, operating as commercialization infrastructure for marine technology. **Details.** COVE's Digital Labs operates as commercialization infrastructure providing a real-time, integrated data environment that connects seabed sensors, surface assets, autonomous systems, shore-based infrastructure, satellite inputs, and other digital sources. It supports technology companies in testing and validating their marine technologies in a connected digital environment at the COVE facility. **Eligibility.** Marine technology companies requiring integrated digital testing infrastructure ### COVE Accelerators - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/accelerator-programs/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Accelerator programs that fast-track high-potential marine and dual-use technologies by connecting companies to expert mentorship, advanced facilities, and global networks. Includes the NATO DIANA Accelerator and Innovate UK Global Incubator Programme. **Details.** COVE accelerators fast-track high-potential marine and dual-use technologies by connecting companies to expert mentorship, infrastructure, and global networks. As an official accelerator site for NATO's Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), COVE supports companies developing dual-use technologies with both civilian and military applications. The program provides access to advanced facilities, expert guidance, and international defence networks to accelerate deployment and enhance readiness. Additionally, COVE hosts the Innovate UK Global Incubator Programme, offering UK-based marine technology companies a six-month market expansion experience in Canada. Canada's marine economy generates over CA$50 billion annually, and COVE positions participants to access this market alongside increased defence spending opportunities. **Eligibility.** Companies developing marine or dual-use technologies. NATO DIANA participants require citizenship in Canada or a NATO nation. Innovate UK programme targets UK-based marine technology companies. ### Verschuren Centre - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/programs/verschuren-centre/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A collaborative space in Cape Breton enabling clients to advance technology cost-effectively with support on the path to commercialization, serving as a spoke in COVE's hub-and-spoke model. **Details.** The Verschuren Centre is committed to providing a collaborative space that enables clients to advance technology cost-effectively, while having the support required on the path to commercialization. It serves as a spoke in COVE's hub-and-spoke model, extending COVE's reach to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. ### COVE Internships - Organization: COVE - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/learning-resources/#internship-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Internship program providing a talent pipeline for marine tech companies while introducing students and recent graduates to career opportunities in the marine sector with ongoing support, training, mentoring and networking. **Details.** COVE internships provide a talent stream for marine tech companies and introduce students and recent graduates to career opportunities in the marine sector with ongoing support, training, mentoring and networking opportunities. **Eligibility.** Students and recent graduates interested in the marine sector ### CDL Startup Program - Organization: Creative Destruction Lab - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://creativedestructionlab.com/program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A nine-month, objectives-based mentorship program for seed-stage, science- and technology-based companies. No fees, no equity taken. Founders attend five full-day sessions where experienced entrepreneurs and investors set measurable objectives. CDL operates across 16 global sites including Halifax. **Details.** CDL's core program features five full-day sessions every two months. Each session includes Small Group Meetings with curated Fellows and Associates and Large Room Discussions where mentors debate proposed objectives. Between sessions, ventures are assigned a Venture Manager and paired with mentors committing at least 4 hours between sessions. Operates across 23 specialized streams including AI, Quantum, Climate, Health, Space, and Energy. CDL does not directly fund startups but mentors include VCs and angel investors. Companies have generated over CAD $51B in equity value. **Eligibility.** Must be a seed-stage, science- or technology-based company with novel, defensible, and scalable technology. Should have advanced beyond concept stage. Applications are currently closed for 2025/26. ### CDL Objectives-Based Mentorship Program - Organization: Creative Destruction Lab - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://creativedestructionlab.com/application-triage/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A nine-month, objectives-based mentorship program for massively scalable, seed-stage, science- and technology-based companies. Founders work with accomplished entrepreneurs, angel investors, economists, and scientists through five full-day objective-setting sessions held every eight weeks. **Details.** CDL's core program is designed around 5 full-day objective-setting sessions where mentors work with founders to help refine the 3 most important sprint-style objectives to accomplish over the next 8-week interval en route to their next major inflection point. Each session has two major components: Small Group Meetings (SGM) consisting of 5-10 back-to-back meetings with curated CDL Fellows and Associates, and Large Room Discussions (LRD) where mentors debate objectives in a moderated peer-review format. Each venture is assigned a Venture Manager who facilitates introductions and referrals into the CDL network. Ventures are paired with mentors who dedicate at least 4 hours between sessions. The program operates across 23 specialized streams (e.g., AI, Quantum, Climate, Health, Space, Oceans, Defence, Manufacturing) at 16 global locations. CDL does not directly fund startups, but mentors who are investors often invest in ventures that demonstrate a track record of achieving their objectives. **Eligibility.** Science- or technology-based venture with novel, defensible, and scalable technology. Companies should have advanced beyond the concept stage with a developed or in-progress prototype. The most opportune time to participate is when transitioning from purely technical goals to foundational business objectives such as go-to-market strategy, product-market fit, and planning to raise capital. Ventures can apply to up to 5 CDL sites. No university affiliation required. Can participate concurrently with other programs. ### Putting AI to Work - Organization: Creative Destruction Lab - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://airtable.com/appJbP4V7oev7z9RS/pagVQQyeJs2KREaaz/form - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 12-month, cohort-based initiative to help large organizations translate artificial intelligence into measurable business impact, targeting a 20% productivity lift through cost savings, output improvements, or enhanced service quality within two years. **Details.** Putting AI to Work is developed by CDL and grounded in the research of CDL founder Ajay Agrawal, co-author of Prediction Machines and Power & Prediction. The first half focuses on AI strategy development where each business unit leader creates a focused plan to use the fewest AI applications required to hit a 20% productivity target, prioritized by the CEO based on expected ROI. The second half shifts to execution, supported by peers, vendors, and CDL advisors, focusing on reimagining decision-making processes, integrating AI into workflows, managing prediction errors, and building feedback loops. Case studies include a $1B IT VAR generating $30M additional annual revenue, a $500M regulated communications company unlocking $36M/year in new revenue, and an $850M machinery manufacturer producing $25M in annual gains through AI adoption. **Eligibility.** Ideal for innovation leaders, functional heads, technology teams, and operational managers in large organizations seeking to build or scale AI initiatives. Whether piloting a first use case or rolling out enterprise-wide automation. ### ideaDESIGN Program - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://airtable.com/shrZR9AH65YjPo8rU - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A fast-paced, structured four-day design sprint that takes participants through the design thinking process to a first proof of concept for their product, offered every three months. **Details.** ideaDESIGN is a structured four-day sprint that introduces participants to the design thinking process, rapid prototyping, and entrepreneurship. Participants explore the potential of their idea through various exercises and can apply for 6 months of access to ideaHUB's coworking space, labs, and 3D printers. The program gives hands-on experience with basic design thinking concepts and considers entrepreneurship as a pathway. After completing ideaDESIGN, participants are introduced to further opportunities in the deep tech entrepreneurship ecosystem. Open to Dalhousie students and the Halifax community at large. Dinner is provided and a $150 gift certificate is awarded to participants who complete all four sessions. **Eligibility.** Curious, eager to learn, and interested in the concept of design thinking. Have a product idea or design problem they want to solve. Interested in innovation and entrepreneurship as a potential pathway. ### ideaBUILD Program - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://bit.ly/4b52rej - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 10-month rigorous program that offers founders a $10,000 grant towards prototyping materials, a 12-week bootcamp, and deep-tech industry advisers to validate and build a product's first operational prototype. **Details.** ideaBUILD is a 10-month program for early-stage deep tech and physical product startups. It includes a $10,000 grant per company for prototyping materials, a 12-week bootcamp with 2-hour weekly sessions on Fridays, support from a Venture Manager, Engineering Lead, and Academic Director, an Engineering Feasibility Report, 8 hours of engineering support from a partner firm, 2 Prototype Days for feedback, access to hot desks in the HUB, and access to mechanical, electrical, and additive manufacturing labs. The program is open to all founders in Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada; Dalhousie affiliation is not required. Bootcamp sessions are hybrid, offered typically Fridays 10am-12pm. **Eligibility.** Between 1-4 founding team members. Have a well-formulated product idea to build an operational prototype. Ready to dedicate time towards achieving operational prototype stage. Have completed initial customer discovery and/or market validation. Seeking engineering support to refine idea or prototype. Founders building physical products that are engineering-based or require engineering support. ### ideaBRIDGE Residency Program - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://airtable.com/appDcfRgcbhZtxZBI/pag4kDUYgEKOArk0R/form - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A competitive residency of up to two years providing dedicated workspace, prototyping labs, venture coaching, and engineering support for deep tech ventures bridging from prototype to commercialization. **Details.** ideaBRIDGE Residency helps founders refine and launch physical product-based companies and transition to a stage where they can stand on their own. Residents receive a dedicated workstation for teams of up to four, including desk space, work benches, and access to mechanical, electrical, and additive manufacturing labs. They receive design and engineering advice from the Lead Engineer and Academic Director, hands-on support from Electrical Engineering Co-op Students, and are paired with a Venture Coach for venture strategy, risk identification, customer pilot preparation, fundraising, manufacturing planning, and product launch. The program welcomes diverse founders and does not require a Dalhousie University connection. **Eligibility.** Between 1-4 employees. Has an operational prototype and some leads for first customer pilot. Has 6-12 months of runway. Legally incorporated. In need of space and specialized facilities to bring prototype to customer pilot and beyond. Seeking more industry and faculty advisors to refine product. Expanding team and positioning for funding. ### AI Digital Adoption Program - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/ai-digital-adoption-program-2/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Program helping Nova Scotia SMEs move from learning about AI to implementing it, combining AI leadership training (via NSCC), expert consulting, and an AI Adoption Grant of up to $8,500 covering 75% of implementation costs. **Details.** The AI Digital Adoption Program (AI DAP) has four steps: (1) Two senior leaders complete AI Leadership Training delivered by NSCC (approx. 15 hours, asynchronous). (2) After training, the business applies for an AI Adoption Grant covering up to 75% of costs, max $8,500+HST. (3) AI Consultants help assess business needs and define use cases. (4) A Delivery Partner implements AI solutions and trains staff. The program is delivered in partnership with the Province of Nova Scotia and ACOA. Applications are currently closed. **Eligibility.** Must be registered and operating in Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia-based, have a minimum of 5 employees, have been in active operation for at least 2 years, and able to nominate executive-level participants for training. ### Digital Discovery Camp - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/digital-discovery-camp/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Summer and March break tech camps for youth ages 9-12 across Nova Scotia, in partnership with the Discovery Centre, offering hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, video game development, and hardware. **Details.** Digital Discovery Camp brings interactive learning together with the tech sector for youth. Camps run during summer and March break at locations across Nova Scotia including Halifax, New Glasgow, Spryfield, Sydney (Cape Breton), Bridgewater, and Yarmouth. Halifax camps are priced at $260-$295 (member/non-member); camps in other communities are free. Camps run 4-5 days and include tech topics like video game development, coding, robotics, and hardware. Campers connect with professional mentors in the tech sector. Funded by ACOA with REDspace as sponsor. **Eligibility.** Youth ages 9-12. Halifax camps: open registration with member discount. Community camps (New Glasgow, Spryfield, Sydney, Bridgewater, Yarmouth): free, application-based. ### Next Level Skills Programs - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/next-level-skills-programs/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Training programs for DNS member organizations supported by Nova Scotia's Workplace Innovation and Productivity Skills Incentive (WIPSI), focused on improving productivity, profitability, innovation, and workplace diversity. **Details.** Since 2015, Digital Nova Scotia has offered member training opportunities through WIPSI funding. Programs focus on improving productivity, profitability, innovation, technology adoption, and inter-provincial/international competitiveness while fostering workplace diversity. Available exclusively to DNS organizational members. **Eligibility.** Must be a Digital Nova Scotia organizational member ### Trade Missions - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/trade-missions/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** International trade missions led by Digital Nova Scotia to help Atlantic Canada's tech and digital businesses make global connections and expand into international markets. **Details.** Digital Nova Scotia leads international trade missions helping Atlantic Canada's tech and digital businesses make meaningful global connections. The program supports companies in expanding their international market presence. **Eligibility.** Tech and digital businesses in Atlantic Canada ### LevelSec: Advancing Cyber Leaders - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/levelsec-advancing-cyber-leaders/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Advanced cybersecurity training program for mid-career and senior professionals, developed with the University of Waterloo. Offers CISSP certification training, cybersecurity governance and risk management, and AI and IT systems security courses. **Details.** LevelSec addresses Canada's shortage of mid-career and senior cybersecurity professionals. Developed in partnership with the University of Waterloo (WatSPEED), the program offers three courses: (1) ISC2 Official CISSP Certification Training for cybersecurity professionals with 5+ years experience, (2) Cybersecurity Governance & Risk Management, an 8-week instructor-led program covering NIST CSF, ISO/IEC 27001, CMMI, risk communication, with a real-world capstone, and (3) AI & IT Systems Security focusing on securing AI systems using ISO/IEC 42001 and ISO/IEC 27001. Funded by the National Cybersecurity Consortium and Nova Scotia's Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration. Scholarship seats available for eligible Nova Scotian participants. **Eligibility.** Mid-career and senior cybersecurity professionals. CISSP training requires 5+ years of cybersecurity experience. ### Skills For Hire Atlantic - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: http://www.skillsforhire.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Digital skills and career-building training program designed to fill the need for qualified entry-level talent in Atlantic Canada's tech sector, focusing on data analytics and cybersecurity. Funded by the Government of Canada. **Details.** Skills For Hire Atlantic is a partnership between Digital Nova Scotia and Bluedrop ISM, funded by the Government of Canada's Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program. The program targets individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or looking to enhance career prospects, building foundational knowledge in data analytics and cybersecurity. Over three years, the program aims to train 1,800 individuals for in-demand entry-level positions in the Atlantic tech ecosystem. **Eligibility.** Individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or looking to enhance career prospects. ### Grow With Cleantech - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/grow-with-cleantech/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program listed among Digital Nova Scotia's active programs, focused on the cleantech sector. **Details.** Grow With Cleantech is listed on Digital Nova Scotia's programs page. No detailed program page was available in the crawl data to provide further specifics. ### Google Learning Program for Businesses - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/google-learning-program/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A Google-branded learning program for businesses listed among Digital Nova Scotia's active programs. **Details.** The Google Learning Program for Businesses is listed on Digital Nova Scotia's programs page. No detailed program page was available in the crawl data to provide further specifics. ### Creating an Inclusive Culture - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/cic/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A diversity, equity, and inclusion program listed among Digital Nova Scotia's active programs. **Details.** Creating an Inclusive Culture is listed on Digital Nova Scotia's programs page. No detailed program page was available in the crawl data to provide further specifics. ### AI for Export Bootcamp - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://wkf.ms/3Lyt8iR - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Six-week microcredential program helping Atlantic Canadian SMEs apply AI tools to export workflows including market research, lead generation, localization, and business development. Includes up to $2,500 in AI tool reimbursement. **Details.** The AI for Export Bootcamp runs for 6 weeks (April 27 - June 12, 2026) with 8-10 hours per week of virtual, online coursework with mandatory live sessions. Topics covered across six modules: AI foundations for export, market discovery and competitive intelligence, lead prospecting and qualification, global outreach and localization, sales and marketing content, and AI integration roadmap with capstone. Participants completing the program receive a Microcredential from St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) under the Nova Scotia Microcredential Framework. Graduates are eligible for up to $2,500 reimbursement for AI tool subscriptions used during the program. **Eligibility.** Must be registered and operating in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, or Prince Edward Island. Minimum 5 employees, at least 2 years in active operation, able to nominate executive-level participants, currently exporting or launching within 12 months. ### Digital Skills for Women+ - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/digital-skills-for-women/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free cohort-based learning program designed to help women+ without tech industry experience learn about industry topics, the ecosystem, and career opportunities, building confidence and positioning participants to explore tech careers. **Details.** Digital Skills for Women+ is a free learning program created by women who have experienced barriers in tech. The cohort-based program helps women+ without tech experience learn industry-related topics, understand the ecosystem, and explore career opportunities. The purpose is to build confidence, learn industry language, and leave better positioned to explore and enter a career in tech. **Eligibility.** Women+ without experience in the tech industry ### Forestry Digital Adoption Program - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/forestry-digital-adoption-program/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A digital adoption program in partnership with FORSEC designed to help eligible forestry businesses build capacity by improving their online visibility and accelerating their digital presence. **Details.** In partnership with FORSEC, the Forestry Digital Adoption Program is designed to help eligible forestry businesses build capacity by improving their online visibility and accelerating their digital presence. **Eligibility.** Eligible forestry businesses ### FBA Pitch Assistance Program - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.ca/events-training - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The FBA Pitch Assistance Program partners with major retailers (Atlantic Superstore, Sobeys, IGA, Costco) to offer FBA members exclusive opportunities to pitch their products for retail listing, with end-to-end support from retail readiness evaluation through the pitch process and post-program follow-up. **Details.** Food & Beverage Atlantic partners with major retail chains to create structured pitch opportunities for Atlantic Canadian food and beverage producers. The program provides end-to-end support including evaluating retail readiness, guiding participants through the pitch process, and providing post-program follow-up to help ensure success. Spring 2026 retail partners include IGA (March 23, virtual, for Quebec and New Brunswick stores), Atlantic Superstore (April 9, by invite), Sobeys (April 14, by appointment), and Costco (May 11-14, by appointment). Each pitch session is typically a one-day event. Free information sessions precede the pitch events to help companies understand food safety, labeling, distribution, and marketing requirements. A downloadable guide, 'How to Pitch to Canada's Top Retailers,' is also available. FBA's Director of Operations, Ryan Gallant, leads the information sessions. **Eligibility.** Must be a Food & Beverage Atlantic member. Must be an Atlantic Canadian food and beverage producer with market-ready products. ### Masterclass Sales & Marketing: Winning in Other Canadian & Export Markets - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.member365.ca/public/event/details/b70ad9e3df62778056db7041484d7936dd82703c/1 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An interactive multi-week training program designed to help Atlantic Canadian food and beverage companies strengthen their sales strategy and expand into markets across Canada and beyond, with guidance from experienced industry experts. **Details.** This masterclass is designed to help Atlantic Canadian food and beverage companies strengthen their sales strategy and successfully expand into markets across Canada and beyond. Through this interactive program, participants work directly on their business strategy with guidance from experienced industry experts. The program runs over approximately five weeks from May 5 to June 9, 2026. ### Startups 101 - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/startups-101 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An interactive virtual workshop for aspiring entrepreneurs to explore startup ideas, understand the tech landscape, and learn what it takes to build a business from scratch. It is the entry point in the Genesis founder journey. **Details.** Startups 101 is the first step in the Genesis founder journey. This hands-on, interactive virtual workshop helps participants shape their idea and understand what it takes to launch a tech startup. It is designed for people who are just getting started and still figuring out their direction. The workshop covers startup ideas, the tech landscape, and the fundamentals of building a business from scratch. The programs page describes it as perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs who are still figuring it out. It is listed as a current, active program on the Genesis website with a direct sign-up link. **Eligibility.** Open to aspiring entrepreneurs exploring tech startup ideas. No specific prerequisites stated on crawled pages. ### Evolve - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/evolve - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An eight-week sprint for early-stage founders to test, refine, and validate their startup idea by talking to real customers and building a business ready for the next stage. **Details.** Evolve is an eight-week sprint designed for early-stage founders. The program helps participants shape their idea, talk to real customers, and build a business that is ready for what comes next. It is described as focused, practical, and designed to help founders make real progress. Evolve is positioned as the step after initial exploration (Startups 101) in the Genesis founder journey, preparing founders for membership and scaling support. The programs page uses the tagline 'Test, refine, and get ready to grow.' **Eligibility.** For early-stage founders ready to test and refine their startup idea. Specific application requirements not detailed in crawled pages. The dedicated Evolve page was not fully scraped. ### Membership - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://outlook.office.com/book/bookingsgenesisprograms@MUNL.onmicrosoft.com/s/6IOo3QaNj0CiPOnR2foQoQ2?ismsaljsauthenabled - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An open, flexible membership program providing expert coaching from seasoned advisors, peer community, coworking workspace at the Emera Innovation Exchange, access to the AI Garage, a deep network of founders/experts/funders, consultant access (select costs covered), and exclusive events for tech founders in Newfoundland and Labrador. Genesis takes no equity, royalties, or revenue share. **Details.** Genesis Membership is designed to support the full ecosystem of tech founders and startups in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is open, ambitious, and designed to meet founders where they are on their startup journey. Members receive: full access to coworking space at the Emera Innovation Exchange on Signal Hill; regular meetings with Genesis startup coaches (seasoned advisors who know what it takes to build, scale, and win); a founder community of driven entrepreneurs in the province; a deep network of founders, experts, funders, and more, with Genesis covering the cost of working with select consultants who can move the needle; hands-on AI Garage access for R&D, product development, or operational transformation; and invites to exclusive founder-only sessions, guest talks, and investor meetups. Membership is not stage-dependent -- it is about substance. Founders must demonstrate drive, creativity, and resilience, and be solving a real problem worth solving. Genesis takes no equity, royalties, or revenue share from members. The membership page features a testimonial from Scott Stevenson, Co-Founder and CEO of Spellbook, who states the company 'simply wouldn't exist without Genesis' and now services nearly 4,000 law firms in over 50 countries with over 110 employees. **Eligibility.** For founders building something meaningful. Must demonstrate drive, creativity, and resilience. Must be solving a real problem that is worth solving. Not stage-dependent -- about substance. ### AI Garage - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/ai-garage - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A dedicated in-house AI engineering team that builds predictive tools, smarter workflows, and scalable AI-enabled features for eligible Genesis founders and alumni at no cost. The team includes a project manager, AI tech lead, multiple AI project engineers, and interns. **Details.** The Genesis AI Garage provides practical AI expertise to startups. A dedicated team of AI engineers and recent AI graduates works side-by-side with founders to experiment, prototype, and build AI-enabled solutions that strengthen products and accelerate development. The AI Garage builds predictive tools, smarter workflows, and scalable features tailored to individual startups. The service is available at no cost for eligible Genesis founders and alumni. The AI Garage is located on the second floor of The Dock at 495 Water Street, where it connects recent AI graduates with Genesis founders and alumni to solve real business challenges. The team listed on the about page includes: Doug Kennedy (Project Manager), Hossein Salimian (AI Tech Lead), Arash Sadeghi Amjadi (AI Project Engineer, Team Lead), and multiple additional AI Project Engineers and interns. The AI Garage is also listed as a benefit of Genesis Membership. The programs page describes it under Internal Programs. **Eligibility.** Must be an eligible Genesis founder or alumnus. Also available as a benefit to active Genesis members. ### Startup Visa - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/startup-visa - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program supporting international founders through Canada's Startup Visa pathway. Listed as an active program on the Genesis website but the dedicated page was not crawled, so detailed information is unavailable. **Details.** The Startup Visa program is listed in the Genesis Centre navigation menu, footer, and program listings. It is part of Canada's Startup Visa Program, which allows international entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada by partnering with designated organizations. The dedicated page (genesiscentre.ca/startup-visa) was not crawled, so detailed program specifics, eligibility requirements, and application processes are not available from the crawled data. The program is consistently listed alongside Startups 101, Evolve, Membership, and AI Garage in the site footer and navigation. **Eligibility.** Details not available from crawled pages. Likely follows Canada's Startup Visa Program requirements which require partnership with a designated organization. ### Memberships & Residency - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/ignite-residency/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** IGNITE Atlantic's membership and residency program provides entrepreneurs and founders at every stage of business with tailored resources, mentorship, space, and opportunities to grow their business. The program is designed to surround entrepreneurs with support to help them develop a startup or idea into a thriving business. **Details.** IGNITE Atlantic offers intentional programs to surround entrepreneurs and founders at every stage of business with tailored resources, mentorship, and space to grow their startup or idea into a thriving business. Members join a community of innovators and gain access to exclusive resources, mentorship, space, and opportunities to grow their business. The program is available across IGNITE's three locations in New Glasgow, Sydney, and Yarmouth. ### Youth Camps (Game Jam Next) - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: program - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/upcoming-events/#youthcamp - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** IGNITE Atlantic offers technology-focused youth camps, including Game Jam Next events, where youth ages 12-17 create video or board games with expert support and guidance. Events are held across all three IGNITE locations. **Details.** IGNITE Atlantic runs youth technology camps including the Game Jam Next events, a game design challenge for youth ages 12-17. During these events, participants create video games or physical board games from scratch in a single day, with technical support and guidance from IGNITE staff. Laptops are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those who cannot bring their own (contact brittany@igniteatlantic.com for Sydney or madison@igniteatlantic.com for New Glasgow/Yarmouth to reserve). Physical game creation supplies are provided. Lunch is included. Finished games can be uploaded to the Global Game Jam Next platform for global showcase. Events are held across IGNITE's locations in Sydney (Cape Breton), New Glasgow, and Yarmouth. **Eligibility.** Youth ages 12-17. Registration via Eventbrite required. ### Industry Innovation - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/industry-work/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** IGNITE Atlantic works with traditional industries to facilitate collaboration and inspire the use of innovation and sustainability to solve real-world problems, including sustainability initiatives like Marine Electrification and environmental data mapping. **Details.** IGNITE Atlantic's Industry Innovation program works with traditional industries to facilitate collaboration and inspire the use of innovation and sustainability to solve real-world problems. Specific initiatives mentioned include Marine Electrification and environmental data mapping. Details about the scope, eligibility, and application process for this program are not available from the crawled pages. ### Invest Nova Scotia Accelerate - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/invest-nova-scotia-accelerate - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Invest Nova Scotia Accelerate helps Nova Scotia technology companies become investment-ready through cohort-based acceleration support. **Details.** Invest Nova Scotia Accelerate is a cohort-based acceleration program that helps Nova Scotia technology companies get investment-ready. The program runs in rounds, with the next round launching June 17, 2026. Twelve start-ups were selected for the first cohort of the 2026-2027 cycle in March 2026. The program targets start-ups in sectors including agri-food and beverage, clean technology, life sciences, ocean technology, and technology. **Eligibility.** Nova Scotia technology company seeking to become investment-ready ### GreenShoots - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/greenshoots - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** GreenShoots supports early-stage technology companies in agriculture, agrifood, bioeconomy, clean technology, and related sectors. **Details.** GreenShoots is a joint program of Invest Nova Scotia and Greenspring Bioinnovation Hub dedicated to finding and supporting early-stage technology companies in the agriculture, agrifood, bioeconomy, clean technology, and related sectors. The program is currently closed for submissions. **Eligibility.** Early-stage technology company in agriculture, agrifood, bioeconomy, or clean technology ### Export Development Program - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/export-development-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Export Development Program supports Nova Scotia businesses to increase sales outside the province and improve competitiveness. **Details.** The Export Development Program is administered by Invest Nova Scotia and supports businesses looking to increase sales outside of Nova Scotia and improve their competitive position. It serves small, medium, and large businesses across multiple high-growth sectors. The program covers export, new markets, sales, trade, and trade missions. **Eligibility.** Nova Scotia business seeking to export or increase out-of-province sales ### Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://www.tapatlantic.com/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free program offered with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce that helps Nova Scotia companies expand into international markets through in-person training, virtual mentoring sessions, access to industry experts, and personalized export strategy development. **Details.** TAP content is delivered in person over 3 days in Halifax with supplementary virtual mentoring sessions. Participants enjoy access to top industry experts, coaching to build a personalized export strategy, and a wide range of resources, tools, and training. Topics include strategic planning, export advisory resources, navigating tariffs and trade agreements, sales and KPIs, legal and tax implications, international finance, supply chain management, and building capacity and marketing. More than 71% of participants are now actively exporting. Businesses saw a 44% increase in export sales two years after participation. **Eligibility.** Companies must generate more than $500K in annual gross revenue. Not currently exporting but have taken exploratory steps, or already exporting and wish to increase market share, or motivated to expand to new markets. Must have a product or service with defined competitive advantage. Two years of financial records. Good corporate social responsibility record. Must commit two senior executives to attend in-person training. More than $500K annual gross revenue Two years of financial records Two senior executives must attend ### Launch Export Atlantic Incubator - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/launch-export-atlantic-incubator - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Launch Export Atlantic Incubator helps Atlantic Canadian businesses become export ready, supported by Invest Nova Scotia, the Government of Canada, and the four Atlantic Provinces. **Details.** Launch Export Atlantic Incubator is a collaborative program of Invest Nova Scotia, the Government of Canada, and the four Atlantic Provinces through the Atlantic Trade, Investment, and Growth Agreement. It helps Atlantic Canadian businesses become export ready. The program targets small, medium, and large businesses across multiple sectors. Currently closed for submissions. **Eligibility.** Atlantic Canadian business seeking to become export ready ### Market Entry Development Program (MEDP) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://medp-pdem.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MEDP-Application-EN-2025-1.pdf - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** MEDP helps Atlantic Canadian businesses enter European or Indo-Pacific markets by providing expert guidance, strategic insights, and access to key industry connections through two packages: Essentials ($1,250 company contribution) and Comprehensive ($2,500 company contribution). **Details.** MEDP is made possible by funding from the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provinces, with support from the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce. Participants receive a customized market entry strategy. The Essentials Package ($13,000 value, $1,250 company contribution) provides expert feedback, targeted advice, and market introductions. The Comprehensive Package ($26,000 value, $2,500 company contribution) provides full market research, customized entry strategy, and introductions to key contacts. **Eligibility.** Must have a product or service with viable international market potential. Must be committed to executing an export-focused growth strategy. Must demonstrate financial and operational capacity to expand into new markets. ### AscendBio - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/ascendbio - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** AscendBio enables companies in the industrial biotech and agritech sectors to scale up their technologies and business operations in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. **Details.** AscendBio is a joint program of Invest Nova Scotia and the Verschuren Centre located in Cape Breton. It enables companies in the industrial biotech and agritech sectors to scale up their technologies and business operations without leaving Canada. The program covers acceleration, incubation, export readiness, and start-up support. **Eligibility.** Company in industrial biotech or agritech sector ### FITTskills Courses - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/education-training-and-workshops/fittskills-courses - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** FITTskills courses teach businesses how to assess export readiness and determine corporate strategic needs for international trade. **Details.** FITTskills is a series of courses offered through Invest Nova Scotia and the Atlantic Trade and Investment Strategy (ATIGA). The courses cover feasibility of international trade, international market entry strategies, global value chain, products and services for a global market, international trade finance, and international sales and marketing. Businesses with more knowledge before entering a market are more successful. ### Market Exploration Program Mexico - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/market-exploration-program-mexico - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Market Exploration Program Mexico helps Atlantic Canadian companies explore and enter the Mexican market, with a current focus on digital health. **Details.** The Market Exploration Program (MEP) Mexico supports Atlantic Canadian companies in exploring and entering the Mexican market. The 2025-2026 cycle focuses on digital health, with Phase 1 selecting thirteen companies and Phase 2 advancing five companies for in-market engagement in Mexico City. Phase 2 activities include curated business development meetings, regulatory and procurement pathway validation, and market strategy refinement. The program is supported by the Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth Strategy, a partnership between the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic provincial governments. **Eligibility.** Atlantic Canadian company with scalable solutions aligned with the target market sector ### Business Training Workshops - Organization: ISANS - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/sign-up-to-become-an-isans-client/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Weekly workshops and information sessions to help immigrant entrepreneurs understand local business culture and develop the skills to start, grow and manage a successful business in Nova Scotia. **Details.** ISANS offers business workshops and information sessions delivered weekly, either in person at ISANS or online. Sessions range from one-time sessions to multi-week courses led by ISANS Business Trainers or expert guest speakers from the community. Topics include how to start a business in Nova Scotia, business planning basics, government services, regulations, licenses and permits, financing options and available grants, strategies for business growth, and local business culture. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered ISANS client. Immigration Status: Canadian Citizen Born outside Canada, International Graduate, Permanent Resident, Temporary Foreign Worker. ### Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Network (IWEN) - Organization: ISANS - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/sign-up-to-become-an-isans-client/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program supporting immigrant women entrepreneurs with confidence-building, practical insights, training, and exposure to experienced trainers and guest speakers. **Details.** The Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Network (IWEN) is an ISANS Business Development program designed specifically for immigrant women pursuing entrepreneurial and professional goals. The program provides guidance, practical insights, and exposure to experienced trainers and guest speakers, helping participants develop confidence and clarity to apply learnings in real-world situations. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered ISANS client. Designed for immigrant women. ### Start-up Visa Program Incubation - Organization: LaunchPad PEI - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://launchpadpei.com/contact-simple/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A business incubation program for foreign entrepreneurs under Canada's Start-up Visa Program. As a designated business incubator, LaunchPad PEI evaluates applications and provides a letter of support enabling applicants to pursue permanent residency in Canada while establishing their business in Prince Edward Island. LaunchPad PEI does not take equity and does not charge an application fee. **Details.** LaunchPad PEI is a designated business incubator in Canada's Start-up Visa Program, providing an anchor for foreign businesses to immigrate and grow in Prince Edward Island. Unlike other incubators, LaunchPad PEI does not take equity in client companies. The homepage prominently features the Startup Visa Program pathway. Foreign entrepreneurs who are accepted receive a letter of support from the incubator, which they use to apply to IRCC for permanent residency. Upon acceptance, clients are provided with workspace, a dedicated Business Development Officer, access to Innovation PEI rebate programs, and connections to the local partner network. **Eligibility.** Foreign entrepreneurs with a business that is scalable, sustainable, and has global market potential. Must be willing to relocate to PEI. Business must be in a target technology sector. ### PEI Startup Incubation - Organization: LaunchPad PEI - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://launchpadpei.com/contact-simple/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** LaunchPad PEI supports PEI-based startups with professional office space, a dedicated business development officer, access to programs supporting all stages of business development, and connections to funding, research, and trade partners. Portfolio companies include PayTic (fintech, raised C$2.95M) and Tracktile (smart manufacturing software, raised $575K pre-seed). **Details.** LaunchPad PEI works with startups in Prince Edward Island, providing support services in a professional working environment. Since 2002, the incubator has been assisting local startups. Members of the LaunchPad PEI community get access to professional and secure office space, a dedicated one-on-one business development officer, programs that support all stages of business development, access to Innovation PEI rebate programs (marketing, capital expenditures, payroll), networking with local businesses and investment opportunities through the Chambers of Commerce, links to UPEI and Holland College for student recruitment or research collaboration, and connection to government entities such as ACOA and NRC-IRAP for R&D funding or scale-up support. Recent portfolio company successes include PayTic (Charlottetown-based fintech, raised C$2.95M led by Build Ventures with participation from Island Capital Partners, Concrete Ventures and Outlierz Ventures) and Tracktile (smart manufacturing software, raised $575K pre-seed). **Eligibility.** Must be a technology company based in Prince Edward Island. ### Start-up Visa Program - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://planethatch.com/start-up-visa - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Program for immigrant entrepreneurs to launch businesses in Canada through Planet Hatch's designated incubator status, combining an expedited visa process with six months of business acceleration. Currently not accepting applications. **Details.** The Start-up Visa Program targets talented immigrant entrepreneurs wanting to launch innovative businesses in Canada while gaining permanent residency for up to five co-founders and their families. Planet Hatch's program places entrepreneurs in Fredericton and provides six months of business acceleration inside the incubation centre. The website explicitly states: 'PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT WE ARE NOT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS AT THIS TIME.' **Eligibility.** Must be an immigrant entrepreneur with an innovative business concept. Up to five co-founders and their families can be included. ### MERGE Program - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://planethatch.com/merge - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Program connecting startups with municipalities in New Brunswick's Capital Region to address community challenges through funded projects (up to $25,000 per RFP). **Details.** The MERGE Program aims to intertwine community well-being with business prosperity, fostering resilient local economies through targeted investments in community infrastructure, education, and empowerment. Municipalities submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs) identifying community challenges, and startups respond to Request for Proposals (RFPs) to deliver solutions. Completed projects in 2025 included initiatives for Grand Lake, Hanwell, Central York, Arcadia, and the Capital Region Service Commission covering areas such as transportation, land identification, tourism, and water access. Each RFP has a budget of up to $25,000. New RFPs were expected on March 25, 2026. A MERGE Demo Day celebrates the successful completion of each cohort, showcasing how startups partnered with municipalities to deliver practical solutions to community challenges. **Eligibility.** For startups: must be able to deliver solutions to municipality challenges. For municipalities: submit Expression of Interest identifying community projects. ### Export Accelerator - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://news.planethatch.com/export-accelerator - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 12-week acceleration program that helps growth-stage companies navigate international business complexities and break into new markets, with mentorship, UNB student research teams, and up to $25,000 in low-interest funding. Cost: $2,000. **Details.** The Export Accelerator is a 12-week program providing comprehensive programming, mentorship, and resources for growth-stage companies seeking to export. Participants are paired with locally established exporters for a minimum of 12 hours of one-on-one mentorship. Through a partnership with the University of New Brunswick, entrepreneurs are also paired with a team of business students who assist with research, lead generation, and export strategy development. Participants are eligible for up to $25,000 in funding via the Impact Atlantic Fund as a low-interest personal loan. 70% of Export Accelerator graduates have growing export sales. Program cost is $2,000. **Eligibility.** Growth-stage companies in New Brunswick looking to break into international markets. Program cost: $2,000. Up to $25,000 in low-interest funding available. ### Start-Up Accelerator Program - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://news.planethatch.com/spring-startup-accelerator - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 13-week cohort-based acceleration program providing entrepreneurs with training, business counselling, and up to $25,000 in startup funding to turn a great idea into a profitable business. Cost: $500. **Details.** The Start-Up Accelerator is a 13-week cohort-based program delivered through intensive classroom-style training sessions, one-on-one dedicated business counselling, and cohort group mentorship. Key topics include Value Proposition Canvas & Customer Profiling, Business Model Canvas, Market Sizing/Research & Market Intelligence, Competitive Analysis, Positioning, Financial Modeling, Validation Training, and Business Plan Development. Graduating companies leave with a comprehensive business plan. Eligible candidates must have a minimal viable product (MVP), a defined team/ownership model, and job growth capability. The program cost is $500, and participants can access up to $25,000 in funding for start-up costs. **Eligibility.** Must have a minimal viable product (MVP), a defined team/ownership model, and job growth capability. Based in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Program cost: $500. ### Entrepreneurial Venture Acceleration Program - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://news.planethatch.com/planet-hatch-startup-accelerator - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An 11-week cohort-based acceleration program in partnership with UNB Faculty of Management, providing MBA student teams, business counselling, and up to $25,000 in startup funding. Starts in September. Cost: $500. **Details.** The Entrepreneurial Venture Acceleration Program is delivered in partnership with the UNB Faculty of Management as an 11-week cohort-based program starting in September. It features intensive classroom-style training, one-on-one dedicated business counselling, cohort group mentorship, and access to MBA student teams to support market research, competitive intelligence, market/product verification, and market selection. Key topics include Market Research/Segmentation, Business Model Innovation, Customer Discovery, Competitive Analysis, Value Proposition & Positioning, Financial Modeling, Validation Training, and Business Plan Development. Program cost is $500. Participants can access up to $25,000 in funding for start-up costs. **Eligibility.** Must have a minimal viable product (MVP), a defined team/ownership model, and job growth capability. Based in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Program cost: $500. Starts in September. ### Sales Accelerator Program - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://news.planethatch.com/planet-hatch-sales-accelerator-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A virtual acceleration program helping entrepreneurs build their sales pipeline, develop closing skills, and drive revenue for scalable growth. Includes up to $25,000 in funding and a funded student intern. Cost: $2,000. **Details.** The Sales Accelerator Program is a virtual program providing comprehensive sales training from industry experts. Participants receive up to $25,000 in funding for market entry and business development activities, and access to a fully-funded post-secondary student intern. Training covers developing a defined sales process, messaging and value proposition, sales forecasting methodology, finding and acquiring opportunities, negotiation and closing techniques, and selling into new territories. Graduates leave with a fully developed sales plan and pipeline, qualified leads, closing skills, and predictable recurring revenue to scale. Cost is $2,000. **Eligibility.** Must have monthly recurring revenue, a B2B business model, business plan in place, defined team and ownership model, potential and intention to export. Based in New Brunswick. Program cost: $2,000. ### Management Accelerator Program - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://news.planethatch.com/planet-hatch-management-accelerator-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A cohort-based acceleration program helping entrepreneurs transition from startup to established business, covering hiring, HR, management strategies, and providing up to $25,000 in funding. Cost: $2,000. **Details.** The Management Accelerator Program helps entrepreneurs transition their venture from the start-up phase to a fully-fledged, established business. It is delivered through a cohort-based program with intensive bootcamp training sessions, one-on-one dedicated business counselling, and cohort group mentorship. Key topics include Hiring and Onboarding, Employee Retention, Employment Standards, Human Resource Policy & Procedures, KPIs and Goal Setting, Core Values, and How to Strategize. Eligible candidates have monthly recurring revenue, a defined team/ownership model, job growth capability, and are in the Year 1-3 startup phase. Program cost is $2,000. Participants can access up to $25,000 in funding for business growth activities. Graduates leave with a full management plan. **Eligibility.** Must have monthly recurring revenue, defined team/ownership model, job growth capability, and be in Year 1-3 startup phase. Based in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Program cost: $2,000. ### Business Immigrant Essentials Accelerator - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://news.planethatch.com/planet-hatch-business-immigrant-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 5-week acceleration program helping newcomer entrepreneurs in New Brunswick start and scale their business with essential Canadian entrepreneurship skills, full Planet Hatch Membership, and eligibility for up to $25,000 in startup funding. **Details.** The Business Immigrant Essentials (BIE) Accelerator is a specialized 5-week program for newcomers to New Brunswick who want to pursue a business idea. It involves cohort-based learning, workshops with subject matter experts, and one-on-one business counselling. Key topics include Culture, Communications, and Networking; Canadian Business Regulations; Canadian Business Standards and Best Practices; and Landing, Integrating, and Next Steps. Participants receive full Planet Hatch Membership and Benefits, tailored business counselling, expanded professional network, ongoing support for customer validation and go-to-market strategy, and eligibility for funding up to $25,000 for start-up costs. **Eligibility.** Must be newcomers to New Brunswick with a business idea, committed to 5 weeks of workshop participation. Contact programs@planethatch.com for questions. ### Ignite Programming (via Planet Hatch) - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://myignite.ca/programs - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Access to Ignite's tailored programming through Planet Hatch, offering opportunities for skills development, business growth, and entrepreneurial support across all stages of the business journey. **Details.** Planet Hatch offers access to programming through its sister organization Ignite. Through this partnership, Planet Hatch supports entrepreneurs in finding success at every part of their journey. Ignite's tailored programming offers opportunities for skills development, business growth, and entrepreneurial support. Full program details are available on Ignite's programs page. ### Programming (via Ignite) - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://myignite.ca/programs - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Access to tailored business programming through sister organization Ignite, offering opportunities for skills development, business growth, and entrepreneurial support. **Details.** Planet Hatch provides access to programming through Ignite. These programs offer opportunities for skills development, business growth, and entrepreneurial support across all stages of the business journey. Specific programs and details are available on the Ignite website. ### Vision Program (e-Accelerator Entry) - Organization: Propel - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://propelict.typeform.com/to/Cw1pJIY0 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Vision Program is the entry point to Propel's e-Accelerator. It is a short, focused experience designed to understand the founder's business idea, goals, and entrepreneurial stage. Founders may join a supportive cohort or an accelerated self-paced version depending on their stage. At the end, Propel works with each founder to determine the best path forward. **Details.** The Vision Program begins with a single application and serves as the first step in the Propel journey. Once accepted, founders are invited to participate in the program which helps Propel's team understand their business idea, goals, and current stage. Early-stage founders may join a supportive cohort to build their network alongside fellow founders, while more advanced founders may be suited for an accelerated, self-paced version. The program equips the Propel team with insights needed to help unlock the right resources, coaching, and milestones for each venture. The program focuses on validating whether there is a problem in the market people are willing to pay to solve, using lean startup methodology and customer discovery techniques. **Eligibility.** Must be based in Atlantic Canada and have a technology component in the business idea. Solo founders and founding teams are both accepted. Part-time and full-time founders are eligible. ### e-Accelerator - Vision & Validation - Organization: Propel - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://propelict.typeform.com/to/Cw1pJIY0 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Vision & Validation track of Propel's e-Accelerator helps early-stage founders validate whether there is a problem in the market that people are willing to pay to solve. Founders are guided through lean startup methodologies including customer discovery, business model validation, and experiment-based approaches to test key assumptions. **Details.** This accelerator track focuses on Problem/Solution Fit (Ideation). Founders work with a dedicated startup coach via regular Zoom meetings to refine their business model, gain insights from customer discovery, refine their revenue model, craft their offer, and perfect their pitch to customers. The program uses an applied experiment-based approach to validate key assumptions through LEAN SPRINTS. Online learning content is supplemented by fireside chats with global speakers. Program length is customized but early-stage ventures typically require at least 3 months to validate Problem/Solution fit. **Eligibility.** Technology startup founders based in Atlantic Canada. Part-time solo founders and full-time founding teams are accepted. Must complete the Vision Program first. Must be based in Atlantic Canada Must have a technology component in the business Must be at ideation or early product development stage ### Traction & Growth - Organization: Propel - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://form.typeform.com/to/Dm05UawF - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Traction & Growth is the second step of the Propel e-Accelerator journey, designed for founders who have validated their product, have over $1,000 in monthly recurring revenue, and are working on their startups full-time. The program focuses on identifying ideal customer profiles, building repeatable scalable sales processes, hiring and recruitment, dev team management, and driving traction. **Details.** Traction & Growth is where traction is born. This advanced accelerator course serves founders who have moved past validation and are focused on scaling. The program helps founders articulate and refine their ideal customer profile, shorten sales cycles, grow contract values, and build a repeatable and scalable sales process. Additional programming covers hiring and recruitment strategy, elevating the development team (including IP, privacy, and security considerations), and developing sales as a core founder skill. Founders are matched with a dedicated Startup Coach and meet regularly via Zoom. The program includes online learning, fireside chats with global speakers, mentorship councils, and community events. Companies may spend approximately twelve months in the program to develop a market acceleration plan that validates product/market fit. **Eligibility.** Founders must have a validated product, over $1,000 in monthly recurring revenue, and be working on their startup full-time. Company must be based in Atlantic Canada with a technology component. Applicants participate in a virtual interview with a startup coach. ### IP Assist (NRC IRAP) - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/ipadvantage/ip-assist/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Springboard delivers NRC IRAP's IP Assist program in Atlantic Canada, providing IP awareness training and IP strategy development for eligible IRAP client SMEs. **Details.** IP Assist is a program delivered by Springboard Atlantic on behalf of the National Research Council's Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). It provides IP services to help SMEs acquire IP training and develop IP strategies. The program has multiple levels: Springboard delivers Level 1 (IP knowledge and awareness) and Level 2 (IP strategy development). SMEs that are already NRC IRAP clients can contact their Industrial Technology Adviser (ITA) to verify eligibility. Completion of Level 2 provides businesses with an executable IP strategy aligned with their business strategy and goals. Non-IRAP clients interested in eligibility assessment are directed to contact NRC IRAP. The program is prominently featured on the Springboard homepage alongside IP Advantage. **Eligibility.** Must be an eligible NRC IRAP client company. SMEs that are not currently IRAP clients can contact NRC IRAP to assess eligibility. ### Springboard 360° Series - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: program - Status: unknown - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/our-programs/cleantech/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program series referenced in Springboard Atlantic's main navigation, linked to cleantech. Limited details are available from the crawl data as the program page was not fully captured. **Details.** The Springboard 360° Series is prominently featured on the Springboard Atlantic homepage and main navigation as one of four primary program links (alongside Our Network, IP Advantage, and IP Assist). The program links to https://springboardatlantic.ca/our-programs/cleantech/. Limited details are available from the crawl data as the specific program page was not captured. The navigation placement and homepage prominence suggest it is an active program offering. **Eligibility.** Unknown - program page was not captured in the crawl data ### Startup Canada Equal Slice Program - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/startup-canada-equal-slice-program/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program in partnership with Pizza Hut that supports underserved Canadian entrepreneurs through pitch competitions, educational webinars, and business resources, offering $100,000 annually in grants. Part of a three-year, $300,000 commitment. Now in its second year. **Details.** The Startup Canada Equal Slice Program, presented in partnership with Pizza Hut, provides access to funding, educational webinars, and business resources to help break down systemic barriers for underserved entrepreneurs. In 2026 (year two of the three-year partnership) the program includes: two pitch competitions (in-person in Toronto on June 3 and virtual on November 24), four expert-led webinars (Pitching with Purpose on May 12; Accessing Funding on July 14; Scaling Your Idea on September 1; Digital Strategies on November 17), opportunities at Startup Canada Tour stops, and updates to the Business Owner's Toolbox. The inaugural 2025 program received 500+ applications from 150+ cities, with 56% female founders, 18% immigrant entrepreneurs, and 62% Black and other racialized entrepreneurs. Ten winners each received $10,000 in 2025 ($100,000 total), with five selected from an in-person competition at Google headquarters in Toronto and five from a virtual national competition. Winners included companies like DOUBL, elerGreen, Rude Mama Hot Sauce, Canadian Handywoman, My Dorm Store, Take Care Together, Roncy Packs, Whipdd, Yekola, and 7 Summits Snacks. **Eligibility.** Open to underserved and equity-deserving Canadian entrepreneurs. Applications open from March 9, 2026; spots are limited and applications close when spots are filled. ### Startup Women - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/startup-women-events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A year-long program offering women-identifying entrepreneurs topic-focused webinars, industry advisory circles (roundtables), and interactive 1:1 meetings with Startup Women leaders. Presented in partnership with CIBC Business Banking. The program also includes the Startup Women Empowerment Fund with community events in various cities. **Details.** Startup Women provides long-lasting support to women-identifying entrepreneurs across Canada throughout the year. The 2026 program includes three webinars (Blueprint for Success: From Idea to Market on March 25; Understanding the Funding Landscape in Canada on June 17; Going Up: Scaling Your Business on October 14) and five industry roundtables (Women in STEM on February 25 - recording now available; Women in Food & Beverage on May 6; Women in Creative Industries on July 22; Women in Retail & E-Commerce on September 16; Women in Franchise Businesses on November 25). The program also includes the Startup Women Empowerment Fund with community events in various cities (details forthcoming). Webinars run 90 minutes, roundtables run 2 hours. Presented in partnership with CIBC Business Banking. **Eligibility.** Open to women-identifying entrepreneurs across Canada ### Startup Gov - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/startup-gov-events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program that connects entrepreneurs with government representatives through webinars, roundtables, and advocacy work. Startup Gov bridges the gap between entrepreneurs and the Government of Canada, providing information on government resources and facilitating policy dialogue. **Details.** Startup Gov provides opportunities for entrepreneurs, the private sector, and government to co-create solutions for entrepreneurial success. The program hosts webinars guiding entrepreneurs through available government resources and how to access them. Past events have included sessions on federal procurement with Procurement Assistance Canada, competition law with the Competition Bureau, Innovation Canada's programs (Business Benefits Finder, Innovation Advisors), All-Party Entrepreneur Caucus Roundtables, and Budget demystification sessions with Parliamentary Secretaries. The 2026 specific programming is still being finalized, with the events page noting 'More events coming soon.' Startup Canada maintains independence from government to be an effective advocacy vehicle on behalf of the entrepreneurship sector. **Eligibility.** Open to all Canadian entrepreneurs ### Startup AI - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/explore/startup-ai/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program launched in February 2026 in partnership with Mastercard to help entrepreneurs navigate AI with confidence, clarity, and care. **Details.** Startup AI was launched on February 2, 2026 in partnership with Mastercard. The program is listed as a flagship program in the site navigation alongside the other core programs. Full program details were not available in the crawled content beyond the launch press release headline. The 2025 Mississauga Tour stop included a panel on 'Emerging Technologies and the Future of Small Business' moderated by Mastercard's Kate Karn and featuring Ali Taiyeb from Vector Institute, indicating AI-related content is integrated across Startup Canada programming. **Eligibility.** Unknown - program details not fully available ### NeuroTech Club - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** SURGE's NeuroTech Club brings together students interested in neurotechnology, brain-computer interfaces, and related fields. The club organizes hackathons (SURGE Brain Hack, BCI NeuroHackathon) and collaborative projects. **Details.** The NeuroTech Club is one of SURGE Innovation's core student clubs, focused on neurotechnology and brain-computer interfaces. It organizes events including the SURGE Brain Hack (Sep 19-21, 2025) and BCI NeuroHackathon (Mar 14-16, 2025), bringing together students for collaborative innovation in neuroscience and technology. **Eligibility.** Open to Dalhousie University students and Faculty of Science community members interested in neurotechnology. ### OceanTech Club - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** SURGE's OceanTech Club focuses on ocean technology innovation, connecting students with the ocean tech sector in Halifax and Atlantic Canada. **Details.** The OceanTech Club is one of SURGE Innovation's student clubs, focused on ocean technology innovation. It connects students with opportunities in the ocean tech sector, leveraging Halifax's strengths in marine science and ocean technology. **Eligibility.** Open to Dalhousie University students and Faculty of Science community members. ### Science Innovation Course - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A for-credit course offered through Dalhousie University's Faculty of Science that teaches science students entrepreneurship and innovation fundamentals. **Details.** The Science Innovation Course is a for-credit academic offering through Dalhousie's Faculty of Science. It provides science students with foundational entrepreneurship and innovation skills, bridging the gap between scientific research and commercial application. **Eligibility.** Dalhousie University students eligible for Faculty of Science courses. ### DalBox - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** DalBox is a student venture program at Dalhousie supporting early-stage student startups with resources, mentorship, and workspace through SURGE Innovation. **Details.** DalBox is SURGE Innovation's student venture program that supports early-stage startups created by Dalhousie students. The program provides resources, mentorship, and access to the SURGE Hub workspace. **Eligibility.** Dalhousie University students with early-stage venture ideas. ### Out East - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/out-east - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free, virtual-first entrepreneurship program supporting racialized 2SLGBTQIA+ founders in Atlantic Canada through curated curriculum, workshops, financial literacy training, 1:1 coaching, and an identity-affirming peer community, powered by the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC). **Details.** Out East is a virtual-first program powered by the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) that helps racialized 2SLGBTQIA+ founders in Atlantic Canada explore entrepreneurship. The program includes curated curriculum and workshops, 1:1 support and monthly office hours with a dedicated Founder Growth Coach, live online conversations with queer and allied leaders in business, structured accountability to move ideas or products forward, visibility and access through Tribe's national ecosystem, and a tight-knit identity-affirming cohort. Monthly Founder Fundamentals sessions cover topics including Orientation and Entrepreneurial Pathways, Business and Finance, Go-to-market Strategies, The Art of Fundraising, Entrepreneurship Identity and Mental Health, Finding Funding and Hiring Talent, Venture Capital Basics, Entrepreneurial Tax Planning, and The Power of Advisory. No business experience, pitch deck, or registration required to apply. **Eligibility.** Must identify as a racialized and 2SLGBTQIA+ person. Must live in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, or Prince Edward Island). Must be interested in exploring entrepreneurship, whether with an idea, a side hustle, or an existing business. No business experience, pitch deck, or registration required. ### Accelerate Tech - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/accelerate-tech - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Tribe Network's flagship venture support program for racialized tech entrepreneurs in Canada, providing milestone-driven coaching, workshops, funding readiness support, peer community, and access to Tribe's national network of investors and partners. **Details.** Accelerate Tech is Tribe Network's flagship venture support program designed for racialized tech entrepreneurs in Canada. The milestone-driven model delivers 1:1 guidance by expert coaches, product leaders, and seasoned founders; workshops and peer learning to sharpen leadership, sales, and scaling strategies; funding readiness support to attract the right investors; a tight-knit cohort of fellow founders; access to Tribe's national network of investors, partners, and tech leaders; and structured accountability. The program supports startups at idea validation, MVP/product development, and growth and scale stages. At least one founder must identify as Black, Indigenous, or otherwise racialized. The startup must be building or using a tech-enabled solution or digital product and be registered or incorporated in Canada. Applications are assessed on strength of the problem being solved, founder-market fit, scalability potential, readiness to engage, and alignment with Tribe's values. **Eligibility.** At least one founder identifies as Black, Indigenous, or otherwise racialized. The startup is building or using a tech-enabled solution or digital product. The company is registered or incorporated in Canada. The startup is at idea validation, MVP/product development, or growth and scale stage. Founders can commit to active participation in coaching, workshops, and milestone tracking. Founders must register as a Tribe Network member and create a company profile through Tribe's community portal. ### Tribe AI Launchpad - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/tribe-ai-launchpad - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An accelerator program developed in partnership with Scale AI providing up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding, expert mentorship, masterclasses, and networking opportunities for startups and SMEs creating applied AI solutions in Canada. **Details.** Tribe AI Launchpad is an accelerator program developed in partnership with Scale AI, Canada's AI Global Innovation Supercluster. The program supports startups and SMEs creating applied AI solutions that have the potential to transform value chains across various industries. Participants receive up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding, mentorship from AI industry experts, investors and experienced entrepreneurs, tailored business development guidance, access to the Scale AI ecosystem with industry partners and funding opportunities, and exclusive workshops, events, and networking opportunities. The process involves submitting an application, team evaluation, pitching and validating the solution before the Scale AI Investment Committee, receiving funding and mentorship for selected participants, and building relationships with investors and industry partners. **Eligibility.** Must be incorporated and operating in Canada. Must be an early-stage startup or SME. Must be developing AI-driven solutions specifically targeting value chain transformation. Must be able to provide evidence of problem and market validation. Must be ready for screening and validation by Scale AI's selection committee. ### Black Youth AI Fellowship - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/black-youth-ai-fellowship - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free, 8-week virtual AI education program for Black university students across Canada, providing real-world AI skills training, hands-on experience with case studies, industry mentorship, a certificate of completion, and a national hackathon. **Details.** The Black Youth AI Fellowship is a free, national fellowship for Black post-secondary students who want to explore the power of artificial intelligence and gain job-ready digital skills. Over 8 weeks (July 7 - August 29), participants attend weekly 120-minute live sessions plus weekly team office hours and curated case study readings. Each session includes learning from an industry expert and Tribe facilitator, a group case study challenge tied to a real-world AI use case, and access to tools and support. The program concludes with a national hackathon. Participants receive real-world AI skills, hands-on experience solving business problems, a certificate of completion and project portfolio, industry mentorship with a national network of mentors and peers, and exposure to careers, internships, and entrepreneurial pathways. No tech background or coding experience is required. **Eligibility.** Must be a Black student enrolled in a Canadian college or university (undergraduate or graduate). No tech background needed. Must have a computer and internet access. ### Accelerate Black Tech - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: program - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/Accelerate - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program by Tribe and Volta to foster a vibrant, inclusive ecosystem that champions diversity and innovation in Atlantic Canada, designed to nurture the talents of Black founders in the tech industry. **Details.** Accelerate Black Tech is a collaboration between Tribe Network and Volta to foster a vibrant, inclusive ecosystem that champions diversity and innovation in Atlantic Canada. The program is designed to nurture the talents of Black founders by providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the tech industry. The program was listed as Not Accepting Applications at time of crawl. **Eligibility.** Must be a Black founder in the tech industry in Atlantic Canada ### Venn Garage - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com/new-page-1 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Venn Garage is a customized, self-paced incubator program for technology-based startups in New Brunswick. It helps early-stage companies test and validate their technology strategy, acquire early adopters and initial funding, and prepare to scale their business. **Details.** The Venn Garage is a hybrid (virtual and in-person) incubator program designed for New Brunswick-based technology startups with global market potential. The program provides a customized plan with milestones and timelines adapted to each team's needs, speed, and challenges. Services include bi-weekly coaching sessions (in English or French), support through critical growth stages such as MVP development, guidance on acquiring first paying customers, access to a group of mentors and entrepreneurs-in-residence with international experience, investment planning and investor pitch preparation, referrals to partner programs across Canada, and access to shared workspace at The Junction in Moncton. Recruitment is quarterly through the Open Pitch competition, where teams or individuals present their idea in a 5-minute pitch followed by 10 minutes of Q&A before a panel of Venn team members, mentors, and notable alumni. The program cost is $200 per participating company for the entire duration, representing an in-kind value of $47,000 per startup. Past and current participants include companies such as FITIV, The Farmer's Truck, Design Agile, Innature Robotics, Air Clarity Solutions, QuberSavings, CandidateHub, Parados, Innerva Virtual, and GrowDoc. **Eligibility.** Must be a technology-focused startup based in New Brunswick with a business idea that addresses current market challenges. Applicants must be curious, hardworking, open to advice, and ready to dedicate time and resources to move forward. ### Tech Connect Southeast - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com/en/tech-connect-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Tech Connect Southeast is a workforce integration program that connects internationally trained and underrepresented IT professionals with paid work placements, hands-on training, and one-on-one mentorship to help them secure employment in New Brunswick's tech sector. **Details.** Tech Connect Southeast is a Venn Innovation program delivered in partnership with the McKenna Institute at the University of New Brunswick, WorkingNB, and ACOA. It is designed to break down barriers and connect job seekers with opportunities in New Brunswick's growing tech sector. The program provides paid work placements, hands-on training, and one-on-one mentorship, helping participants gain industry-relevant skills and Canadian work experience. For internationally trained IT professionals, it creates a pathway into meaningful, long-term careers in the province. For employers, it opens access to job-ready talent. The program's goal is for at least 80% of participants to secure full-time employment in their field after completion. Shannon McMackin serves as the Regional Program Coordinator, bringing over 20 years of experience in recruitment and workforce strategy with companies such as Google, PayPal, Cisco, and VMware. Participants also contribute to community projects for local nonprofits through Civic Tech Moncton. **Eligibility.** Internationally trained IT professionals and underrepresented tech professionals seeking employment in New Brunswick's tech sector. ### AI Residency - Organization: Volta - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://founder.impactos.xyz/auth/signup - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A market-driven residency program for AI startups designed to take founders from idea to $1M+ ARR within 18 months. The program emphasizes rapid assumption testing, market validation, accountability, and finding paying customers through a disciplined, evidence-based approach. **Details.** Residency focuses on helping founders quickly identify where they are wrong and adapt rapidly. The program is structured in two phases: the first 3-6 months focus on establishing a value baseline, proving the problem is worth solving, getting the first paying customer, and then acquiring a statistically significant number of paying customers. Months 12-15 target getting 10X more paying customers and reaching $1M+ ARR. Core principles include being less wrong over time, accountability as a partner, building less and selling more, and prioritizing market evidence over opinion. The program explicitly measures performance by whether teams can monetize value and achieve $1M ARR in 18 months or less. It is tailored to builders who thrive on execution, accountability, and results. Former resident Dash Hudson (now Dash Social) is cited as a success story that found product-market fit during their Volta residency. **Eligibility.** Must be building an AI startup. Teams with builders scale faster. Must be committed to action, accountability, and evidence over ego. ### Scale AI Accelerate - Organization: Volta - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://www.voltaeffect.com/scale-ai - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A program in partnership with Scale AI that provides eligible AI value chain focused companies access to funding and programming to scale their businesses in Atlantic Canada. **Details.** The Scale AI Accelerate program is a partnership between Volta and Scale AI aimed at advancing AI development in Atlantic Canada. It provides eligible AI value chain focused companies with access to funding and programming designed to help them scale. Scale AI is listed as a partner and sponsor on the homepage, and the program has a dedicated navigation link. Specific funding amounts and detailed eligibility criteria are not detailed on the crawled pages. **Eligibility.** Must be an AI value chain focused company eligible for the program ### Sprint - Build With AI in 4 Weeks - Organization: Volta - Category: program - Status: active - Official page: https://sprint.voltaeffect.com - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A 4-week cohort-based intensive where participants ship a real AI project with expert coaching and peer accountability across structured sprints in Web Apps, AI Video, Automation, and Mobile Apps. **Details.** Sprint is a practice-oriented program (not lecture-based) emphasizing coaching over theory. Participants work in small cohorts of 5-10 builders through structured sprints requiring 10+ hours per week over 4 weeks. Sprint tracks include Web Apps, AI Video, Automation, and Mobile Apps. Every sprint ends with a working shipped product, not a pitch deck. Participants leave with one shipped project and one repeatable process for building AI products, along with connections to 5-10 builders per cohort for peer accountability and lasting connections. **Eligibility.** Builders interested in shipping a real AI project. Must commit 10+ hours per week for 4 weeks. --- ## Category: workspace (34) ### Sobeys Inspiration Hub (Workspace & Innovation Spaces) - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/contact-us/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** 7,500 square feet of innovation and collaborative spaces at Saint Mary's University, including a prototyping lab, podcasting studio, and collider space. Available for bookings by community members. **Details.** Located in the Sobeys Inspiration Hub at Saint Mary's University, the Centre provides 7,500 square feet of innovation and collaborative spaces. Facilities include a prototyping lab (STEAM Lab), a podcasting studio, and a collider space. The space is available for community events and bookings. **Eligibility.** Open to students, businesses, and community members ### Boardroom Space Rental - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://bluewatercbdc.ca/products/board-room - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Boardroom space available for rental at the CBDC Blue Water office in Porters Lake. **Details.** CBDC Blue Water offers boardroom space for rental at their office location at 61 Stella Dr Unit 103, Porters Lake, NS. Listed in the footer navigation of the website. ### Drop In - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/membership - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A daily hot-desking option at $20 per day, providing a single hot-desking space with standard coworking amenities including Wifi, free parking, and kitchenette access. Available without a monthly membership commitment. **Details.** The Drop In option provides 1 hot-desking space at $20 per day without requiring a monthly membership commitment. Amenities include central location, free parking, furnished comfortable spaces, Wifi and Ethernet ports, kitchenette and lounge, and tech and office staff support. ### Flex Membership - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1jieKJCYESbeRWvhgusXALAcaql3 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A monthly coworking membership providing 1 hot-desking space for 15 business days per month at $149/month. Includes fast Wifi, receptionist services, a professional mailing address, complimentary coffee and tea, discounts on meeting rooms, reception and printer services, and networking and mentoring opportunities. Currently accepting waitlist signups. **Details.** The Flex Membership is described as perfect for remote workers. It provides secure access during regular office hours, discounts on meeting rooms, reception and printer services, networking and mentoring opportunities, and workshops. Includes 1 hot-desking space with 15 business days per month. All memberships include fast Wifi, receptionist services, a professional mailing address, and complimentary coffee and tea. ### Core Membership - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1jieKJCYESbeRWvhgusXALAcaql3 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A dedicated desk membership with designated desks and 24/7 access at $299/month, with $149 per additional person. Includes access to meeting rooms, fast Wifi, receptionist services, a professional mailing address, and complimentary coffee and tea. Currently accepting waitlist signups. **Details.** The Core Membership offers a dedicated desk, access to meeting rooms, 24/7 secure access plus all the perks of having your own office. Priced at $299 per month with $149 per additional person. All memberships include fast Wifi, receptionist services, a professional mailing address, and complimentary coffee and tea. ### Virtual Mailbox - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1jieKJCYESbeRWvhgusXALAcaql3 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A virtual mailbox service providing a professional 400 Main Street mailing address and message support at $69/month, without requiring physical office presence. **Details.** The Virtual Mailbox provides a professional business mailing address at 400 Main Street, Saint John, NB, along with message support. This service does not require physical office presence and is available via direct signup. ### Meeting & Event Spaces - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.connexionworks.ca/meetings - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A variety of meeting and event rooms available for hourly or daily rental, ranging from break out rooms (1-8 seats, $20/hr) to a full event space (up to 60 people, $50/hr). Open to non-members. Includes The Studio for small group work. **Details.** ConnexionWorks offers a variety of meeting rooms for teams of all sizes, open to both members and non-members. Options include: Break Out Rooms (1-8 seats, $20/hr or $125/day), Meeting Room (1-8 seats, $25/hr or $150/day), Board Room (8-15 seats, $30/hr or $200/day), Conference Room (8-20 seats, $35/hr or $250/day), Event Space (up to 60 people, $50/hr or $300/day), and The Studio (4-6 people, $40/hr or $275/day). Amenities include central location, free parking, furnished comfortable spaces, Wifi and Ethernet ports, dedicated and hotspot desks, quiet booth for privacy and recording, 24/7 access and security, kitchenette and lounge, and tech and office staff support. **Eligibility.** You don't need to be a member to enjoy our professional meeting and event spaces. ### COVE Facility & Marine Terminal - Organization: COVE - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/contact/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Waterfront facility in Canada's deepest harbour providing office space, marine terminal, outdoor storage, vessel berths, and shared infrastructure for short- and long-term tenancies. Currently home to 65+ resident companies. **Details.** COVE's waterfront facility in Canada's deepest harbour provides the space to turn ideas into commercial solutions. Technology companies, post-secondary researchers, and marine-based service businesses come to the COVE facility for programming, and short- and long-term tenancies. The facility includes a marine terminal with vessel berths, outdoor storage, and shared infrastructure. Currently 65+ resident companies are based at the facility. **Eligibility.** Marine technology companies, researchers, and service businesses ### ideaBRIDGE Alumni Affiliate - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://dalideahub.ca/programs/ideabridge/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Post-residency access to coworking space, labs, and in-house engineering team for companies that have graduated from ideaBRIDGE, providing occasional support for continued product and company evolution. **Details.** For companies who have graduated from the ideaBRIDGE Residency, the Emera ideaHUB offers continued access to coworking space, labs, and in-house engineering team. This is useful for alumni needing occasional support while working on their product and company evolution. **Eligibility.** Must have graduated from the ideaBRIDGE Residency program. ### IDEA MakerSpace - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://dalideahub.ca/programs/idea-makerspace/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free, open-access makerspace on the second floor of the Emera IDEA Building for all Dalhousie students, providing tools, equipment, materials, workshops, and guided tutorials for prototyping and personal projects. **Details.** The IDEA MakerSpace is located on the second floor of the Emera IDEA Building and is free to all Dalhousie students. It has open hours with experienced student staff and volunteers who provide assistance for prototype development, personal projects, or learning new skills. The space hosts events including project workshops and guided tutorials. Equipment includes hand tools, woodworking tools, 3D printers, laser cutter and engraver, CNC mill, vacuum former, Cricut vinyl cutter, soldering station and electronics, and casting materials. The MakerSpace is not for curricular projects. A multidisciplinary initiative from Dalhousie's Faculty of Engineering and NSCAD, it is part of the IDEA Sandbox programs that introduce students to innovation and entrepreneurship. **Eligibility.** Must be a current Dalhousie University student. Not for curricular projects. ### Prototyping Labs and Facilities - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://dalideahub.ca/about/facilities/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** On-site prototyping facilities including mechanical assembly, electronics building and testing, 3D printing, and heavy prototyping labs with CNC, waterjet, welding, and machining equipment. **Details.** The Emera ideaHUB provides access to multiple prototyping labs within the Emera IDEA Building. The Robert J. Gillespie Family Lab (mechanical assembly) includes hand tools, drill press, band saw, scroll saw, layout tools, multimeters, sheet metal bender, arbour press, and coordinate-measuring machine. The Randell Family Lab (electronics) includes multimeters, signal generators, oscilloscopes, DC power supplies, soldering stations, Voltera circuit board printer, and Arduino supplies. The MAXIMUM Tools Additive Manufacturing Lab includes 4x Prusa MK3 (PLA/PETG), 2x Dimension (ABS), 1x Markforged Onyx Pro (carbon reinforced nylon), and 2x Form 3 SLA printers. The heavy prototyping lab includes machine lathes, vertical knee mills, universal milling machine, surface grinder, HAAS VF2YT CNC mill, Tormach CNC lathe, CNC router, waterjet cutter, MIG & TIG welding, and overhead gantry cranes. Third-floor labs accessible to ideaBRIDGE participants; first floor shops available on a fee-for-service basis. **Eligibility.** Access varies by program enrollment. ideaBRIDGE residents have full third-floor lab access. ideaBUILD participants have access to labs. ideaDESIGN participants have access to some prototyping resources. First floor shops available on fee-for-service basis depending on availability. ### Coworking at The Dock - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/the-dock - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Flexible coworking space and private offices at The Dock (495 Water Street, St. John's) for remote workers, early-stage teams, and Genesis alumni-led ventures. Also houses the Genesis AI Garage on the second floor. **Details.** Coworking at The Dock offers bright, flexible workspace on the upper floors of 495 Water Street in St. John's. The building is a former Newfoundland Railway terminal now repurposed as a hub for startups, alumni, and AI innovation. The space is designed for remote workers, early-stage teams, and alumni-led ventures. A suite of private offices is also available for companies ready to establish their own base while staying connected to the Genesis community. The Dock also houses the Genesis AI Garage on the second floor. Contact for inquiries is hello@thedockbygenesis.ca. The Dock is listed as a separate location from the Emera Innovation Exchange headquarters. **Eligibility.** Available to remote workers, early-stage teams, and Genesis alumni-led ventures. Specific eligibility details not provided in crawled pages. ### Workspace at Emera Innovation Exchange - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/membership - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Open-concept coworking space at Memorial University's Signal Hill Campus, available to Genesis members. Located in the Emera Innovation Exchange, a historic building that previously served as a recording studio and launchpad for companies like Bluedrop ISM and Radient360. **Details.** Genesis is headquartered at the Emera Innovation Exchange (EIX) on Memorial University's Signal Hill Campus. The space is an open-concept, two-floor hub for early-stage tech companies. Founders working there gain access to a collaborative environment built for startup momentum, where ideas are shared, advice is exchanged, and challenges are solved in real time. The building has historical significance: Signal Hill gained global recognition in 1901 when Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal, and the space was once a recording studio for Great Big Sea and later the launchpad for companies like Bluedrop ISM and Radient360. Genesis shares Signal Hill Campus with Memorial's Gardiner Centre and Conference and Event Services, Business & Arts NL, The Newfoundland Quarterly, and the Memorial University Pensioners' Association. Some Genesis founders live on campus in graduate student accommodations. Workspace access is listed as a core benefit of Genesis Membership. **Eligibility.** Available to Genesis members. Workspace access is listed as a core benefit of Membership. ### Coworking Spaces - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/co-working-at-ignite/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** IGNITE Atlantic provides fully equipped co-working spaces designed to support productivity and innovation. Users can collaborate, create, and connect in shared workspaces across IGNITE's three rural Nova Scotia locations. **Details.** IGNITE Atlantic operates co-working spaces at its three locations: IGNITE Northern in New Glasgow (352 East River Rd.), IGNITE Cape Breton in Sydney (Cape Breton Business Innovation Centre, 500 George St., Suite 200), and IGNITE Southern in Yarmouth (208 Main St.). The spaces are designed to support productivity and innovation, providing a collaborative environment for entrepreneurs and professionals in rural Nova Scotia. ### Room Bookings - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/book-a-room/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** IGNITE Atlantic offers bookable meeting and event rooms with a variety of options to accommodate meetings or events of different sizes and needs at its locations. **Details.** IGNITE Atlantic provides creative spaces with a wide array of options to accommodate meeting or event needs. Users can book rooms at IGNITE locations for their meetings, workshops, or events. The service is linked to a dedicated booking page on the website. ### Incubation Facilities (The Labs, The Bays, Start-Up Yard at COVE) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/start-up-nova-scotia/incubation - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Invest Nova Scotia operates three specialized incubation facilities providing office and lab space, on-site support, flexible leasing, and a collaborative community for emerging technology companies. **Details.** Invest Nova Scotia's incubation facilities provide more than office space -- they offer an ecosystem designed to accelerate the success of emerging technology companies. Each facility targets specific sectors: The Labs in Halifax focuses on life sciences with specialized scientific infrastructure; The Bays in Dartmouth serves clean technology and engineering-based sectors with enterprise-grade networks and server hosting; Start-Up Yard at COVE supports early-stage ocean technology companies. All facilities include on-site support, flexible leasing options, and a collaborative innovator community. **Eligibility.** Emerging technology company in life sciences, clean technology, or ocean technology sectors ### Bioscience Lab and Workspace - Organization: LaunchPad PEI - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://launchpadpei.com/about-launchpad - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** LaunchPad PEI provides CL1 lab space including open bench space and private rooms at the UPEI Regis and Joan Duffy Research Centre, with access to bioscience equipment including CO2 incubators, biosafety cabinets, freezers, and centrifuges. **Details.** Located at the University of PEI Regis and Joan Duffy Research Centre at 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, the workspace includes CL1 lab space with open bench space and private rooms. Bioscience equipment available includes but is not limited to CO2 incubators, biosafety cabinets, -20 and -80 degrees C freezers, and centrifuges. **Eligibility.** Must be an accepted LaunchPad PEI client. Clients must work in designated facilities managed by LaunchPad PEI for the first year of operation in PEI. ### Professional Office and Lab Space - Organization: LaunchPad PEI - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://launchpadpei.com/about-launchpad/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** LaunchPad PEI provides professional and secure office space for startups as well as CL1 bioscience lab space including open bench space and private rooms at the UPEI Regis and Joan Duffy Research Centre, with access to bioscience equipment including CO2 incubators, biosafety cabinets, -20 and -80 degree Celsius freezers, and centrifuges. **Details.** Located at the University of PEI Regis and Joan Duffy Research Centre at 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, the workspace includes professional and secure office space as well as CL1 lab space with open bench space and private rooms. Bioscience equipment available includes but is not limited to CO2 incubators, biosafety cabinets, -20 and -80 degrees Celsius freezers, and centrifuges. For co-working space, LaunchPad PEI directs inquiries to the PEI IT Alliance which oversees The Foundry, offering shared and secure office space as well as start-up and scale-up services. **Eligibility.** Must be an accepted LaunchPad PEI client. Co-working inquiries are directed to PEI IT Alliance / The Foundry. ### Commuter Membership - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1mWOc9VLkQG-PZCn66eQISA2ockb - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Flexible co-working membership providing unlimited commuter desk access with meeting room hours, suited for entrepreneurs who prefer flexibility to come and go. **Details.** The Commuter Membership costs $240/month and is Planet Hatch's most common membership type. Includes unlimited commuter desk access, 7 Conference Room hours, 15 Small Meeting Room hours, and 4 Community Zone hours (or 50% off 8 hours) per month. Includes all Hatch Benefits: 24/7 access, 25% discount on additional room hours, kitchen with complimentary snacks/tea/coffee, Fredericton Chamber of Commerce Membership, free parking, unlimited Wi-Fi, printing, tech pack availability, use of partnering locations, access to Student Hatchers, and funding/coaching/programming through Ignite. Cancellation requires 30 days' written notice. **Eligibility.** 30 days' written notice required for cancellation ### Virtual Office - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1mWOc9VLkQG-PZCn66eQISA2ockb - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Virtual office service providing a professional business address with mail collection for $80/month. **Details.** The Virtual Office membership costs $80/month and provides address use for your business with mail collection services. This membership does not include co-working desk access or Hatch Benefits. ### Private Office Membership - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1mWOc9VLkQG-PZCn66eQISA2ockb - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Private office membership providing a dedicated enclosed office space at Planet Hatch with full Hatch Benefits including 24/7 access, conference room hours, and meeting room hours. **Details.** Offices start at $550/month. Includes choice between on-site exclusive or off-site exclusive private office space. Comes with 8 Conference Room hours, 10 Small Meeting Room hours, 8 Community Zone hours per month. Additional members can be added at no fee (up to max occupancy per office), with each additional member receiving +2 Conference Room hours and +2 Small Meeting Room hours. Includes all Hatch Benefits: 24/7 access, 25% discount on additional room hours, kitchen with complimentary snacks/tea/coffee, Fredericton Chamber of Commerce Membership, free parking, unlimited Wi-Fi, printing, tech pack availability, use of partnering locations, access to Student Hatchers, and funding/coaching/programming through Ignite. **Eligibility.** 30 days' written notice required for cancellation ### Meeting Rooms - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://planethatch.optixapp.com/book/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Bookable meeting rooms with capacity for up to 10 people, available for hourly or daily rental to non-members and members alike. **Details.** Planet Hatch offers four different rooms ranging from 1-2 person capacity up to 10 people. Rooms are suitable for one-on-one meetings, brainstorming sessions, team training, or focused work. Pricing: Mentor Zone at $15/hour or $79/day; Conference Room at $25/hour or $149/day; Fishbowl at $30/hour or $199/day. Members receive included room hours as part of their membership and 25% discount on additional hours. Reservations require 24 hours' notice for cancellation. **Eligibility.** 24 hours' notice required for cancellation ### Event Space (Community Zone) - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1nmNI8fZcTPK9XLsevFYN0Q2ockb - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Large open event space (Community Zone) with 100-standing or 50-seated capacity, available for half-day or full-day rental with audio/visual equipment included. **Details.** The Community Zone is a vibrant open space with a 100-standing person and 50-seated person capacity. It opens onto the entryway and kitchen facilities. Includes audio/visual equipment. Booking is available up to 4 hours for $300 and a full-day rate for $500. Any bookings outside of regular office hours must be made a minimum of 3 days in advance. **Eligibility.** Bookings outside regular office hours must be made a minimum of 3 days in advance ### Nester Membership - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1mWOc9VLkQG-PZCn66eQISA2ockb - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Dedicated desk membership providing unlimited use of a personal desk in Planet Hatch's co-working space with enhanced meeting room hours. **Details.** The Nester Membership costs $275/month and provides unlimited use of a dedicated desk in Planet Hatch's co-working space, offering a consistent workspace. Includes 10 Conference Room hours, 20 Small Meeting Room hours, and 4 Community Zone hours (or 50% off 8 hours) per month. Includes all Hatch Benefits: 24/7 access, 25% discount on additional room hours, kitchen with complimentary snacks/tea/coffee, Fredericton Chamber of Commerce Membership, free parking, unlimited Wi-Fi, printing, tech pack availability, use of partnering locations, access to Student Hatchers, and funding/coaching/programming through Ignite. **Eligibility.** 30 days' written notice required for cancellation ### Facility Membership - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1mWOc9VLkQG-PZCn66eQISA2ockb - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Membership providing bookable access to Planet Hatch's conference rooms and community zone for teams needing meeting and collaboration space. **Details.** The Facility Membership costs $300/month and provides 18 Conference Room hours, 50% off Community Zone bookings, and 25% off additional hours. Bookable Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding holidays. This membership does not include Hatch Benefits or desk access; it is designed for businesses needing meeting and collaboration space. ### Entrepreneurial Add-On - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/1mWOc9VLkQG-PZCn66eQISA2ockb - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Add-on membership for entrepreneurs growing their team, providing Hatch Benefits and commuter desk access for additional team members at $95/month per person. **Details.** The Entrepreneurial Add-On costs $95/month and is designed for entrepreneurs who need to add team members to their existing membership. Includes Hatch Benefits, 2 Conference Room hours, 5 Small Meeting Room hours, and unlimited Commuter Desk access. This add-on is referenced in the FAQ as the additional seat cost for the Commuter Membership. **Eligibility.** Requires an existing Planet Hatch membership ### The SURGE Hub - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The SURGE Hub is an innovation workspace within Dalhousie University's Faculty of Science, providing students with a collaborative space for entrepreneurship and innovation activities. **Details.** The SURGE Hub is a physical innovation space within Dalhousie University that serves as the home base for SURGE Innovation's activities. It provides collaborative workspace for student entrepreneurs, club meetings, events, and venture development. The space is funded by the Province of Nova Scotia as one of Nova Scotia's innovation sandboxes. **Eligibility.** Open to Dalhousie University students and Faculty of Science community members. ### Event Space at Tribe HQ - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/book-our-space/event#spaces - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Rentable event space at Tribe HQ (1717 Barrington Street, Halifax) with four different event spaces in a two-story loft offered at half-day and full-day rates for organizations and visitors. **Details.** Tribe HQ at 1717 Barrington Street, Halifax offers a two-story loft with four different event spaces that can accommodate most needs. The spaces are offered at half-day and full-day rates. The headquarters is described as an in-demand gathering place for local organizations and visitors. **Eligibility.** Open to local organizations and visitors ### Co-Working Space at Tribe HQ - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/book-our-space/coworking#spaces - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Co-working space at Tribe HQ (1717 Barrington Street, Halifax) open 5 days a week to racialized founders, with individual workstations bookable for up to 8 hours per day, Wi-Fi, call booth, and kitchen amenities. **Details.** Tribe HQ offers co-working space open 5 days a week welcoming all racialized founders. Located at 1717 Barrington Street in downtown Halifax, the space provides individual workstations bookable for up to 8 hours per day on a first-come first-served basis, Monday to Friday. Amenities include a central accessible location, individual workspace, fast Wi-Fi access, a call booth for private calls (available for booking), and access to a kitchen equipped with a water cooler and stocked with tea and coffee. Booking is managed through Lauft's booking system. Both advance and same-day reservations are welcome. **Eligibility.** Open to all racialized founders ### Canada - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://canadastechnetwork.ca/fr/programmes/startup-virtual-passport.html - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The CTN Passport Program provides short-term access to physical workspace and equipment at Canada's Tech Network member hub locations at no cost, enabling traveling startups to work from co-working spaces across Canada. **Details.** Through the Canada's Tech Network (CTN) Passport Program, companies accepted into the program can access short-term physical workspace and equipment at CTN member hub locations across Canada, subject to availability. This program is offered through Venn Innovation's membership in the CTN network and enables tech companies to have a place to work when traveling to other Canadian cities. Available at no cost to eligible companies. **Eligibility.** Companies must be accepted into the CTN Passport program. Available to tech startups. Apply through the CTN Passport program page. ### The Junction - Facilities and Space Rentals - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com/en/space-rentals - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Junction is Venn Innovation's co-working and event space located at 770 Saint George Boulevard in Moncton, offering workspace rentals, meeting rooms, and event venue facilities with amenities including free parking, wifi, and refreshments. **Details.** The Junction is Venn Innovation's physical facility at 770 Saint George Boulevard, Moncton, NB E1E 2C6. It serves as a co-working space, event venue, and the headquarters for Venn Innovation's programs. The facility offers comfortable coworking stations, free parking, fast wifi, and coffee/tea/filtered water. Venn periodically hosts free workday events (documented in January 2024, February 2024, and April 2024) allowing the public to experience the space, sometimes with bonus offerings like bagel breakfasts and free advice from business professionals. The facility includes a Learning Centre used for events and workshops, and meeting/event rooms available for rental. The Junction hosts community events, tech meetups, and program activities. The space is also referred to as 'The Junction by Venn' and 'The Junction NB' in event listings. **Eligibility.** Open to technology professionals, entrepreneurs, innovators, and organizations seeking workspace or event space. ### Focus Coworking Membership - Organization: Volta - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://volta.spaces.nexudus.com/?portal - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Daytime coworking membership providing access to Volta's downtown Halifax space from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday, including general seating, soundproof call booths, community office hours, and a 10% discount on meeting rooms. **Details.** The Focus membership offers coworking space access during business hours with general seating in the common area, use of soundproof private call booths, 10% discount on meeting room bookings, access to community office hours, and pay-per-use printing. Optional add-ons include coffee and tea ($30/month) and mailing and business address ($50/month). Memberships are offered on an individual basis; every team member must sign up individually. **Eligibility.** Individual sign-up required; team members must sign up individually ### Build Coworking Membership - Organization: Volta - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://volta.spaces.nexudus.com/?portal - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Premium 24/7 coworking membership with a dedicated workspace (desk, chair, filing cabinet), exclusive boardroom access, 10 complimentary meeting room hours per month, complimentary snacks, and included mailing and business address. **Details.** The Build membership includes 24/7 access to Volta's coworking space with a dedicated workspace (desk, chair, filing cabinet), exclusive boardroom reserved for Build members available for booking at no cost, 10 complimentary meeting room hours per month with 25% discount on additional bookings, complimentary snacks, and included mailing and business address. Coffee and tea available as an add-on for $30/month. Memberships are on an individual basis; every team member must sign up individually. **Eligibility.** Individual sign-up required; team members must sign up individually ### Virtual Office Membership - Organization: Volta - Category: workspace - Status: active - Official page: https://volta.spaces.nexudus.com/?portal - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Virtual office membership providing a mailing and business address at Volta's downtown Halifax location, with mail pick-up available during business hours. Does not include physical workspace access. **Details.** The Virtual Office membership provides a professional mailing and business address at Volta's downtown Halifax location. Mail pick-up is available from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. This membership does not include physical workspace access or community office hours. **Eligibility.** Individual sign-up required --- ## Category: event (57) ### The Arena Pitch Competition - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/thearena/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Canada-wide pitch competition where student entrepreneurs compete head-to-head for a $10,000 prize and national recognition. The competition is streamed live. **Details.** The Arena Pitch Competition is a national-level pitch competition for student entrepreneurs. Competitors refine their ideas and pitching skills through multiple rounds, receiving expert feedback and making connections after each pitch. The competition is live-streamed and culminates in a final event with a $10,000 grand prize. **Eligibility.** Must be a current student entrepreneur ### Events and Workshops - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/events - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** BBI hosts events and workshops on various business topics such as digital strategy, AI for operational excellence, and climate incentives for small businesses. BBI also hosts larger events including the annual Black Business Summit. **Details.** BBI regularly hosts events and workshops for entrepreneurs covering a range of business-relevant topics. Recent and upcoming events include online workshops on topics such as 'Future-proofing Your Business Through Digital Strategy' and 'Digital Tools and AI for Operational Excellence', as well as in-person events like the BBI Black Business Summit and 30th Anniversary Gala at the Halifax Convention Center. Events are listed on the BBI events page and registration is typically through Eventbrite. **Eligibility.** Open to Black entrepreneurs and business owners. Some events may be open to the general public. ### Black Business Summit and 30th Anniversary Gala - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/summit - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** BBI's flagship annual event celebrating 30 years. The 2026 summit theme is 'Innovation in Motion: The Future of Black Entrepreneurship in Atlantic Canada,' held March 19-20, 2026 at the Halifax Convention Center. **Details.** The BBI Black Business Summit and 30th Anniversary Gala is a major event hosted by BBI in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The 2026 event is held March 19-20, 2026 at the Halifax Convention Center with the theme 'Innovation in Motion: The Future of Black Entrepreneurship in Atlantic Canada.' This landmark event celebrates BBI's 30 years of supporting Black businesses. **Eligibility.** Open to Black entrepreneurs, business owners, and community members. ### Bilingual Grant Writing Workshop for Black Nonprofits - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/virtual-bilingual-grant-writing-workshop-for-black-nonprofits-tickets-1986029717347 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Virtual bilingual grant writing workshops open to all Black nonprofits across Canada, delivered as part of the SBCCI program support. **Details.** BBI delivers virtual bilingual grant writing workshops open to all Black nonprofits across Canada. These workshops support the capacity-building goals of the SBCCI program by helping Black-led nonprofit organizations develop grant writing skills. Multiple sessions are offered, with events scheduled in April 2026 (April 23 and April 29, 2026). **Eligibility.** Open to all Black nonprofits across Canada ### Events and Workshops - Organization: CBDC Blue Water - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/cbdc-blue-water-64660143683 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Regular events and workshops hosted or co-hosted by CBDC Blue Water for entrepreneurs in rural HRM, listed on Eventbrite. Open to collaboration with private, public, or non-profit organizations. **Details.** CBDC Blue Water hosts and participates in regular events for entrepreneurs in the rural HRM community. Events are listed on Eventbrite. The organization is open to collaborating with private, public, and non-profit organizations to offer events that involve their organizations in local economic development. **Eligibility.** Open to entrepreneurs and community organizations. ### Entrepreneurial Edge - Organization: CEED - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/start-smart-with-ceed-tickets-460221995377 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free monthly 60-minute online workshop introducing aspiring entrepreneurs to local resources, business planning approaches, and CEED's programs and financial support. **Details.** Entrepreneurial Edge is a free, recurring online workshop held on the first Thursday of every month. It serves as the primary entry point for aspiring entrepreneurs who are unsure how to get started. Participants explore community resources for entrepreneurs, learn a simple and proven approach to planning their business, discover CEED's advisory, training, and community offerings, and learn about financial support available through CEED and its partners. A Cape Breton edition is also available with additional focus on resources for Cape Breton entrepreneurs. **Eligibility.** Open to aspiring entrepreneurs ### Ask The Expert Workshop Series - Organization: CEED - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/ask-the-expert-workshop-series - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An ongoing monthly online workshop series where experts in various fields volunteer to share knowledge and skills with CEED alumni and entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia. **Details.** The Ask The Expert series is a monthly online workshop where professionals and business owners in various fields volunteer their time to share knowledge and skills with entrepreneurs in the CEED network and broader community. Topics have included social media marketing, accounting, legal matters, and more. The series aims to increase resources available to CEED alumni and entrepreneurs through community collaboration. Previous speakers have included professionals from marketing, accounting, legal, and technology firms. **Eligibility.** Open to CEED alumni and entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia ### Funding Readiness Workshop - Organization: CEED - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/so-you-need-a-business-loan-are-you-actually-ready-tickets-1983452684372?aff=oddtdtcreator - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A live workshop to help entrepreneurs understand exactly what lenders look for before applying for a business loan. **Details.** CEED's Funding Readiness Workshop is a live event titled 'So You Need a Business Loan - Are You Actually Ready?' designed to help entrepreneurs understand what lenders evaluate before they apply for financing. The workshop is available through Eventbrite registration. **Eligibility.** Open to entrepreneurs considering applying for business financing ### International Women - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://register.onitevents.ca/register/CWBIWD26 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** CWB's largest annual event and Atlantic Canada's biggest IWD celebration, featuring inspiring speakers, networking, and community building for women-identifying and gender diverse business owners. **Details.** The 2026 International Women's Day breakfast celebration takes place on Friday, March 6th from 7:30-11:30am at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront. The theme is 'Give to Gain,' exploring how generosity fuels growth in business, leadership, and community. Five speakers share stories showing that giving happens at every stage of business. Featured speakers include Princess Octavious (P3 Hair and Beauty Supplies), Kerra Aucoin (KA Social Media Consulting), Kyla Derry (Intimately U), Jennifer Vey (Temporary Experts Social Enterprise), and Mara Vizzutti (New Avenue Leadership). Pricing is $65 for individual tickets and $650 per table of 10 for members. Gold Sponsor: RBC. Bronze Sponsor: NSACSW. **Eligibility.** Open to women-identifying and gender diverse business owners and their supporters ### Virtual Power Lunch - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/power-lunch-series/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A virtual lunch-hour learning series for women entrepreneurs at pre-startup through growing stages, featuring presentations from members and external speakers on business topics. **Details.** Virtual Power Lunch sessions are positioned on the CWB spectrum of services for pre-startup through growing-stage entrepreneurs (excluding high-growth). Members can submit proposals to be Power Lunch Leaders. The sessions provide short-format learning during the lunch hour. **Eligibility.** Open to women-identifying entrepreneurs ### Networking Events - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Regular community networking events held across Nova Scotia including Networking Nights, Networking Lunches, and themed networking experiences. Both free and paid events are available. **Details.** CWB hosts and promotes regular community networking events across Nova Scotia. Recent examples include Networking Nights in St Margaret's Bay (free, drop-in), Networking Lunches in St Margaret's Bay (pay-your-own), and themed experiences such as 'Play Your Cards Right: A Tarot-Inspired Networking Experience' ($95, with early-bird 2-for-1 deals). Events are held at various venues across the Halifax Regional Municipality and surrounding areas. **Eligibility.** Open to women in business and professionals ### Business Essentials Workshops - Organization: ConnexionWorks - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://share.hsforms.com/159htMs4FRk6nV69nF4hmKgcaql3 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free-of-charge, in-person workshops led by local business experts and ConnexionWorks facilitators, offering entrepreneurs and businesses practical tools for their business development toolkit. Topics include pricing strategies, social media planning, branding, and sales strategies. **Details.** Business Essentials are in-person and free-of-charge workshops offering entrepreneurs and businesses the opportunity to grow their skills. Each session is led by a local business expert or community partner and involves a practical tool for the participant's business development toolkit. Participants can walk away and use the tool they have learned right away, such as creating a media post on Canva, invoicing in QuickBooks, protecting their online identity, and knowledge for accessing capital. The workshops also provide opportunities to connect with other small business owners and like-minded people. The cost is subsidized by the Impact Loan, with support from Envision Saint John: The Regional Growth Agency. Upcoming March 2026 sessions: Pricing Strategies (March 9, 6pm-9pm), Social Media Planning (March 16, 6pm-9pm), How to Create Your Branding (March 23, 6pm-9pm), Strategies for Sales (March 30, 6pm-9pm). **Eligibility.** Open to entrepreneurs and businesses. ### Ocean Connector Events - Organization: COVE - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1987024817719?aff=oddtdtcreator - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Recurring networking and knowledge-sharing events on specific marine technology topics, bringing the COVE community together for presentations and discussion. **Details.** Ocean Connector events are recurring COVE community events focused on specific marine technology topics. For example, the April 2026 event focuses on 'Exploring the Future of Distributed Sonar Operations.' These events provide networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities for the marine technology community. ### COVE Demo Day - Organization: COVE - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/cove-demo-day-tickets-1981577644076 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Annual event connecting global industry, investors, defence end users, and government to see proven, deployable marine technology in action and facilitate business deals. 2026 event: June 11. **Details.** Demo Day connects global industry, investors, defence, and government to see proven, deployable tech in action and make real deals. Demo Day brings together global industry, investors, defence end users, and government. The 2026 Demo Day is scheduled for June 11, 2026, from 10:00am to 3:00pm at the COVE facility. Participants can register as demonstrators, sponsors, or attendees. **Eligibility.** Companies with proven, deployable marine technology (for demonstrators); also open to sponsors and attendees ### CDL Intro Webinar - Organization: Creative Destruction Lab - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://creativedestructionlab.com/webinars/cdl-intro/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An introductory webinar for prospective applicants to learn about the CDL program, meet the team, and understand what makes the program unique before deciding to apply. **Details.** CDL hosts introductory webinars (info sessions) for prospective founders and ventures considering applying to the program. These sessions provide an overview of the CDL program, its structure, available streams and locations, and allow attendees to ask questions and meet CDL team members. **Eligibility.** Open to anyone interested in learning about the CDL program. ### Tech Forward Awards - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: event - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/tech-forward-awards/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Annual awards ceremony recognizing organizations and individuals making a difference in Nova Scotia's tech sector, featuring 8 award categories. Presented by Tech@RBC. **Details.** The Tech Forward Awards feature 8 categories: Talent Champion Award, Tech for Good Award, Thinking Forward Award, Provincial Spotlight Award, Best of Tech Award, One to Watch Award, Role Model Award, and Diversity and Inclusion Champion Award. The 2026 event is scheduled for November 26, 2026 at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Halifax. Nominees may be self-nominated, nominated by colleagues, or employers. Eligibility generally requires at least 1 year in business; Crown Corporations/100% government-funded organizations are not eligible. Membership in DNS is not required. **Eligibility.** Most categories: in business at least 1 year. Crown Corporations/100% government-funded organizations not eligible. DNS membership not required. ### AI Discovery Series - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A series of one-day, in-person workshops across Nova Scotia providing SMEs with practical introductions to AI, covering topics like making AI work for non-technical users, automating knowledge work with AI agents, and getting AI to work for businesses. **Details.** The AI Discovery Series consists of one-day, in-person workshops delivered across multiple Nova Scotia locations including Halifax, Wolfville, South Shore, and North Shore. Designed for small and medium-sized businesses, the workshops provide a practical introduction to AI: what it is, how it works, and how it can be applied to everyday business operations. Topics include making AI work for non-technical users, getting AI to do the work, and AI Agents for automating knowledge work. Includes complimentary breakfast and lunch. Delivered by Digital Nova Scotia in partnership with local ecosystem organizations and AI experts. **Eligibility.** Designed for Nova Scotia SMEs ### Executive Lounge Events - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/events - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Invitation-only events for senior leaders from industry, government, and research, featuring panel discussions, presentations, and curated networking opportunities on strategic tech topics. **Details.** Executive Lounge events bring together senior leaders from industry, government, and research for dialogue, relationship-building, and practical insights. The February 2026 event focused on Dual-Use Technologies and how Nova Scotia's technology sector can support Canada's defence priorities and national sovereignty. These are invitation-only events; interested parties can reach out to DNS staff for access. Events feature expert panel discussions, short presentations, and curated networking. **Eligibility.** Invitation-only. Interested parties can contact DNS for access. By invitation only ### Community Events Calendar - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A comprehensive calendar of tech community events in Nova Scotia aggregating DNS-organized events and partner/community events, including meetups, workshops, hackathons, networking socials, and industry showcases. **Details.** Digital Nova Scotia maintains a comprehensive events calendar listing both DNS-organized and partner/community events across the Nova Scotia tech ecosystem. Events include meetups (Vibe Coding, Women in ML/DS, DEFCON Halifax), workshops (AI in the Workplace, ChatGPT in Projects), hackathons (Global Game Jam), networking events, lunch and learns, industry showcases, and more. Events are typically held in Halifax, Cape Breton, and other locations across Nova Scotia. The calendar is available for Google Calendar, iCalendar, and Outlook subscription. **Eligibility.** Most events are open to the public. Some are member-exclusive. ### Industry Events and Networking - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Regular schedule of tech community events including AI showcases, networking mixers, workshops, cybersecurity talks, and community meetups across Nova Scotia. **Details.** Digital Nova Scotia hosts and promotes a robust calendar of events (35+ events in April 2026 alone) including member-exclusive mixers, AI Showcase and Mixer events (with Volta), Third Wednesdays networking nights, Power Lunch series, SME workshops (marketing on a budget), AI Discovery Series across Nova Scotia communities (e.g., Yarmouth), and partner events such as ATLSECCON, Startup Canada Tour, and DEFCON Halifax Meetup. Events are held at locations across Nova Scotia including Halifax, Dartmouth, and regional communities. **Eligibility.** Some events are member-exclusive (Professional Membership level or higher). Many events are open to the public. ### Pitch Assistance Program Information Sessions - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.member365.ca/public/event/details/d31e028e74b9af9e7118f30655f711852fc9c3dc/1 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free information sessions open to FBA members and non-members explaining what is required for food safety, labeling, distribution, and marketing to be 'retail ready' before participating in the FBA Pitch Assistance Program. **Details.** FBA hosts free info sessions in advance of its retail Pitch Assistance Program events. These sessions are led by FBA's Director of Operations, Ryan Gallant, and cover what companies need to know about food safety, labeling, distribution, and marketing to be 'retail ready.' The sessions are open to both FBA members and non-members. A Costco-focused info session was scheduled for March 18, 2026 (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM AST, virtual). Attendees learn about the details of what is needed when successfully pitching to retailers and how to apply to participate in the FBA Pitch Program. Sessions are described as recurring ahead of each pitch cycle. **Eligibility.** Free for FBA members and non-members. ### Be Retail-Ready: Meeting Microbial Testing Expectations - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.member365.ca/public/event/details/3eb1e2d9ed6c38346cdfab33306cd85158c602e9/1 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A practical, audit-informed webinar co-hosted with LuminUltra to help food and beverage processors strengthen environmental monitoring programs and demonstrate retail readiness with confidence. **Details.** This one-hour webinar goes beyond compliance checklists to explore how retailers and auditors evaluate sanitation effectiveness, environmental control, and risk management. The session focuses on common audit themes, supplier best practices, and how enhanced monitoring tools can support stronger, more defensible food safety programs without unnecessary complexity. Co-hosted by Food & Beverage Atlantic and LuminUltra. Scheduled for April 8, 2026, 9:00-10:00 AM AST. ### The Customer Feedback Recipe: Turning Consumer Insights into Shelf Dominance - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.member365.ca/public/event/details/811539ae5f89473337fc008e60685885946f7226/1 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A one-hour webinar helping Atlantic Canadian food and beverage processors capture and use Voice of Customer data to protect retail listings, prove performance to buyers, and reduce the risk of delisting, led by Mohammed Bellamine of CCNB-INNOV. **Details.** This one-hour webinar is designed to help Atlantic Canadian food and beverage processors capture and use the Voice of Customer to protect listings, prove performance to buyers, and reduce the risk of delisting. Led by Mohammed Bellamine of CCNB-INNOV, the session shares practical, low-cost tools and real-world examples that show how to turn customer feedback into clear, actionable insights you can use right away, no large budgets or data teams required. Scheduled for May 14, 2026, 9:00-10:00 AM AST. ### SIAL Canada 2026 (Walker Program) - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.ca/events-training - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** FBA facilitates attendance at SIAL Canada 2026 in Montreal through a walker program, providing Atlantic Canadian food and beverage companies exposure to national and international markets at this major trade show. **Details.** SIAL Canada 2026 takes place at the Palais des Congres in Montreal, Quebec, from April 29 to May 1, 2026. FBA facilitates participation through a walker program, with applications still being accepted. For information on registration, participants are directed to contact FBA directly at admin@atlanticfood.ca. This is a major international food trade show providing exposure to national and international buyers. **Eligibility.** Walker program applications are still being accepted. Contact FBA for registration information. ### EU Capacity Building Workshops - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: event - Status: unknown - Official page: https://atlanticfood.ca/presentations/eu-capacity-building-workshops-atlantic-canada-2019 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Export-focused workshops providing Atlantic Canadian food companies with information on European markets, logistics, and trade missions, featuring speakers on EU market entry, freight considerations, and government export support services. **Details.** FBA has organized EU Capacity Building Workshops for Atlantic Canada featuring speakers on the European food market (Victor Phaff), logistics and freight considerations between Canada and the EU (Patrick Bohan), EU business missions to Germany and the Netherlands (Kevin Pomroy), Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada services for Canadian exporters (Cheryl Donnelly), market overviews for EU and Germany (Julie Fergerson-Ceniti), and Poland market overview (Katarzyna Piliszek-Laminska). The most recent documented workshop was September 9, 2019. The presentations are archived on the FBA website. Current status of recurring workshops is unknown. ### The Genesis Pitch - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: event - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/genesis-pitch - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An annual pitch competition where five Genesis-affiliated startups compete on stage for more than $45,000 in prizes, including a $30,000 top prize and the iconic Pitcher Plant trophy. Debuted as the finale of techNL Innovation Week 2025. **Details.** The Genesis Pitch is an annual pitch competition that serves as a launchpad for Newfoundland and Labrador's next generation of tech ventures. Five finalists take the stage to share their vision, traction, and potential in front of an audience of founders, funders, and community members. The competition offers more than $45,000 in prizes, including a $30,000 top prize and the iconic Pitcher Plant trophy. The 2025 edition debuted as the finale of techNL Innovation Week at the St. John's Convention Centre (Bowring Ballroom). After prizes are awarded, the celebration continues at Pitch & Party, an exclusive afterparty bringing together founders, partners, investors, and the broader community. Applicants must have participated in a Genesis program (Startups 101, Evolve, or Membership, or former programs Evolution, Evo+, or Enterprise) within the past three years, hold active Genesis membership at the time of competition, be incorporated in Newfoundland and Labrador, and not have secured venture capital funding. Angel investments, government grants, and other non-dilutive funding do not affect eligibility. Past winners may apply only with a new startup. Applications for the next edition are currently closed; interested founders can subscribe to the newsletter for notifications. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. **Eligibility.** Must have participated in a Genesis program (Startups 101, Evolve, Membership, or former programs: Evolution, Evo+, Enterprise) within the past three years. Must hold active Genesis membership at the time of competition. Venture must be incorporated in Newfoundland and Labrador. Must not have secured venture capital funding. ### Build48 - Organization: Genesis Centre - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.genesiscentre.ca/build48 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An annual 48-hour event where participants go from zero to a launched product in an intensive startup sprint. Next edition scheduled for March 28-29, 2026. **Details.** Build48 is an annual event organized by Genesis Centre that challenges participants to go from zero to a launched product in 48 intense hours. The event is positioned around the idea that the rules of startups have changed and that rapid building and shipping is essential. The next edition is scheduled for March 28-29, 2026. The dedicated Build48 page (genesiscentre.ca/build48) was not crawled, so further details on registration, eligibility, format, and pricing are not available from the crawled data. The events page lists it as a recurring annual event. **Eligibility.** Details not available from crawled pages. The dedicated Build48 page was not scraped. ### Tuesday Lunch & Learn Series - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/upcoming-events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A recurring weekly Lunch & Learn series hosted at IGNITE Atlantic locations, covering business topics including accounting, marketing, government programs, leadership, publishing, AI/vibe coding, export development, and more. Sessions are typically free with lunch provided. **Details.** IGNITE Atlantic hosts a recurring Lunch & Learn series primarily at the Cape Breton Business Innovation Centre in Sydney (as part of the Tuesday Lunch & Learn series), and also at its Yarmouth location. Sessions feature guest speakers and cover a wide range of topics relevant to entrepreneurs and business owners, including: Self-Employment Benefit Programs, the START Program for employer wage support, export development via Invest NS, social media marketing and short-form video creation (with Elevate Media), bookkeeping fundamentals (with Day to Day Finance's Alison Giovannetti), behaviour-based leadership (with Carol Meyers), publishing (with FriesenPress in partnership with Blood & Honey Collective), AI/vibe coding (with Volta), Mitacs funding programs, and supports available from Volta. Events are typically 1-2 hours, free to attend, and include a complimentary lunch. Registration via Eventbrite is required. **Eligibility.** Open to the public. Registration via Eventbrite required. ### IGNITING Women in Business - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/upcoming-events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A recurring event series hosted by IGNITE Atlantic focused on women entrepreneurs. Sessions feature guest speakers covering topics such as mindset, burnout prevention, boundaries, and self-care for women in business. **Details.** IGNITING Women in Business is a recurring event series by IGNITE Atlantic that brings in guest speakers to address topics relevant to women entrepreneurs. A documented session featured ICF-Certified Coach Melissa Pike speaking about setting boundaries, shifting unhelpful mindset patterns that lead to burnout, and redefining self-care as part of achievement. Participants leave with practical tools to set and implement boundaries, shift mindset patterns, and redefine self-care. The events are designed to help women entrepreneurs step into greater confidence, empowerment, and productivity. **Eligibility.** Open to women entrepreneurs. Registration via Eventbrite required. ### Atlantic Venture Forum 2026 - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticventureforum.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A two-day technology and entrepreneurship conference at the Halifax Convention Centre featuring a technology showcase of early-stage and growth-stage Atlantic Canadian companies, investor networking, and business intelligence sessions on investment and innovation trends. Organized by the Atlantic Venture Forum organization and listed on IGNITE Atlantic's events calendar. **Details.** The Atlantic Venture Forum (AVF) is a multi-day conference held at the Halifax Convention Centre on June 17-18, 2026. Originally launched in 2013, the event brings together tech industry executives, entrepreneurs, investors, corporate strategics, and research partners. The forum features a Technology Showcase of early-stage and growth-stage companies from the Atlantic Canadian region, premium networking, and sessions with industry experts on the latest investment and innovation trends. Note: This event is organized by the Atlantic Venture Forum organization (not IGNITE Atlantic) but is listed on IGNITE Atlantic's events calendar. ### Business Basics - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://myignite.ca/business-basics - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Hour-long information session on the basics of starting a business, covering business plans, registration, business structure, and funding options, delivered by a Business Startup Specialist. **Details.** Business Basics is an hour-long session led by a Business Startup Specialist. Topics include business plans, registration of a business, business structure, and funding options, followed by a Q&A period. This session is recommended as a first step for those interested in starting a business, with questions about a business plan, or wondering about funding options. The FAQ recommends this session for entrepreneurs who do not yet have a business idea. Sessions are delivered through Ignite. **Eligibility.** Open to anyone interested in starting a business ### Marketing Basics - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://myignite.ca/marketing-basics - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** One-hour workshop on foundational marketing concepts, strategies, and tools, hosted by Ignite to help participants make informed marketing decisions. **Details.** Marketing Basics is a one-hour workshop delivered by Ignite that provides participants with a solid understanding of key marketing concepts, strategies, and tools. The workshop empowers participants to make informed marketing decisions and drive business success. Topics cover foundational marketing knowledge applicable to businesses and personal ventures. ### Open Office Wednesday - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.instagram.com/planet_hatch/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free weekly drop-in day every Wednesday, providing access to Planet Hatch's Community Zone, Hot Desks, and more from 8:30am to 4:30pm. **Details.** Open Office Wednesday allows anyone to drop in to Planet Hatch for free every Wednesday and gain access to the Community Zone, Hot Desks, and other facilities. Drop-in times are between 8:30am and 4:30pm. Cancellations are announced via Planet Hatch's social media channels. ### IP Awareness Events and Training - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/ipadvantage/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** IP awareness events and training sessions delivered by Regional IP Counsellors across Atlantic Canada to educate startups and entrepreneurs about intellectual property. Attendance is a prerequisite for certain IP Advantage funding streams. **Details.** As part of the IP Advantage and IP Assist programs, Springboard Atlantic's Regional IP Counsellors deliver IP awareness events and training sessions across Atlantic Canada. These events are designed to educate startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs about intellectual property and its importance for business growth. Attendance at IP awareness events is a prerequisite for the IP Advantage Implementation funding stream. The homepage prominently features the question 'Are you protecting your intellectual property?' and directs users to IP Advantage and IP Assist programs. **Eligibility.** Open to startups, SMEs, entrepreneurs, and others interested in learning about IP ### Dual-Use Technology Summit - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/unb-springboard-host-dual-use-technology-summit-in-fredericton/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A summit convened by Springboard Atlantic and network member universities to explore dual-use technology (civilian and defence applications), held in Fredericton, February 25-26, 2026. **Details.** Springboard Atlantic is partnering with network members including the University of New Brunswick, Acadia University, Memorial University, and St. Francis Xavier University to convene the Dual-Use Technology Summit in Fredericton, NB, February 25-26, 2026. The summit is designed to demystify dual-use technology for researchers and industry. **Eligibility.** Unknown ### Springboard Atlantic Events - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Springboard Atlantic hosts events related to research commercialization, technology transfer, and industry collaboration in Atlantic Canada, including summits and sector-specific convenings. **Details.** Springboard Atlantic maintains a dedicated Events section on its website and hosts events that bring together researchers, industry, and ecosystem stakeholders. Recent events referenced include the Dual-Use Technology Summit (February 25-26, 2026, Fredericton, NB) organized with partner universities (UNB, Acadia University, Memorial University, St. Francis Xavier University). The organization also coordinates its 20th anniversary celebrations and produces content like its 'Greatest Hits' collection and podcast. A dedicated Coordinator for Administration and Events (Theresa MacLeod) manages event logistics. **Eligibility.** Unknown; likely varies by event ### Startup Atlantic Event Hub - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: http://events.startupatlantic.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An aggregated event listing platform that compiles startup-related events from across Atlantic Canada into a single hub. **Details.** The Startup Atlantic Event Hub is a separate platform (events.startupatlantic.ca) that aggregates startup and entrepreneurship events from across the Atlantic Canadian ecosystem. It serves as a centralized calendar for founders and ecosystem participants to discover networking events, conferences, pitch competitions, workshops, and other startup-related gatherings happening across the four Atlantic provinces. The hub is linked prominently from the main Startup Atlantic website navigation. **Eligibility.** Open access ### Startupfest Atlantic Delegation & Prize Draw - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: event - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://www.startupatlantic.ca/startupfest - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Startup Atlantic organizes Atlantic Canadian delegations to Startupfest in Montreal and runs associated prize draws for founders in the region. **Details.** Startup Atlantic coordinates attendance at major national startup events, notably Startupfest in Montreal. The organization has run delegations in previous years (2024 included a delegation to Startupfest July 10-12) and offers prize draw opportunities for Atlantic Canadian founders connected to these events. The website banner promotes a prize draw with sign-up by August 15. This offering positions Startup Atlantic as a connector between Atlantic Canadian founders and national startup events. **Eligibility.** Sign up required; deadline mentioned as August 15 ### Startup Atlantic Peer-to-Peer Events - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupatlantic.ca - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Peer-to-peer networking events organized by Startup Atlantic where founders share experiences about what is working and what is not in their startup journeys. **Details.** Startup Atlantic organizes peer-to-peer events that bring together startup founders in Atlantic Canada for candid discussions about their experiences. These events follow a 'What's Working, What's Not' format where founders share practical insights and lessons learned with each other. Events are held across Atlantic Canada. **Eligibility.** Open to startup founders at any stage across Atlantic Canada. Check the Startup Atlantic website or event hub for upcoming events. ### Startup Atlantic Kitchen Party and Peer-to-Peer Events - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: event - Status: seasonal - Official page: http://events.startupatlantic.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Startup Atlantic organizes community networking events such as Kitchen Party gatherings and Peer-to-Peer events for ecosystem participants across Atlantic Canada. **Details.** Startup Atlantic hosts community-driven events including Kitchen Party gatherings (such as the Atlantic Venture Forum kick-off event) and Peer-to-Peer events where ecosystem participants share 'What's Working, What's Not' insights. These events provide networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities for founders and ecosystem builders. The Kitchen Party event has been associated with the Atlantic Venture Forum (AVF). These are Startup Atlantic-branded events designed to foster collaboration within the regional ecosystem. ### Startup Global National Pitch Competition - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/startup-global-national-pitch-competition/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A coast-to-coast pitch competition for early-stage and scale-up entrepreneurs with global ambitions. Includes qualifying rounds at three Startup Canada Tour stops and one virtual competition, with four finalists advancing to a Grand Finale in Mississauga for a $30,000 prize. Total prize pool is $68,000. **Details.** The Startup Global National Pitch Competition is a multi-stage competition designed for early-stage and scale-up Canadian entrepreneurs intending to export internationally. Stage 1 involves qualifying pitch competitions at three Tour stops (Halifax April 29, Victoria September 29, Mississauga October 29) and one virtual competition (May 26 first-round, May 28 Top 10 Finals). One finalist is selected from each, winning $8,500 each. Stage 2 is the Grand Finale in Mississauga where one winner receives $30,000. A $1,000 People's Choice Award is given at each qualifying round. Pitches are 3 minutes verbal (no slides or props aside from small tabletop products), followed by Q&A. Total prize pool is $68,000. Judging criteria focus on global scaling potential across seven dimensions: target market, objective, solution, leadership, traction, competition, and ability to go global. **Eligibility.** Intention/ability to export within 2 years; minimum 1 year generating revenue or actively fundraising for R&D; between $50,000 and $1,000,000 in revenue as of February 2, 2026; less than $1,000,000 in total fundraising/investment; less than 8 years of operation; business founded/headquartered in Canada. ### Startup Canada Tour - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/explore/startuptour/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A national in-person event series that travels to major Canadian cities, connecting early-stage entrepreneurs with local ecosystem partners, industry experts, keynote speakers, and panel discussions. The tour features mainstage sessions, workshops, networking opportunities, and pitch competitions. **Details.** Since 2023, the Startup Canada Tour has been traveling nationwide, connecting early-stage entrepreneurs with local ecosystem partners. In 2025, the tour visited 10 cities with events featuring keynote speakers such as Michele Romanow and Wes Hall, panel discussions on topics like funding, mental health, AI, scaling, and resilience, workshops on topics like reducing shopping cart abandonment, and networking sessions. The 2026 tour is returning with stops in Halifax (April 29), Victoria (September 29), and Mississauga (October 29). Events also host Startup Global National Pitch Competition qualifying rounds at each stop. The 2025 Mississauga stop included keynotes, panel discussions on resilience and funding, sessions with the Competition Bureau and BDC on financing strategies, and opportunities to connect with ecosystem support organizations. **Eligibility.** Open to entrepreneurs across Canada. Registration required for each tour stop. ### Startup Global Pop-up Pitch Competitions - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/startup-global-pitch-competition/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Two standalone in-person pitch competitions for entrepreneurs looking to export. Each offers a $15,000 winner's prize and a $1,000 People's Choice Award. These are separate from the National Pitch Competition and do not feed into the Grand Finale. **Details.** The Startup Global Pop-up Pitch Competitions are standalone events for entrepreneurs seeking to export outside Canada. Each competition features a $15,000 winner's prize and a $1,000 People's Choice Award. Pitches are 3 minutes verbal (no slides), followed by 3 minutes of Q&A. Judges select a top 5, who present on the mainstage with 3 minutes to pitch and 2 minutes of Q&A. Cities and dates for the 2026 Pop-up competitions have not yet been announced. In 2025, Startup Global awarded $70,000 in total cash prizes through pitch competitions in Calgary, Vancouver, Moncton, Mississauga, and online. The same eligibility criteria as the National Pitch Competition apply, with an additional requirement that pitchers must be located in the region where the event is held. **Eligibility.** Same as National Pitch Competition: intention to export within 2 years, 1+ year revenue or R&D fundraising, $50K-$1M revenue, <$1M in total investment, <8 years operating, Canada-based. Additionally, must be located in the region where the Pop-up event is held. ### Startup Global Webinars & Industry Roundtables - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/startup-global-events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Quarterly expert-led webinars and industry roundtables that help entrepreneurs scale internationally. Founders gain real-world insights on exporting, connect with industry leaders and export support organizations, and access networks and tools needed to grow globally. **Details.** Startup Global hosts 90-minute webinars and 2-hour industry roundtables focused on international business expansion. The 2026 webinar schedule includes: Navigating Inter-Provincial Trade in Canada (March 19), Building Global Relationships: Cultural Intelligence for Market Success (June 25), and Delivering Beyond Borders: Navigating Global Supply Chain and Logistics (November 5). Three industry roundtables are also planned: Healthcare (April 9), Manufacturing and CleanTech (July 30), and Consumer Packaged Goods (October 8). Past webinars on topics like export readiness, funding export journeys, international marketing, IP protection, free trade agreements, and barcodes are available as recordings. **Eligibility.** Open to entrepreneurs interested in exporting and international expansion ### Deep Dives - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Deep Dives are intensive exploration sessions that give students hands-on experience with emerging technologies and entrepreneurial concepts, organized by SURGE Innovation. **Details.** SURGE Deep Dives are focused exploration sessions where students dive into specific technology or entrepreneurship topics. These events provide hands-on experience and exposure to emerging fields. **Eligibility.** Open to Dalhousie University students and Faculty of Science community members. ### Career Panels and Professional Development Workshops - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** SURGE organizes career panels (Careers in Focus series covering Ocean, Health, Clean Energy sectors) and professional development workshops (Science Communication 101) connecting students with industry professionals. **Details.** SURGE Innovation runs career panels under the "Careers in Focus" banner, covering sectors including Ocean, Health, and Clean Energy/Environmental. Professional development workshops like Science Communication 101 complement these panels. Events connect students directly with industry professionals and provide practical career skills. **Eligibility.** Open to Dalhousie University students and Faculty of Science community members. ### Black Youth AI Hackathon - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: event - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/black-youth-ai-hackathon - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A virtual hackathon for Black university students across Canada to team up and solve real-world challenges in health, education, infrastructure, and business using AI tools, competing for $5,000 in total cash prizes with mentorship and portfolio-building opportunities. **Details.** The Black Youth AI Hackathon is a virtual hackathon designed for Black university students across Canada. Participants team up to solve real-world challenges in health, education, infrastructure, and business using AI tools. The hackathon offers $5,000 in total cash prizes, mentorship, and opportunities to build a professional portfolio. **Eligibility.** Black university students across Canada ### Youth Climate Pitch Competition (Tribe x HCi3) - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: event - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/youth-climate-pitch-competition - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A pitch competition organized by Tribe Network and the Halifax Climate Investment, Innovation and Impact Fund (HCi3) for racialized youth ages 16-30 in Nova Scotia to pitch clean energy solutions for a chance to win up to $5,000 per category across three age groups. **Details.** The Youth Climate Pitch Competition is organized by Tribe Network in partnership with HCi3 to showcase ideas and projects that contribute to advancing clean energy solutions and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The competition is open to racialized youth in Nova Scotia ages 16-30 across three categories: high school students (16-18), post-secondary students (19-23), and graduate students/young professionals (24-30). Each category offers $5,000 in prizes. Submissions must include a pitch deck (mandatory), a 2-3 minute pitch video (optional), and brief bios of team members. Pitches must address one of four GHG emission sources: electricity, transportation, buildings, or energy. Groups can include a combination of racialized and non-racialized participants but must be a minimum of 50% racialized. Three finalists per category work with mentors before presenting at a final pitch event. Post-event feedback sessions are available for non-finalists. **Eligibility.** Open to racialized youth residing in Nova Scotia (those who are Black, Indigenous, non-Caucasian in race or non-white in colour). Ages 16-30. Pitches accepted from individuals and groups up to 4 people per team. Groups must be a minimum of 50% racialized. Submissions must include a pitch deck. ### Tribe Leaders Summit - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: event - Status: intake_closed - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/programs/leaders-summit-2024 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An annual event celebrating the achievements of racialized entrepreneurs in local communities and across Canada, featuring fireside chats, panel discussions, entrepreneurial spotlights, and cultural performances. **Details.** Tribe Leaders Summit is a premier event celebrating the spirit, resiliency, and achievements of racialized entrepreneurs in local communities and across Canada. The summit provides a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies, entrepreneurial successes, and innovative solutions. The 2024 summit (November 20, 2024) featured fireside chats including with Frank Baylis, a panel on intergenerational conversation about collective history, culture and future, and a fireside chat on creating pathways for women entrepreneurs. The event targets students (16+), professionals, entrepreneurs at various stages, and investors. The summit draws up to 2,500 attendees and aims to strengthen Nova Scotia's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Free tickets available using code TRIBEGUEST. **Eligibility.** Open to students (high school and university 16+), professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors ### Tech Talk NB - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A recurring free community meetup for tech professionals hosted by Venn Innovation at The Junction in Moncton, featuring presentations, discussions, and networking. Snacks and childcare provided. **Details.** Tech Talk NB is a community meetup series organized by Venn Innovation for technology professionals, held at The Junction in Moncton. Events typically include presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Past events have included sessions on competitive intelligence, artificial intelligence (ethics, privacy, and security), and general tech community networking. Snacks, drinks, and childcare are provided. The event series also includes the annual Techtoberfest event, which features presentations, panel discussions on specific technology themes, food, and networking. **Eligibility.** Open to tech professionals and community members in Moncton, New Brunswick. Free to attend. RSVP through event registration links (Meetup.com or Venn Innovation website). ### Venn Innovation Community Events - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com/en/events - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Venn Innovation hosts a regular calendar of community events at The Junction in Moncton, including Tech the Halls (annual holiday celebration), Civic Tech Moncton (weekly meetup), Moncton Tech Hive (monthly meetup), and topical workshops and info sessions for the tech community. **Details.** Venn Innovation organizes and hosts a diverse range of community events at The Junction in Moncton. Recurring events include: Tech the Halls, an annual holiday celebration for the tech community (confirmed for December 2025 with support for the Anglophone East School District's Fill the Bus Campaign); Civic Tech Moncton, a weekly Tuesday evening meetup (6-8 PM) for newcomers, activists, and volunteers to work on technology projects for local nonprofits and community organizations; Moncton Tech Hive, a monthly meetup for tech professionals (held on Fridays 6-8 PM). Topical events documented in the crawl include: free full-day workshops on attracting investors and getting customers (March 2025), McInnes Cooper legal info session for startups (November 2024), Atlantic Fintech meetup with Canadian Trade Commissioner (November 2024), Google Developers Group free AI for business workshop (April 2024), cybersecurity unconference (November 2023), Atlantic Immigration Program information session (November 2023), Playing Lean game day for entrepreneurs (February 2024), NB MedTech Summit (September 2024), STEM/Girls in Science and Innovation Day for Grade 10-11 girls (February 2024), IDEA Centre Pitchfest for high school students (May 2024), Youth Symposium and Workshop for young newcomers (April 2024), and Black Excellence heritage celebration events (February 2024). Events typically include presentations, networking, and food/drinks. **Eligibility.** Generally open to the public with RSVP. Some events may target specific audiences (e.g., youth, newcomers, fintech companies, girls in STEM). ### AI Showcase and Mixer - Organization: Volta - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/volta-3570959959 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A monthly community event series featuring AI project showcases from startups, companies, and academic institutions, along with speakers and networking opportunities for the Atlantic Canadian AI community. **Details.** The AI Showcase and Mixer is a monthly event held at 6PM, hosted by Volta in collaboration with Tukan Das. Each month, different startups, companies, and members of academia demonstrate their AI projects. Attendees can learn from industry leaders pioneering real-world AI applications and network with professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and enthusiasts in the AI community. Those interested in presenting can contact events@voltaeffect.com. ### Volta/CDL Investment Day - Organization: Volta - Category: event - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://airtable.com/appeAPAeFakDp0zKx/pagGI3wpdrFzx8mM7/form - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Atlantic Canada's pitch event where selected startups receive personalized coaching, pitch to sector-specific venture capital funds, and secure 1:1 meetings with potential investors. Co-hosted with Creative Destruction Lab (CDL). **Details.** Volta/CDL Investment Day is a pitch event held at Volta's Halifax location where startups based in Atlantic Canada can pitch to venture capital investors. Pitching companies receive personalized coaching to prepare for investment, pitch their startup to sector-specific funds, and secure 1:1 meetings with potential investors in breakout rooms. Selection criteria include: interest in raising VC capital, based in Atlantic Canada, business model validation, financial projections, MVP or product in market, early adopter users or paying customers, brand building, market traction, a prepared pitch deck and pitch video, and fundraising history details. **Eligibility.** Must be based in Atlantic Canada; actively seeking venture capital funding; have an MVP or product in market; demonstrate business model validation and market traction; have financial projections; have a prepared pitch deck and pitch video; ideally have early adopter users or paying customers. Based in Atlantic Canada Actively seeking VC capital MVP or product in market required Pitch deck and pitch video required ### Volta Pitch Competitions - Organization: Volta - Category: event - Status: seasonal - Official page: https://www.voltaeffect.com/community/pitch-competitions - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Quarterly virtual pitch competitions for Atlantic Canadian tech and innovation community members to practice their three-minute business pitch, receive feedback from peers and industry professionals, and compete for a $500 prize. **Details.** Volta Pitch Competitions provide participants with experience pitching to investors and potential early adopters. Each competition is judged by a panel of entrepreneurs, potential investors, and community leaders based on the pitch, business idea, presentation quality, and content. Competitions are only open to residents of Atlantic Canada. An idea, product, or company may be pitched a maximum of twice, and previous winners cannot pitch the same idea/business at future competitions. The winner receives a $500 Visa gift card and has their name engraved on Volta's Pitch Competition trophy. **Eligibility.** Must be a resident of Atlantic Canada. An idea, product or company may be pitched a maximum of twice. Previous Volta Pitch Competition winners may not pitch the same idea/business at future competitions. Resident of Atlantic Canada Maximum two pitches per idea/product/company Previous winners cannot repitch same idea ### Volta Lunch & Learns - Organization: Volta - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.voltaeffect.com/community/lunch-learns - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free educational sessions covering topics key to building a startup, led by experienced advisors and industry experts. Topics include accounting, cloud services, financial strategy, product development, HR, legal, sales, marketing, funding, and more. **Details.** Volta's Lunch and Learns cover a wide range of topics that are key to building a successful startup. Experienced advisors and industry experts lead these sessions, providing guidance and insights on topics such as accounting, cloud services, financial strategy, product development, human resources, talent recruitment and retention, legal, sales, marketing, funding, and more. These sessions are designed to help founders develop the skills and knowledge they need to build and grow their businesses. The sessions are described as a free education with food provided. ### AI Mixer & Showcase - Organization: Volta - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/volta-3570959959 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Monthly community events at 6PM featuring AI showcases, speakers, and networking opportunities for the startup and tech community. **Details.** Volta hosts monthly AI Mixer & Showcase events at 6PM, described as the 'Generative AI Showcase and Mixer' on the homepage. Events feature inspiring showcases, insightful speakers, and networking opportunities. These are part of Volta's broader community programming, which also includes hackathons, workshops, curated dinners, and peer-to-peer groups as mentioned on the community page. Events are described as AI-first and founder-focused, offering practical and actionable content for AI entrepreneurs at any stage. All upcoming events are listed on Eventbrite. Volta also links to Startup Atlantic's event calendar for other startup events in Atlantic Canada. **Eligibility.** Open to the community ### Host an Event at Volta - Organization: Volta - Category: event - Status: active - Official page: https://www.voltaeffect.com/host-an-event - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Volta offers external organizers the ability to host events at their space, providing support with space, logistics, and promotion to bring founders together for meaningful conversations, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. **Details.** Volta invites community members and organizations to host events at their downtown Halifax location. Event types can include panel discussions, casual meetups, or focused roundtables. Volta provides support with space, logistics, and promotion. Interested hosts submit an event proposal through the online form with their contact information, organization, and event details. **Eligibility.** Must submit event details through the online form --- ## Category: tool (36) ### AI Playground - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/aiplayground/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** AI tools and resources available to registered students through the Centre, listed under the Resources section. **Details.** The AI Playground is a resource offered by the Centre, listed in the resources navigation. It provides students with access to AI tools as part of the Centre's programming suite. Access is gained through the Activate Your Access registration. **Eligibility.** Must have activated access through Centre registration ### Black Business Directory - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/all-listings - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** BBI maintains a directory of Black-owned businesses, providing visibility and networking opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and connecting consumers with Black-owned businesses. **Details.** BBI operates a business directory listing Black-owned businesses across various industries and locations. The directory serves as a tool for increasing visibility of Black-owned businesses and connecting them with potential customers and partners. Businesses listed in the directory span sectors including commercial services, consulting, contracting, trucking, property services, and more. **Eligibility.** Black-owned businesses. ### CEED AI Assist - Organization: CEED - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://ceed-aiassist.ceed.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An AI-powered business assistant tool available to entrepreneurs through CEED's website. **Details.** CEED AI Assist is an AI-powered tool accessible at ceed-aiassist.ceed.ca, referenced on the CEED homepage as a resource for entrepreneurs. Limited details are available from the crawled pages. ### CWB Business Directory - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://cwbbusinessdirectory.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An online business directory at cwbbusinessdirectory.ca featuring women-owned businesses in Nova Scotia, providing visibility and exposure for listed businesses. **Details.** The CWB Business Directory is a publicly accessible online directory at cwbbusinessdirectory.ca where women-owned businesses can list their profiles. It serves as a tool for promoting and supporting Nova Scotia's women in business by connecting them with potential customers and partners. **Eligibility.** For women-owned businesses; listing available through CWB membership ### Reports + Insights - Organization: COVE - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/reports-insights/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Research reports and insights providing a foundation for understanding challenges and opportunities in the marine sector, shaping Canada's talent pipeline and enterprise growth strategies. **Details.** COVE's research and reports provide a foundation for understanding the challenges and opportunities in building a thriving marine sector. COVE's insights are shaping Canada's talent pipeline and ensuring the successful growth of marine-based enterprises. ### Ask An Expert Directory - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/ask-an-expert - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A directory connecting users with experts across various domains, available through the Digital Nova Scotia website. **Details.** The Ask An Expert Directory is a publicly accessible directory on the Digital Nova Scotia website that connects users with experts. Interested experts can contact DNS to be added to the directory. **Eligibility.** Open to anyone seeking expert advice. Experts can apply to be listed. ### Job Portal - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/job-posts/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Online job portal for DNS organizational members to post unlimited tech job listings, connecting employers with talent in Nova Scotia's digital sector. **Details.** DNS organizational members have access to unlimited job postings on the job portal, connecting tech employers with talent across Nova Scotia's digital sector. **Eligibility.** DNS organizational membership required for posting. Open to all for browsing. ### Tech Market Dashboard - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/funding-resources/tech-dashboard/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A labour market dashboard providing detailed tech sector data for Nova Scotia, including workforce projections, remote work policies, and demographic data compiled from multiple sources including Statistics Canada and DNS Workforce Insights Survey. **Details.** Digital Nova Scotia's Tech Market Dashboard includes detailed tech sector labour market information for Nova Scotia. Data is gathered from numerous sources including Statistics Canada, the Nova Scotia Government, Invest Nova Scotia, the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission, NSCC, and DNS's own Workforce Insights Survey (sample size of 150 employers). The dashboard provides information on workforce projections, remote work policies, and sector demographics. **Eligibility.** Publicly accessible ### Digital Skills Assessments - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://essentialskills.digitalnovascotia.com/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Suite of three online self-assessment tools: Digital Essential Skills Assessment, Technical Skills Assessment, and Non-Technical Skills Assessment for individuals to evaluate their digital capabilities. **Details.** DNS offers three distinct online assessment tools: (1) Digital Essential Skills Assessment (essentialskills.digitalnovascotia.com), (2) Technical Skills Assessment (changingperspectives.digitalnovascotia.com), and (3) Non-Technical Skills Assessment (beyond-digital-recognition.digitalnovascotia.com). These tools help individuals evaluate their digital skills and identify areas for development. **Eligibility.** Open to anyone ### How to Pitch Your Product to Canada's Top Retailers (Guide) - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.ca/pitching-to-retailers - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A downloadable guide covering how to get retail-ready, what buyers expect regarding pricing, margins, certifications, and capacity, and how to build a strong pitch for Canada's top grocery and specialty retailers. **Details.** This downloadable guide shows food and beverage companies exactly what buyers expect, how to know if their product is retail-ready, and how to walk into a pitch with confidence. Topics covered include: what a retail pitch really is and how to treat it like a sales opportunity, how to tell if you're actually ready to pitch before wasting time or burning bridges, where to find real pitch opportunities with buyers across Canada, what buyers expect about pricing, margins, certifications, and capacity, how to build a strong pitch that sells both your product and you, and what to bring to a pitch meeting to look professional, prepared, and credible. ### FBA Industry Resources Library - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.ca/resources/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A curated collection of industry resources including government funding program links, trade agreement information, export development resources, and regulatory guidance for food and beverage companies. **Details.** FBA maintains a resource library on its website covering a range of topics relevant to food and beverage companies. Resources include links to AgriGuichet (an online search tool for federal, provincial, and territorial agricultural funding programs), Canada's free trade agreements (CUSMA, CETA, CPTPP), Export Development Canada services, federal and provincial government programs for agriculture and agri-food businesses, health and safety guidance, and transportation solutions. The resources section is available in both English and French. While some resources are historical (COVID-19 era), the funding program links and trade agreement references remain relevant. **Eligibility.** Publicly accessible on the FBA website. ### Business Plan Writer - Organization: Futurpreneur - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://bpw.futurpreneur.ca - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free, interactive online tool that guides entrepreneurs through the process of creating a customized business plan, with tips, tricks, and examples. Also available as a downloadable Focused Business Plan PDF. **Details.** The Futurpreneur Business Plan Writer is an interactive online tool designed to simplify the business planning process by allowing entrepreneurs to customize their plan. It provides tips, tricks, and examples to guide users as they write. In addition to the online tool, Futurpreneur offers the 'Focused Business Plan,' a simplified, downloadable PDF alternative that can be edited directly on a device. Futurpreneur also provides a business plan example created by Entrepreneurship Coach Dominik Loncar, with insights and rationale from reviewing hundreds of business plans. A crash course called 'Business Plan Essentials' is also available for those who have never written a business plan before. **Eligibility.** No specific eligibility requirements to access the tool. Free and open to anyone. ### Cash Flow Template - Organization: Futurpreneur - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/resource/cash-flow-template/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free cash flow template tool that helps entrepreneurs create 24-month financial forecasts, which is a required component of Futurpreneur loan applications. **Details.** Futurpreneur provides a cash flow template tool to help entrepreneurs master their cash flow and create the 24-month financial forecasts required as part of the Futurpreneur loan application. The tool is available through the Business Resource Centre alongside other financial templates and guides. **Eligibility.** No specific eligibility requirements. Free and open to anyone. ### Business Continuity Toolkit - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/business-recovery-continuity/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A toolkit helping small to medium-sized businesses prepare for disruptions and build solid plans to respond to challenges and get back on track quickly. **Details.** The Business Continuity Toolkit helps small to medium-sized businesses prepare for disruptions while navigating dynamic business landscapes. The SmartBusiness team helps businesses build a solid plan to prepare and respond to any type of challenge so they can get back on track as quickly as possible. **Eligibility.** Small to medium-sized businesses in Halifax Regional Municipality ### Business Resource Directory - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/resource-directory/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An online directory providing businesses access to a wealth of resources including funding programs, labour market programs, and R&D support to help businesses innovate and grow. **Details.** The Business Resource Directory provides Halifax businesses with access to a curated collection of resources spanning funding, labour market programs, R&D support, and other business development resources that can help businesses innovate and grow. ### Halifax Marketing Toolkits - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/halifax-marketing-toolkits/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Downloadable marketing toolkits designed to help businesses, organizations, and individuals attract new business, talent, and investment to Halifax. **Details.** Halifax Partnership provides marketing toolkits that businesses and organizations can explore and download. These resources are designed to help attract new business, talent, and investment to Halifax. ### Virtual Adviser - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/local-business-support/smartbusiness-services/virtual-adviser/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A digital tool providing virtual advisory support as part of the SmartBusiness services suite. **Details.** The Virtual Adviser is an online tool offered as part of Halifax Partnership's SmartBusiness services, providing digital advisory support to businesses. ### Fundingportal - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/incentives-programs-services/fundingportal - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Fundingportal is an online third-party tool that helps businesses navigate potentially-available government support programs and services. **Details.** Fundingportal is an online third-party tool listed on the Invest Nova Scotia platform that helps businesses navigate potentially-available government support programs and services. It covers a broad range of topics and sectors and is available to businesses of all sizes. Not administered by Invest Nova Scotia. ### Sympli Works On-Demand - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/education-training-and-workshops/sympli-works-on-demand-courses - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Sympli Works is a membership platform offering workshops and mentoring via on-demand courses and live webinars to help businesses tackle scaling, sales, HR, and marketing challenges. **Details.** Sympli Works is a membership platform offered through Invest Nova Scotia, ACOA, and Sympli Works. It provides on-demand courses and live webinars covering common business challenges such as scaling, sales, HR, and marketing. Content is available for learning at the participant's own pace. ### Incentives, Programs, and Services Eligibility Tool - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/your-eligible-incentives-programs-services - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An online questionnaire that matches businesses to eligible incentives, programs, services, and contacts at Invest Nova Scotia. **Details.** A short online multiple-choice questionnaire (approximately 3-5 minutes) that identifies incentives, programs, and services that an organization may qualify for. Also identifies contacts at Invest Nova Scotia. **Eligibility.** Open to any business ### Eligibility Assessment Tool - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/your-eligible-incentives-programs-services - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An online questionnaire that matches businesses with eligible incentives, programs, services, and contacts at Invest Nova Scotia based on their profile. **Details.** Invest Nova Scotia provides a short online multiple-choice questionnaire (approximately 3-5 minutes) that identifies incentives, programs, services, and contacts relevant to a business. The tool does not require personal or financial information to complete. It matches businesses based on topic, location, business size, and sector criteria. **Eligibility.** None; open to all ### Business Marketplace - Organization: ISANS - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/do-business/business-marketplace/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An online marketplace connecting immigrant-owned businesses with customers and opportunities in Nova Scotia. **Details.** The ISANS Business Marketplace is a platform that showcases businesses owned by ISANS clients, helping connect immigrant entrepreneurs with customers and the broader Nova Scotia business community. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered ISANS client with an active business. ### Startup Programming & Support Network Directory - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupatlantic.ca/startup-programming - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A curated online directory of startup programming, supports, and resources available across Atlantic Canada, aggregating offerings from accelerators, incubators, government agencies, and investors. Free to browse. **Details.** Startup Atlantic maintains a database of programming support for startups on its website. The directory includes programs from partner organizations across all four Atlantic provinces, categorized by various attributes including location, acceptance criteria, topics covered, cost, funding availability, timeline, and province exclusivity. The organization continuously adds to the database and invites ecosystem organizations to submit their programs for inclusion. **Eligibility.** No eligibility requirements to browse the directory. Available to any founder or entrepreneur across Atlantic Canada. ### Startup Support Programming Database - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupatlantic.ca/startup-programming - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A searchable online database of 50+ startup support organizations across Atlantic Canada, filterable by province/location and sector/topic. **Details.** The programming database is Startup Atlantic's primary offering. It allows founders to search and filter startup support organizations by geographic location (Canada-Wide, Atlantic Canada, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia) and by sector/topic (Incubator, Marine Sector, Education, Startup Hub, Accelerator, FinTech, Venture Capital, Sales, Market Validation, Product Development, Non-Dilutive Funding, and Other). Each organization listing includes its name, serving regions, scope/sector tags, a description, programs offered, and a link to the organization's own website. The database includes organizations such as ACENET, ACOA, Atlantic FinTech, Axis Accelerator, Bio Food Tech, Black Business Initiative, Bounce Health Innovation, Boundless Accelerator, Build Ventures, CASTL, CEED, CENGN, Cape Breton Capital, Catherine Callbeck Centre for Entrepreneurship, Centre for Women in Business at MSVU, COVE, Creative Destruction Lab - Atlantic, Dal Innovates, East Valley Ventures, Emera ideaHUB, Emergence, Envision Saint John, Food Island Partnership, Futurepreneur, Genesis, IGNITE Atlantic, ICTC, Invest Nova Scotia, Island Capital Partners, Island Sandbox, JEDI, Lab2Market, League of Innovators, Mashup Lab, Memorial University, Mitacs, Navigate CB, NBIF, Nova Scotia Health Innovation Hub, Ocean Startup Project, ONSIDE, PEI IT Alliance, Pelorus Venture Capital, Planet Hatch, Pond Deshpande Centre, Propel, Real Ventures, Research NB, Sandpiper Ventures, SEATAC at NSCC, Spinnaker Sales Group, Springboard Atlantic, Startup in Residence Powered by Desjardins, Tribe, UNB International Business & Entrepreneurship Centre, UNB - The Summer Institute, Upside Foundation, Venn Innovation, Verschuren Centre, Volta, and Women and Nonbinary Impact Network for Venture Capital. **Eligibility.** Open access, no registration required to browse ### Provincial Ecosystem Guides - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupatlantic.ca/programming-database-provinces/nova-scotia - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Dedicated province-specific pages providing curated overviews of the startup ecosystem and relevant support organizations for each of the four Atlantic provinces. **Details.** Startup Atlantic provides individual ecosystem guide pages for Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Each page includes a narrative overview of the province's startup ecosystem highlighting key strengths and sectors, followed by a curated list of organizations that provide startup support specifically in that province, plus a second section listing programs that operate across all of Atlantic Canada. For example, the Nova Scotia page highlights strengths in ocean tech, life sciences, and clean energy and features province-specific organizations like Volta, Tribe, Emera ideaHUB, Dal Innovates, COVE, CEED, Cape Breton Capital, Build Ventures, Invest Nova Scotia, and IGNITE Atlantic. The New Brunswick page highlights technology and cybersecurity with organizations like Venn Innovation, Planet Hatch, NBIF, Pond Deshpande Centre, UNB, and Research NB. PEI features biosciences, agriculture, and IT with Catherine Callbeck Centre, Food Island Partnership, PEI IT Alliance, Island Capital Partners, Emergence, and Bio Food Tech. Newfoundland highlights ocean technology with Genesis, Bounce Health Innovation, Pelorus Venture Capital, and Memorial University. **Eligibility.** Open access ### Business Owner's Toolbox - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://bit.ly/business-owners-toolbox-2026 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A free central online hub providing over 100 curated resources across 10 modules covering every stage of entrepreneurship, from pre-launch to exit strategy. Powered by Pizza Hut through the Equal Slice Program. **Details.** The Business Owner's Toolbox (BOT) is a comprehensive online resource hub with over 100 curated resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and scale their businesses. It contains category hubs covering every stage of entrepreneurship, from pre-launch to exit strategy, with comprehensive guides, templates, and expert insights. The toolbox is powered by Pizza Hut through the Equal Slice Program and is updated throughout the year. Access is free via sign-up. **Eligibility.** Free sign-up required ### Startup Canada Podcast - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/learn/startup-canada-podcast/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An ongoing podcast featuring interviews with entrepreneurs and ecosystem leaders across Canada, providing insights into the future of business. Hosted by Rick Spence. Over 544 episodes. **Details.** The Startup Canada Podcast features conversations with movers and shakers of Canada's entrepreneurship community, providing a glimpse into the future of business. Hosted by Rick Spence, the podcast is available on all major streaming platforms. With over 544 episodes, it covers a wide range of topics relevant to entrepreneurs at various stages. Guest applications are accepted via a Google Form. **Eligibility.** Free to listen on all streaming platforms ### Startup Women Podcast - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/learn/startup-women-podcast/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A podcast featuring interviews with women experts, entrepreneurs, and organizations to help women-identifying entrepreneurs make their vision a reality. Over 208 episodes. Guest applications are currently on pause. **Details.** The Startup Women Podcast features interviews with leading women experts, entrepreneurs, and organizations to help listeners make their vision a reality. With over 208 episodes, it is available on all major streaming platforms. The FAQ notes that guest applications are currently on pause and the program is not accepting new guest submissions. **Eligibility.** Free to listen on all streaming platforms ### Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.notion.so/startupcanada/Tariff-Toolkit-18f005bc063d801e922df37098ede6b4 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A centralized resource hosted on Notion designed to help entrepreneurs navigate tariff changes with curated news, practical tools, and relevant events. **Details.** The Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit is a centralized resource designed to help entrepreneurs navigate tariff changes with confidence. It brings together curated news, practical tools, and relevant events in one easy-to-access space, so entrepreneurs can stay informed without losing focus on building and growing their business. Hosted on Notion. **Eligibility.** Publicly accessible ### Startup Canada Newsletter - Organization: Startup Canada - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupcan.ca/join-our-list/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A weekly curated newsletter delivering upcoming events, programs, and tools for entrepreneurs directly to subscribers' inboxes. **Details.** Startup Canada curates a weekly newsletter with upcoming events, programs, and the tools entrepreneurs need for success. Subscribers can sign up for the general Startup Canada mailing list or specific program newsletters (Startup Global, Startup Women). The newsletter serves as a central communication channel keeping entrepreneurs informed of all Startup Canada activities and resources. **Eligibility.** Free email subscription ### Funding Opportunities Directory - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A curated directory of external funding programs available to student entrepreneurs and innovators, maintained by SURGE Innovation. **Details.** SURGE Innovation maintains a curated list of funding opportunities for student entrepreneurs, including grants, competitions, and external funding programs relevant to science and technology ventures. **Eligibility.** Publicly accessible resource. ### Business Model Canvas Resource - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A business model canvas tool and resource provided by SURGE Innovation to help student entrepreneurs structure and validate their business ideas. **Details.** SURGE provides a Business Model Canvas resource to help student entrepreneurs structure their venture ideas, identify key components of their business model, and prepare for pitch opportunities. **Eligibility.** Open to SURGE community members. ### Public Speaking Resource - Organization: Surge Innovation - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.surgeinnovation.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Public speaking and presentation skills resources provided by SURGE Innovation to help students develop their pitch and communication abilities. **Details.** SURGE provides public speaking resources to help students develop presentation and pitching skills, essential for entrepreneurship competitions and professional development. **Eligibility.** Open to SURGE community members. ### Online Learning Platform - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/courses/start-program - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** On-demand courses and webinars available to Tribe Network members to support personal and professional development in entrepreneurship, including the START Online Course, BUILD Online Course, and Burnout + Wellness Course. **Details.** Tribe Network offers an online learning platform with on-demand courses and webinars to help members grow both personally and professionally. Known courses include the START Online Course (free for all Black entrepreneurs, aimed at aspiring Black entrepreneurs or early-stage founders to build skills, competencies, and confidence), the BUILD Online Course (part of the Black Start-Up Project providing education and workshops tailored to Black entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada including mentors, experts-in-residence, grant writing support, and funder introductions), and the Burnout + Wellness Course (strategies for managing stress and wellness as a Black founder). Courses are beginner to intermediate level, self-paced, require no downloads, and are accessible anytime through the platform. **Eligibility.** Must be a Tribe Network member. Some courses specifically for Black entrepreneurs. ### Opportunities & Extras Directory - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.tribenetwork.ca/resources - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A curated directory of external resources, scholarships, perks, and special offers from ecosystem partners, organized by categories including grants, wage subsidies, accelerators, legal, accounting, marketing, tech credits, and more. **Details.** Tribe Network maintains a curated resource directory at tribenetwork.ca/resources listing external opportunities for members. Categories include wage subsidy, subsidy, debt, marketing, venture studio, legal, accounting, international expansion, grants, community partners, talent, angels and super angels, venture firms (VC), lab space, networking, office spaces, learning, government, accelerator or incubator, fundraising, other RIC, service provider, discounts, and tech credits. Listed resources include the Canadian Government's Business Benefits Finder, Black Founders Network, Black Business Initiative (BBI), and other third-party programs. **Eligibility.** Available to Tribe Network members ### Venn Innovation Business Resources - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: tool - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com/en/resources - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Venn Innovation provides a curated online resource reference guide with links to business templates, toolkits, and remote work resources from external partners including BDC, EDC, Deloitte, and Google. **Details.** Venn Innovation maintains a publicly accessible resources page that curates external business tools and templates. The page includes: a Quick Resource Reference Guide with links to BDC business continuity toolkits and templates, ESDC employment insurance and labour program information, EDC resources for Canadian exporters, and Deloitte resources on supply chain risk, cash flow management, and workforce strategies. Downloadable resources section links to BDC templates for SWOT analysis, marketing plans, business plans, cash flow projections for tech companies, pitch decks, balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements, financial statements, e-commerce financial models, employee goal-setting, social media calendars, and sales proposals. A remote work resources section links to tools from Beauceron Security, Notion, Range, Zapier, Vidyard, and Google. **Eligibility.** Publicly accessible to anyone visiting the Venn Innovation website. --- ## Category: credential (5) ### Access Ability Entrepreneurial Mindset Certificate (EMC) Program - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: credential - Status: active - Official page: https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aeEaj6yrAXQ15Vs - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Paid training program for individuals living with disabilities in Atlantic Canada, offering 18 workshop sessions on entrepreneurial and career skills. Participants earn $50 per session attended (up to $900) and receive a certificate upon completing 12 sessions. **Details.** The EMC Program provides workshops through guest speakers on topics including Entrepreneurial & Career Cycle, Digital Skills, Interview and Resume Building, Networking & Elevator Pitch, Resilience as an Entrepreneur, and Why Lifelong Learning Matters. Sessions run Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for 2 hours each. Participants complete 12 of 18 sessions to receive the certificate and a bonus. Payment of $50 per session is made via mailed cheque six weeks after completion. **Eligibility.** Eligible to work in Canada; resident of Atlantic Canada; self-identifies as living with a disability ### CDL Pedagogy Program - Organization: Creative Destruction Lab - Category: credential - Status: active - Official page: https://creativedestructionlab.com/program/pedagogy/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An experiential education program embedded within CDL's partner universities that provides MBA and graduate students hands-on experience supporting CDL ventures, including developing financial models, evaluating markets, and fine-tuning scaling strategies. **Details.** Pedagogy is a core pillar of CDL, providing graduate students and high school students with hands-on experience in innovation and entrepreneurship. The program was originally established in 2013/14 as a course for MBA students at the Rotman School of Management and has since expanded to Rotman Commerce and other MBA programs. Students gain experiential education by working directly with companies enrolled in the CDL program, supporting ventures with tasks including developing financial models, evaluating potential markets, and fine-tuning strategies for scaling. Each CDL site operates through a respective post-secondary institution, with academics providing insights on economic impact of new technologies. **Eligibility.** Students enrolled at CDL-affiliated post-secondary institutions, particularly MBA and graduate programs. ### Microcredential Program: Practical Utilization of AI - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: credential - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/microcredential-program-practical-utilization-of-ai/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Microcredential program in collaboration with StFX focusing on practical AI utilization, offered in two streams: AI for IT/Programming/Development and AI for Marketing/Communications. Limited to 30 participants per stream. **Details.** Developed with St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) and funded by ACOA, this program offers two streams. The IT/Programming/Development stream teaches participants to fine-tune LLMs, integrate AI into applications, and create end-to-end pipelines. The Marketing/Communications stream covers using AI for campaigns, content creation, customer insights, and data-driven marketing strategies. Each stream accepts up to 30 participants. **Eligibility.** Applications reviewed; limited to 30 participants per stream. ### PMP Certification Prep Training - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: credential - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/programs/project-management-professional-pmp-prep-training/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Instructor-led course providing PMP training hours and exam preparation, guided by PMI-approved instructors. **Details.** This instructor-led course helps participants get the PMP (Project Management Professional) training hours and preparation needed before taking the certification exam. PMI-approved instructors guide participants through key concepts to ensure success. ### Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia - Category: credential - Status: active - Official page: https://investnovascotia.ca/education-training-and-workshops/certified-international-trade-professional-citp - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The CITP is the highest level of professional accreditation for international business and trade professionals in Canada, offered through FITT in partnership with Invest Nova Scotia. **Details.** The Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation is offered through the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) in partnership with Invest Nova Scotia. It is the only national professional designation recognizing an individual's experience in international trade and is the highest level of professional accreditation for international business and trade professionals in Canada. **Eligibility.** International trade experience required; specific criteria set by FITT --- ## Category: mentorship (8) ### Elevate Mentorship Program - Organization: CEED - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=1LTZrllL5kOLurbWrUCrM2eOLfauy6hKtx0x7jnZ67ZUQjRTSU41UjZXU1dUV1RJN0paODJPT1BQNC4u - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A structured 6-12 month mentorship program matching experienced Nova Scotian business professionals with CEED alumni and program participants. Includes training through MindFrame Connect and ongoing CEED support. **Details.** The CEED Elevate Mentorship Program connects experienced Nova Scotian business owners and professionals with entrepreneurs from the CEED community (clients, members, and program participants). The program builds dynamic mentor-mentee relationships in a safe, supportive space for peer-to-peer learning, honest dialogue, and constructive challenge. Mentors are expected to bring active listening, availability, and analysis skills. The program structure spans 6-12 months with meetings held monthly or as agreed. CEED provides onboarding, check-ins, and a program manager to support both parties. Mentors complete required training through MindFrame Connect to set shared expectations. Matching is based on goals, experience, communication preferences, and fit. **Eligibility.** Mentees must be part of CEED's alumni network or currently completing a CEED program. Mentors must be experienced business owners or professionals in Nova Scotia. ### Mentor Network - Organization: COVE - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/accelerator-programs/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A mentor network connecting experienced entrepreneurs, defence professionals, investors, and technical specialists with marine and dual-use technology companies participating in COVE's programs. **Details.** COVE is expanding its programs and looking for experienced mentors to support innovative companies. The mentor network includes entrepreneurs, business leaders, defence and security professionals, climate and renewable energy experts, investors, advisors, ecosystem builders, and technical specialists in AI, energy, autonomy, sensors, materials, maritime and more. Mentors guide innovators across both defence and non-defence programs, with commitment levels ranging from 1-3 hours per month (monthly meetings) to 5-10 hours per month (weekly meetings or multiple mentees). Programs cover innovation from seabed to space across multiple domains. **Eligibility.** For mentors: experienced professionals with expertise in relevant domains. For mentees: companies participating in COVE programs. ### Experts in Residence / Venture Coaching - Organization: Dal IDEA Hub - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://dalideahub.ca/about/our-team/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** One-on-one venture coaching and expert advisory provided by the Emera ideaHUB's Experts in Residence, covering engineering, business strategy, marketing, industrial design, and AI/technology domains. **Details.** The Emera ideaHUB provides access to Experts in Residence who offer just-in-time support to founders across multiple disciplines. Venture Coaches (Dr. David C. Roach, Franziska Brol, Ben Bschaden, Hossein Salimian) support venture strategy, risk identification, customer discovery, fundraising, manufacturing planning, and product launch. An Engineer in Residence (Rhodri Armour, PhD, P.Eng.) provides technical leadership and strategic clarity from concept to commercialization across life sciences, renewable energy, wearable technology, and more. An Industrial Designer-in-Residence (Dr. Glen Hougan) supports user research, form exploration, prototype development, and design strategy. A Marketing Expert in Residence (Sean Williams) provides workshops and office hours on brand promise and early-stage marketing. This support is provided to ideaBUILD and ideaBRIDGE participants. **Eligibility.** Must be enrolled in ideaBUILD or ideaBRIDGE programs at the Emera ideaHUB. ### Volunteer Mentorship Program - Organization: Futurpreneur - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://route.futurpreneur.ca/Pages/en-ca/MentorRegistration.aspx - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Futurpreneur's volunteer mentor program recruits experienced entrepreneurs (5+ years) and professionals (10+ years) to provide one-on-one mentorship to young entrepreneurs for up to two years, with comprehensive training, onboarding, and ongoing support provided to mentors. **Details.** Futurpreneur recruits and onboards volunteer mentors who commit to a two-year mentoring relationship with a young entrepreneur (ages 18-39). Eligible mentors include experienced entrepreneurs with at least 5 years of entrepreneurial experience or professionals with at least 10 years of experience in launching and leading significant products or services. Mentors must reside in Canada, have knowledge of the Canadian business landscape, have no conflicts of interest with their mentee, and share Futurpreneur's values. Mentors receive comprehensive support including official onboarding with video and training materials, a custom-designed 'Ment2B' mentoring orientation program, regular mentor webinars, a LinkedIn mentor community, active check-ins from the Mentor Support Team, digital 'Staying-on-track & Canvas' tools, and dedicated in-house support. The time commitment is 2-4 hours per month. Futurpreneur has over 2,200 volunteer mentors as of March 31, 2025. **Eligibility.** For experienced entrepreneurs: at least 5 years of entrepreneurial experience, Canadian startup ecosystem knowledge, no conflicts of interest with the mentee, residency in Canada, alignment with Futurpreneur values. For experienced professionals: at least 10 years of experience in launching and leading significant products or services, Canadian business landscape knowledge, no conflicts of interest, residency in Canada, alignment with Futurpreneur values. ### Rural Mentor Network - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/upcoming-events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Rural Mentor Network, powered by IGNITE Atlantic, connects experienced retired and semi-retired professionals (55+) with entrepreneurs, youth, and community members across rural Nova Scotia. The program includes speed mentoring sessions, recruitment socials, and information sessions. **Details.** The Rural Mentor Network is an IGNITE Atlantic program that brings together experienced mentors (retired and semi-retired individuals with diverse career backgrounds) and motivated mentees to inspire growth across Nova Scotia's rural regions. Mentors volunteer their time to leverage their knowledge as a community resource. The program includes Speed Mentoring Sessions (fast-paced one-on-one discussions with up to 10 mentee spots per session), social events for mentor recruitment and community building, and information sessions in various communities. Activities are held at IGNITE locations in New Glasgow and Yarmouth, as well as in community venues such as Cheticamp (hosted in partnership with Connector Program, CDENE, and the County of Inverness). The network aims to connect local knowledge with fresh ideas to strengthen communities, industries, and future leaders. Mentees can gain perspective on career goals and business challenges, develop soft skills (communication, leadership, problem-solving), and hear real-life stories from decades of professional experience. **Eligibility.** Mentors: retired or near-retired individuals, 55+. Mentees: IGNITE clients, tenants, and community members seeking career or business guidance. Speed mentoring sessions limited to 10 spots on a first-come, first-served basis. ### Business Mentorship Program - Organization: ISANS - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://isans.ca/sign-up-to-become-an-isans-client/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Connects immigrant entrepreneurs with experienced business owners and professionals across Nova Scotia for guidance, encouragement, and insights on the local business landscape. **Details.** The Business Mentorship Program at ISANS connects immigrant entrepreneurs with experienced business owners and professionals across Nova Scotia. Mentors share their experience to help newcomers develop their businesses, build confidence and make meaningful connections within professional networks. Mentorship support may include finances and operations, human resources, importing and exporting, sales and marketing, product development, and other areas based on specific business needs. **Eligibility.** Must be a registered ISANS client. Immigration Status: Canadian Citizen Born outside Canada, International Graduate, Permanent Resident, Temporary Foreign Worker. ### Mentorship and Fireside Chats - Organization: Propel - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://www.propelict.com/apply - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Propel provides virtual mentorship chats and councils connecting founders with global industry thinkers and practitioners. The program also includes fireside chats with speakers from around the world who share insights during the accelerator programming. **Details.** As part of Propel's virtual programming, founders gain access to mentorship opportunities and fireside chats. Propel's network includes a board of directors with venture capital, technology, and industry expertise, as well as global investor contacts, regional and national industry partners, and alumni. Mentorship chats and councils bring experienced practitioners directly to startup founders. Fireside chats feature speakers from around the globe providing insights relevant to the startup journey. These networking events help founders make the right connections at the right time to grow their business. **Eligibility.** Must be participating in a Propel accelerator program. Must be enrolled in a Propel program ### Mentorship & Office Hours - Organization: Volta - Category: mentorship - Status: active - Official page: https://www.voltaeffect.com/become-a-mentor - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Volta connects founders with experienced mentors who share practical lessons and perspectives without long-term obligations. Community members also have access to office hours with Volta's trusted team of experts. **Details.** Volta's mentorship offering connects founders with mentors who have relevant experience. The 'Become a Mentor' page solicits mentors to share their experience, practical lessons, and perspective without long-term obligations. Mentors provide insights on their own terms to ideal candidates for their support. Additionally, coworking members (at minimum Focus tier) have access to community office hours with Volta's trusted team of experts, providing structured advisory access. **Eligibility.** Office hours available to coworking members; mentorship connections available through community engagement --- ## Category: networking (26) ### Resources and Networking - Organization: Black Business Initiative - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://www.bbi.ca/all-listings - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** BBI provides access to knowledge, tools, networking opportunities, and a Black business directory to help Black businesses grow and connect within the broader business community. **Details.** BBI provides access to knowledge, tools, and networking opportunities to help Black businesses grow. This includes a Black business directory (listing client businesses by industry and service), B2B Magazine, blog content, a spotlight series featuring entrepreneur success stories, and networking events. BBI also facilitates connections with ecosystem partners including BDC, RBC, NSBI, Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Dalhousie University, and Saint Mary's University. **Eligibility.** Open to Black business owners and entrepreneurs ### CEED Alumni - Organization: CEED - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://www.ceed.ca/ceed-alumni/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Alumni directory. **Details.** Directory and promotion for CEED alumni. **Eligibility.** CEED alumni. ### The Hub NS - Organization: CEED - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://thehubns.ca/start - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Nova Scotia's online business community platform providing connections, conversations, and learning for entrepreneurs. **Details.** The Hub NS is an online business community platform operated by CEED, providing Nova Scotian entrepreneurs with a space for connections, conversations, and learning. It serves as a digital gathering place for the entrepreneurial community and includes blog content and latest news. **Eligibility.** Open to all Nova Scotia entrepreneurs ### Coffee Talk - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca/learning/coffee-talk/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A weekly networking session for women entrepreneurs at all stages from pre-startup through growing (excluding high-growth). Provides a regular opportunity for connection, peer support, and community building. **Details.** Coffee Talk is a recurring weekly networking opportunity for CWB's community of women entrepreneurs. It is positioned on the spectrum of services as available to pre-startup, startup, sustaining, and growing-stage entrepreneurs. **Eligibility.** Open to women-identifying entrepreneurs ### CWB Membership - Organization: Centre for Women in Business - Category: networking - Status: unknown - Official page: https://app.simplycast.ca/?q=forms/take&i=683dc971aa83c9.35703536 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** CWB membership program providing benefits including free Blueprint for Success access, business directory listing, Facebook group, event discounts, certificate training programs, news/event promotion, and corporate discount codes. Currently on a strategic pause for new memberships while CWB reimagines its community engagement model. **Details.** As part of a broader strategic planning process, CWB has taken a temporary pause on its membership program. Current members retain all benefits for the duration of their one-year term. New members are invited to access other programs, events, and services in the interim. CWB is conducting focus groups and surveys to shape the future of the program. Membership benefits include: free Blueprint for Success program access, business directory listing on cwbbusinessdirectory.ca, members-only Facebook group, special pricing and advance notification for events and training, complimentary certificate training programs, profile opportunities across communications channels, news and event promotion (combined audience of 22,000+), and exclusive discount codes with AVIS, Budget, MSVU conference services, FlagShip, and Staples. **Eligibility.** Open to women-identifying business owners (currently paused for new memberships) ### Atlantic Northeast Marine Innovation Corridor - Organization: COVE - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/programs/atlantic-northeast-marine-innovation-corridor/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A cross-border ecosystem of collaboration connecting New England states to the Maritime provinces, bringing together collective strengths from both regions for marine innovation. **Details.** The Atlantic Northeast Marine Innovation Corridor creates an ecosystem of cross-border collaboration from New England states to the Maritime provinces, bringing together the collective strengths from both regions for marine technology innovation and development. ### International Partnerships (Rostock + Norway MOU) - Organization: COVE - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/programs/mou-with-rostock-norway/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Partnerships with ocean technology organizations in Norway and Germany (Rostock) for sharing global sector expertise, co-developing new technologies, and enabling international market access. **Details.** The partnership brings together leading ocean technology organizations in Canada, Norway, and Germany to deepen global sector expertise through the sharing of ideas for new technology creation and international collaboration in ocean technology development. ### COVE Community Network - Organization: COVE - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://coveocean.com/contact/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A collaborative community of 50+ member organizations spanning marine technology companies, defence contractors, research institutes, government agencies, and post-secondary institutions, providing networking, collaboration, and partnership opportunities. **Details.** COVE maintains a community of 50+ member organizations including marine technology companies (Kraken Robotics, Open Ocean Robotics, SEAMOR Marine, Cellula Robotics), defence companies (General Dynamics, Thales Canada, SAAB, DTC), research organizations (CEOTR, Dalhousie University, CMAR), government agencies (ACOA, Invest Nova Scotia), and multinationals (Fugro, Lloyd's Register, Kongsberg Discovery, Norbit). Members benefit from ecosystem access, networking, collaboration, and visibility through the community directory and featured company spotlights. Recent additions include Fugro, Zelim, and General Dynamics. **Eligibility.** Marine technology companies, research institutes, government agencies, and organizations aligned with the marine sector ### CDL Partners Program - Organization: Creative Destruction Lab - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://creativedestructionlab.com/partners-program/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A corporate partnership program that provides organizations with curated access to CDL's ecosystem of early-stage startups, mentors, scientists, and alumni for engagement through pilots, investment, acquisition, and educational opportunities on emerging technology trends. **Details.** The CDL Partners Program helps organizations bridge the gap with the global startup community. Partners gain curated opportunities to engage early-stage startups through pilots, investment, or acquisition. The program provides cutting-edge insight from a global network of technical experts and thought leaders, and includes exclusive educational opportunities through CDL conferences. CDL works closely with partners to tailor a custom partnership focused on specific corporate goals, matching organizations with startups in relevant industries. Selected partners include Barclays, CCRM, Canadian Cancer Society, Microsoft, General Motors, Amazon Web Services, and Novartis. **Eligibility.** Open to corporations and organizations seeking to engage with the startup ecosystem and emerging technology ventures. ### CDL Community - Organization: Creative Destruction Lab - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://community.creativedestructionlab.com/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** An online community platform for CDL stakeholders including founders, mentors, alumni, and partners to maintain connections and facilitate ongoing engagement beyond the formal program sessions. **Details.** CDL operates an online community platform at community.creativedestructionlab.com accessible to CDL stakeholders. The platform serves as a hub for ongoing connection among the CDL network of entrepreneurs, investors, scientists, and partners beyond the formal program sessions. **Eligibility.** CDL participants, alumni, mentors, and partners with login credentials. ### Digital Nova Scotia Membership - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/membership/#membership-levels - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Tiered membership program for organizations and individuals in Nova Scotia's tech sector, providing access to networking events, training programs, job portal, member directory, promotions, insurance benefits, and advocacy. **Details.** DNS offers multiple membership tiers: Entrepreneur Business ($333.50+HST/yr for 1-9 employees), Small-Medium Business ($598+HST/yr for 10-99 employees), Enterprise Business ($1,058+HST/yr for 100+ employees), Agency ($661.25+HST/yr for post-secondary, non-profits, government), Service Provider ($661.25+HST/yr), Professional Individual ($103.50+HST/yr), and Introductory (free, limited access for students and graduates). Organizational members get access to job portal, member directory listing, executive-only events, Next Level Skills Programs, DNS Health Plan, newsletter promotions, and member marketplace. **Eligibility.** Open to tech companies, post-secondary institutions, non-profits, government, service providers, and individual professionals in the digital economy. ### Member-to-Member Marketplace - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/member-to-member-marketplace/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A virtual marketplace exclusively for DNS members to promote services, special offerings, and discounts to other members, encouraging collaboration and member-to-member business. **Details.** The Member-to-Member Marketplace is a platform for DNS members to promote their services or special offerings to other members. Accessible only to other members, it provides opportunities to create and enhance relationships with tech companies across Nova Scotia, increase market reach, and connect with potential clients. Available to organizational members. **Eligibility.** Must be a Digital Nova Scotia organizational member. DNS organizational membership required ### FBA Membership - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.ca/join/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** FBA membership provides food and beverage processors, producers, and manufacturers with access to exclusive member resources, direct access to retailers, funding opportunities, training at preferred rates, discounted rates with industry suppliers, product visibility opportunities, and networking with industry leaders. **Details.** An FBA membership provides food and beverage processors, producers and manufacturers many opportunities to help their businesses grow. Benefits include access to exclusive member resources, direct access to retailers, funding opportunities, training at a preferred rate, discounted rates with industry suppliers and members, unique opportunities for product visibility, and the ability to network and connect with industry leaders. Membership also provides connection to national events through Food and Beverage Canada. Multiple tiers exist: a non-processor (Industry) Level D membership is available at $500.00 per year. Processor-level pricing tiers are not disclosed in the crawled content. Testimonials describe the membership as 'a must-have membership for anyone in the Food & Beverage sector' offering 'training and mentorship, funding support, service discounts and networking opportunities.' **Eligibility.** Open to food and beverage companies in Atlantic Canada. Non-processor industry membership also available for industry stakeholders who are not food processors. ### MiXR Platform - Organization: Food & Beverage Atlantic - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://atlanticfood.ca/mixr/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** MiXR is an online platform designed to help Canada's food and beverage stakeholders connect, collaborate, and create, supporting a strong and resilient food and beverage ecosystem. **Details.** MiXR is described as an intuitive platform designed to help Canada's food and beverage stakeholders connect, collaborate and create. Branded as 'Where Canada's Food and Beverage Companies Come Together,' the platform aims to help build and strengthen the food and beverage community. FBA emphasizes that mutual collaboration leads to shared success. The platform is positioned to support a strong, resilient and growing food and beverage ecosystem for years to come. Businesses can add their listing to the platform. **Eligibility.** Open to Canada's food and beverage stakeholders. ### Halifax Connector Program - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/build-your-career/halifax-connector-program/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Award-winning networking program that matches new immigrants, recent graduates, and international graduates with established Halifax business and community leaders (Connectors) to help them build professional networks and improve employment prospects. **Details.** The Connector Program, presented by RBC and funded by IRCC, matches newcomers and recent post-secondary graduates (Connectees) with established business and community leaders (Connectors) in Halifax. The program operates in three steps: Match (staff assesses Connectees and matches them with a Connector based on industry and background), Connect (a 30-minute meeting online, by phone, or in-person to discuss industry trends, skills, market demands, and hidden job opportunities), and Refer (Connectors refer the Connectee to a minimum of three people in their network). In 2022-23, 46% of Connectees found jobs in their field. To date, the program has engaged over 1,693 Connectors, 5,187 Connectees, and helped 2,226+ find jobs. The program excludes the following sectors: Retail, Restaurant, Hospitality, Call Center, Warehouse/Labour, Healthcare, Logistics/Procurement, O&G Engineering, Chemical Engineering. **Eligibility.** Immigrants: completed at least one year of post-secondary education, hold a valid work permit, immigrated to Canada within the last five years, currently living in Halifax, sufficient English or French language capability, currently unemployed or underemployed. Local Graduates: recently completed or within 6 months of completing post-secondary education, less than 3 years work experience, currently living in Halifax, unemployed or underemployed. International Graduates: recently completed or within 6 months of completing post-secondary education, hold a valid work permit for Nova Scotia, currently living in Halifax, sufficient English language capability, unemployed or underemployed. ### Investor Partnership Program - Organization: Halifax Partnership - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://halifaxpartnership.com/about-us/our-investors/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A membership program for businesses and organizations to invest in Halifax's economic development, with levels ranging from Supporting ($5,000+) to Directing ($20,000+), providing benefits including strategic introductions, economic intelligence, and recognition. **Details.** The Investor Partnership Program allows businesses and organizations to join 100+ private, public, and post-secondary leaders committed to building a thriving, prosperous Halifax. Investment levels range from Supporting ($5,000+) to Directing ($20,000+). Benefits include: direct input into economic priorities and programs; SmartBusiness diagnostic survey; subscription to monthly Investor Newsletter; facilitated introductions to other investors and senior-level decision makers; invitation to Connector Program Speed Interviewing Sessions; company profile on HalifaxPartnership.com; social media promotion (23k+ reach); and priority support through talent and recruitment programs (Connector Program, Experiential Learning Initiative, Atlantic Immigration Program). **Eligibility.** Open to private, public, and post-secondary organizations ### Networking Events - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/upcoming-events/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** IGNITE Atlantic organizes recurring networking events including Business Buzz Speed Networking sessions, Spark Tank (reverse pitch events), and AI Mixer & Showcase events, connecting entrepreneurs, business owners, and business support organizations. **Details.** IGNITE Atlantic hosts a variety of networking events across rural Nova Scotia. Business Buzz Speed Networking events are fast-paced speed networking sessions held in partnership with the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce and the Chambers Plan, designed to spark connections among local professionals over coffee. Spark Tank is a reverse pitch competition where business support organizations (including Pictou County Chamber of Commerce, Pictou County Partnership, IGNITE, CBDC NOBL, Invest Nova Scotia, ACOA, Coastal NS, BDC, and Province of Nova Scotia) each have 3 minutes to pitch their programs and services in a Dragon's Den-style format, followed by open networking. AI Mixer & Showcase events, co-hosted with Volta, connect tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and AI enthusiasts, featuring guest speakers (e.g., Wayne Miller of BrainThrive). Vibe Coding sessions with Volta allow participants to use AI tools to turn natural language prompts into working prototypes, with no prior coding experience needed. **Eligibility.** Open to the public. Registration via Eventbrite typically required. ### Local Network and Partner Access - Organization: LaunchPad PEI - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://launchpadpei.com/about-launchpad/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** LaunchPad PEI provides clients with access to its established network of partner organizations including post-secondary institutions (UPEI, Holland College), settlement services (IRSA PEI), industry associations (Chambers of Commerce), and government entities, built over more than 20 years of operation since 2002. **Details.** LaunchPad PEI has operated in Prince Edward Island since 2002 and has established networking opportunities and partnerships with other entrepreneurially focused organizations in PEI. These partnerships include links to post-secondary education at UPEI and Holland College, business support organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, and organizations that assist new Canadians such as the Immigrant and Refugee Services Association PEI. One of the advantages of establishing a business in PEI is the level of cooperation between the three levels of government (municipal, provincial, and federal). LaunchPad PEI has working knowledge of available support and connections within each government department. Corporate partners Invesco and Hockeystick also provide resources to the network. **Eligibility.** Must be an accepted LaunchPad PEI client. ### Hatch Connect - Organization: Planet Hatch - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982298285534?aff=oddtdtcreator - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Networking event for entrepreneurs to forge connections with peers and explore partnerships, featuring 2-minute startup pitches from three entrepreneurs. **Details.** Hatch Connect is an exclusive networking event designed for entrepreneurs to build connections with peers and explore partnerships within Planet Hatch's ecosystem, aimed at bolstering business growth. Each event features three entrepreneurs delivering 2-minute pitches about their latest ventures, providing attendees a glimpse into innovative community projects. ### Propel Founder Community and Alumni Network - Organization: Propel - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://www.propelict.com/ecosystem/sign-up - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Propel offers a community network of active and alumni startup companies. The ecosystem includes group meetups, lunch and learns, Founder Real Talk sessions, and an online ecosystem directory where members can connect. **Details.** Joining Propel means becoming part of the entire Propel community, which includes active companies and over 350 alumni. The community is described as supportive and collaborative, with regular group meetups, fireside chats, lunch and learns, and Founder Real Talk sessions. Propel also maintains an online ecosystem directory where startups, mentors, coaches, investors, and organizations can create profiles and connect. The ecosystem directory allows members to sign up for free and browse other members. **Eligibility.** Community access is part of Propel program participation. The ecosystem directory may be open for broader sign-up. ### Propel Alumni Community & Network - Organization: Propel - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://www.propelict.com/apply - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Propel maintains an active alumni community and network that includes over 400 companies that have gone through the accelerator. The community provides ongoing peer support, networking, group meetups, fireside chats, lunch and learns, and Founder Real Talk sessions. The broader Propel network includes board members, global investor contacts, regional and national industry partners, and alumni. **Details.** Joining Propel means becoming part of the entire Propel community, which includes active participants and alumni companies. The community hosts weekly group meetups, fireside chats with global speakers, lunch and learns, and Founder Real Talk sessions. Propel's network includes a board of directors with connections to venture capital (Woven Capital, AltaML), legal (Stewart McKelvey), ocean technology (Canada's Ocean Supercluster), and other sectors. Investment partners include BDC, Innovacorp, and NBIF. Community partners include Digital Nova Scotia, Navigate Startup House, Planet Hatch, Startup Zone, Venn Innovation, and Volta. The alumni network spans more than 400 companies that have gone through Propel since 2003. **Eligibility.** Must be a current or past participant in Propel's accelerator programs ### Springboard Atlantic Newsletter - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://springboardatlantic.ca/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Email newsletter providing updates on Springboard Atlantic activities, research commercialization stories, and innovation ecosystem news in Atlantic Canada. **Details.** Springboard Atlantic offers a newsletter signup form on every page of its website. The newsletter provides updates on the organization's activities, research commercialization success stories, program announcements, and innovation ecosystem news across Atlantic Canada. The website also features an 'Our Stories' section with regular news articles about network member activities, funding announcements, and commercialization successes. **Eligibility.** Open to anyone with an email address ### Startup Atlantic Network & Mailing List - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: http://eepurl.com/iOnAVA - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A mailing list and network membership that connects founders, ecosystem builders, and organizations across Atlantic Canada with updates, news, and community information. **Details.** Startup Atlantic offers a mailing list subscription and network membership that provides regular updates about the Atlantic Canadian startup ecosystem. This includes news, event announcements, and ecosystem updates delivered to subscribers. The network connects founders with ecosystem builders, accelerators, incubators, government agencies, and investors. Subscription is promoted across all pages of the Startup Atlantic website and through a dedicated signup link. **Eligibility.** Open to anyone interested in the Atlantic Canadian startup ecosystem ### Tribe Network Membership - Organization: Tribe Network - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://community.tribenetwork.ca/account/signup - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free membership in a community of racialized people pursuing entrepreneurship and innovation in Canada, providing access to mentorship, coaching, workshops, online learning, referrals, grants, and networking opportunities. **Details.** Tribe Network membership provides direct access to community, coaching, and capital. Members receive mentorship and coaching from professionals and fellow entrepreneurs with lived experience, attend expert-led workshops, access an online learning platform with on-demand courses and webinars, receive referrals to ecosystem partners, and gain access to upfront grant funding opportunities. Members can also participate in business and innovation showcases, industry events, panelist talks, leadership summits, founders meetups, and pitch competitions. Consultant Advisory Services (CAS) Grants provide funding for consultancy services to help business owners grow and scale. The membership also includes access to export and international market expansion opportunities through connections to trade missions, international business expos, and strategic partnerships. Upcoming features include curated Tribe communities, co-working space access, event posting, Tribe Marketplace for selling products/services, and event browsing and sign-up. **Eligibility.** Open to racialized people pursuing entrepreneurship or innovation ### Venn Innovation Membership - Organization: Venn Innovation - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://www.venninnovation.com/en/membership-venn - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Venn Innovation offers an annual membership program for technology companies that provides access to networking events, workshops, talent pipeline connections, mentors and advisors, and CTN TechLife Benefits insurance program. **Details.** Venn Innovation membership provides technology companies with access to information, support, and connections needed to get to market. The organization positions itself as a connection to the local tech community, a navigator for the innovation ecosystem, and an advocate for member interests. Benefits include: networking through 20+ events per year; professional development through workshops and seminars tailored to technology companies and participation in peer groups, with free or reduced fee registration for members and their employees; talent connections through pipeline programs; access to mentors and advisors with relevant experience through local, national, and international networks; and exclusive employee benefits and insurance through the CTN TechLife Benefits program. Membership is tiered by company size with annual pricing from $200 to $650. **Eligibility.** Open to technology companies. Membership form must be completed and terms and conditions accepted. ### Volta Builder Network - Organization: Volta - Category: networking - Status: active - Official page: https://builders.voltaeffect.com - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A growing network connecting AI specialists, developers, startup founders, organizational builders, and independent builders for peer learning, deal flow, mentorship, and collaboration. **Details.** The Volta Builder Network serves three distinct audiences: (1) Startup Founders who can find co-founders, mentors, early customers, and a network that opens doors to scale fast while staying rooted; (2) Organizational Builders who drive AI adoption within their organizations, connect with peers, gain external validation, and demonstrate impact in language leadership trusts; (3) Independent Builders who grow their practice through deal flow, peer connections, and a reputation that compounds. The network is positioned as the place where people building measurable value with AI connect, learn, and grow. **Eligibility.** AI specialists, developers, startup founders, organizational builders, or independent builders --- ## Category: other (6) ### Activate Your Access (Student Registration) - Organization: Arthur Irving Entrepreneurship Centre - Category: other - Status: active - Official page: https://forms.office.com/r/xckwqcRYFL - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Free registration that grants students access to all Centre programming, funding opportunities, tools, mentorship, and AI resources. **Details.** Activate Your Access is the first step for students to engage with the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. By registering, students gain access to all programming, funding opportunities, tools, mentorship, and resources including the AI Playground. The Centre positions this as the gateway to its entire suite of offerings. **Eligibility.** Students at Saint Mary's University or partner institutions ### Newsletter Advertising - Organization: Digital Nova Scotia - Category: other - Status: active - Official page: https://digitalnovascotia.com/contact/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Paid advertising opportunities in DNS's weekly e-newsletter, which reaches over 8,700+ subscribers. Available to paid-level members only. **Details.** Digital Nova Scotia's weekly e-newsletter features DNS and industry events, membership news, and current open positions. It reaches over 8,700+ subscribers. Paid-level members can purchase ads at $150 per ad or $400 for 3 ads. **Eligibility.** Available to paid-level DNS members only. Paid DNS membership required ### Ignited Podcast - Organization: IGNITE Atlantic - Category: other - Status: active - Official page: https://igniteatlantic.com/podcast/ - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** The Ignited podcast by IGNITE Atlantic features interviews with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community builders in rural Nova Scotia, sharing stories, insights, and experiences about innovation and building businesses in small towns. **Details.** The Ignited podcast (full title: 'Ignited - Lighting a Fire for Entrepreneurs, Innovation and Community') dives into the heart of rural innovation, spotlighting stories, ideas, and the people driving change in rural communities across Nova Scotia. Each episode features conversations with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and community builders sharing insights, challenges, and solutions. A documented episode features Josh Counsil, co-founder of Good Robot Brewing, discussing founding the brewery, marketing strategies, community building, co-packing, sustainability challenges, and advice for entrepreneurs. Episodes are approximately 50 minutes in length. **Eligibility.** Open to all listeners. Available online. ### Founder Journeys Podcast - Organization: Propel - Category: other - Status: active - Official page: https://www.propelict.com/about-us/our-podcast - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** Founder Journeys is Propel's podcast where the host speaks with entrepreneurs about their founder journeys, including what led them to become founders, what kept them going through challenges, their greatest failures, and practical insights. Episodes feature Propel alumni, venture capitalists, and global startup leaders. **Details.** Founder Journeys is a podcast produced by Propel, hosted by Kathryn Lockhart (former CEO of Propel). Episodes feature conversations with entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and business leaders covering topics such as entrepreneurship challenges, fundraising, building teams, AI governance, scaling strategies, and founder mindset. Guests have included Nicole LeBlanc (Partner at Woven Capital), Sean Power (CEO of SOMMS.AI), Annette Verschuren (CEO of NRStor), Max Menke (Co-founder of GrowthX), Andrew Goldner (Co-founder of GrowthX), and other global leaders. Episodes are available on Spotify. **Eligibility.** None; publicly available ### Springboard AI Strategy & Action Plan for Atlantic Canada - Organization: Springboard Atlantic - Category: other - Status: active - Official page: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/owsnhse2fe3ej78hpn5l4/AI-Action-Plan-Executive-Summary.pdf?rlkey=hrzmpf1wrghuveit2831sqjmh&dl=0 - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A published AI Strategy and Action Plan for Atlantic Canada, developed by Springboard Atlantic and available as a downloadable executive summary report. **Details.** Springboard Atlantic developed and published an AI Strategy & Action Plan for Atlantic Canada, featured prominently on the homepage with a downloadable executive summary. This demonstrates Springboard's role in regional technology strategy beyond individual program delivery. The report is available as a PDF via Dropbox. The initiative aligns with federal investment in AI adoption in Atlantic Canada, including an $8.5M federal government announcement supporting 40 AI projects in the region. **Eligibility.** Publicly available report ### Atlantic Startup News Blog - Organization: Startup Atlantic - Category: other - Status: active - Official page: https://www.startupatlantic.ca/our-blog - Last verified: 2026-04-16 **Summary.** A blog and news section featuring stories, success stories, and ecosystem commentary about startups and innovation in Atlantic Canada. **Details.** Startup Atlantic maintains a blog and news section that publishes articles about the Atlantic Canadian startup ecosystem. Content includes success stories (e.g., Radian6 acquisition by Salesforce, diversity and inclusion companies in New Brunswick), event recaps (Atlantic Venture Forum, Startupfest, Peer-to-Peer events), ecosystem commentary (e.g., 'Have We Reached Peak Startup in Atlantic Canada?'), industry coverage (deep tech in the Maritimes via BetaKit), and announcements about partner organizations such as Propel's Gerry Pond Sales Award. The blog serves as the voice that promotes and showcases the Atlantic Canadian ecosystem. **Eligibility.** Open access ---