Small business funding doesn’t come easy. For entrepreneurs and small business owners, finding the right support to grow and scale can make all the difference. While there are many funding programs out there, it is hard to cut through the noise and ultra-specific options to find programs that are suited to your business.
There are two standout options in Nova Scotia that offer practical value, especially for businesses focused on local production or looking to expand beyond provincial borders.
Whether you’re producing Nova Scotia-made goods or exploring new export markets, these programs can offer strategic financial and marketing support that aligns with your growth goals. Here’s a closer look at two cool small business funding programs every local business should know about.
A little about Invest Nova Scotia
Invest Nova Scotia is a provincial Crown corporation dedicated to fostering business growth and innovation throughout Nova Scotia. It supports companies at every stage—from start-up to expansion—by offering access to capital, incubation facilities, and tailored advisory services. By collaborating with industry, academia, and government, Invest Nova Scotia helps businesses take advantage of opportunities and thrive in a competitive global market.
The agency manages programs like the Nova Scotia First Fund, which invests in high-potential technology start-ups, and the Accelerate program, providing funding and mentorship to early-stage companies. With specialized facilities such as The Bays in Dartmouth and Start-Up Yard at COVE, it nurtures ventures in clean tech, ocean industries, and life sciences. Invest Nova Scotia plays a pivotal role in building a resilient, innovation-driven economy across the province.
Invest Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia Loyal Producer Labelling Program
More than ever, consumers want to support local. The Nova Scotia Loyal Producer Labelling Program is a funding and support initiative designed to help local businesses promote their Nova Scotia-made products more effectively—with marketing support, labelling resources, and a recognizable badge that signals homegrown quality.
What it offers:
- Access to the Nova Scotia Loyal™ brand identity and labelling assets
- Promotional materials and signage to use in-store or online
- Marketing and advertising support tied to a provincial campaign encouraging consumers to “Buy Local”
Who it’s for:
- Producers, manufacturers, and processors based in Nova Scotia
- Retailers with private-label Nova Scotia-made products
- Any business that qualifies as a local producer and wants to showcase that identity to shoppers
Why does it matter? Because trust sells—and when your packaging and marketing clearly show your products are made here in Nova Scotia, that trust leads to higher customer loyalty and increased sales.
Learn more and apply for the Nova Scotia Loyal Producer Labelling Program.
Invest Nova Scotia: Export Development Program
Looking to take your products or services beyond provincial or national borders? The Export Development Program helps Nova Scotia businesses enter and expand in new markets with direct financial support for export activities. It’s one of the most actionable small business funding programs for companies with a growth mindset.
What it offers:
- Cost-sharing support for trade show attendance, market research, travel, and translation
- Assistance with marketing, packaging, and export-related certifications
- Access to advisory services and customized support through Invest Nova Scotia
Who it’s for:
- Small and medium-sized Nova Scotia businesses with export potential
- Companies exploring new international or interprovincial markets
- Businesses in sectors like food and beverage, clean tech, ICT, ocean tech, manufacturing, and more
Exporting can feel like a leap, especially for small operations—but with the right funding support and guidance, it becomes a smart next step. Whether you’re shipping products across the country or developing new relationships abroad, this program helps ease the risk and amplify your reach.
Get the full details on the Export Development Program here.
Why Programs Like These Matter
Small business funding programs don’t just help businesses survive—they help them grow sustainably. What makes both of these programs stand out is how targeted they are: one builds trust and brand equity here at home, while the other equips you to scale and diversify into new markets.
For rural producers, craft manufacturers, niche service providers, and makers across Nova Scotia, programs like these bridge the gap between great products and wider opportunity. They put branding, marketing, and business development tools within reach—without draining internal resources.
Tips to Make the Most of These Funding Programs
Applying for funding can feel like a process, but here are a few simple tips to make the most of these opportunities:
- Start early: Application cycles vary, so build timelines around your project needs.
- Gather strong documentation: Budget estimates, project plans, and business rationale will strengthen your application.
- Focus on alignment: Clearly connect how your project aligns with the program’s goals—whether that’s supporting local producers or increasing export readiness.
- Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to Invest Nova Scotia for clarification or guidance—they’re there to help businesses succeed.
Whether you’re showcasing a new Nova Scotia-made product line or preparing for your first trade mission, these two small business funding programs can open doors to growth, recognition, and long-term success.
Want help building your marketing plan to align with these programs? Reach out to the team at Boom12—we’ll help you connect strategy, funding, and results that last.