If you’re interested in learning about the top industries in Nova Scotia, you’ve come to the right place!

In this article we cover the province’s biggest industries, which will generate some creative juices if you’re looking to start a business in NS. 

Top Industries in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is a province with a diverse economy that is driven by several industries. Here are the top industries in Nova Scotia that contribute significantly to the province’s economy:

Agriculture and Fisheries

Nova Scotia’s agriculture and fisheries industries are essential parts of the province’s economy. The province has a long history of producing high-quality seafood, including lobster, scallops, and salmon. Nova Scotia’s fertile land is also suitable for growing crops such as apples, blueberries, and grapes. The industry provides employment opportunities for thousands of people in the province.

Tourism and Hospitality

Nova Scotia’s tourism and hospitality industry is a significant contributor to the province’s economy. The province is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The industry includes hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and other related businesses. The industry provides employment opportunities for thousands of people in the province.

Information Technology

Nova Scotia’s information technology industry is a booming sector that provides high-paying jobs to thousands of people in the province. The industry includes software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and other related businesses. The province has a highly skilled workforce and a supportive business environment that makes it an attractive location for IT companies.

Healthcare

Nova Scotia’s healthcare industry provides essential services to the province’s residents. The industry includes hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and other related businesses. The province has a highly trained healthcare workforce that the provincial government wants to expand to include diverse workers.

Manufacturing

Nova Scotia’s manufacturing industry is a significant contributor to the province’s economy. The industry includes advanced manufacturing sectors such as aerospace, defense, and other related businesses. 

Energy

Nova Scotia’s energy industry is a growing sector that includes renewable energy, oil and gas, and other related businesses. The province has abundant natural resources and a supportive business environment that makes it an attractive location for energy companies.

Agriculture and Fisheries

Nova Scotia has a rich history in agriculture and fisheries, and these industries continue to play a vital role in the province’s economy. Whether you’re a farmer, fisher, or just a consumer, there are many reasons to appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into these industries.

Agriculture

Nova Scotia is home to over 3,000 farms, producing a wide variety of crops and livestock. Some of the top agricultural products in the province include:

• Blueberries
• Apples
• Grapes
• Potatoes
• Dairy products
• Poultry

In addition to these traditional products, there has been a recent push towards alternative crops such as hemp and kelp. Kelp farming, in particular, has been identified as a potential growth area for the province, with a recent report suggesting the industry could be worth nearly $40 million in Nova Scotia in three to five years.

While agriculture in Nova Scotia faces challenges such as climate change and consolidation in the industry, the provincial government is committed to supporting farmers and promoting sustainable practices. The Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture offers a variety of programs and services to help farmers be more competitive, sustainable, and profitable.

Fisheries

Nova Scotia’s fisheries have a long and storied history, with the province being home to some of the most productive fishing grounds in the world. The industry is a major employer in many coastal communities, supporting thousands of jobs.

Some of the top seafood products in Nova Scotia include:

• Lobster
• Scallops
• Crab
• Shrimp
• Haddock
• Clams

The province’s fisheries are subject to strict regulations to ensure sustainability and protect the environment. The Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture works closely with fishers and industry partners to promote responsible practices and support the growth of the industry.

Whether you’re enjoying a fresh lobster dinner or a glass of Nova Scotia wine, the agriculture and fisheries industries play an important role in providing high-quality, locally sourced products for consumers.

Tourism and Hospitality

Nova Scotia is a popular tourist destination, with its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture attracting visitors from all over the world. The tourism and hospitality industry is one of the largest employers in the province, providing jobs for thousands of people.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Nova Scotia is the Cabot Trail, a scenic drive that takes visitors through some of the province’s most beautiful landscapes. Other popular attractions include the Halifax Waterfront, Peggy’s Cove, and the Bay of Fundy.

If you are interested in starting your own tourism or hospitality business, there are many resources available to help you get started. Tourism Nova Scotia offers a range of programs and services to support entrepreneurs in this sector, including marketing and promotion, business development, and training and education.

Overall, the tourism and hospitality industry is an important part of Nova Scotia’s economy, providing jobs and driving growth in many communities throughout the province. Whether you are looking for a career in this sector or are interested in starting your own business, there are many opportunities available to you.

Information Technology

Nova Scotia’s Information Technology (IT) industry is growing rapidly, with Halifax being one of the top tech talent markets to watch in North America. According to the 2021 CBRE Scoring Tech Talent report, Halifax jumped from 12th to 7th place within North America, outranking larger cities with double the population, such as Las Vegas, NV. This growth is due to the rise of the digital sector, which is forcing N.S. schools to adapt to the changing needs of the industry.

The IT industry in Nova Scotia is focused on producing innovative products and services in interactive media, IT services, transatlantic telecommunications, enterprise solutions, e-health applications, data analytics, niche-oriented software products and solutions, cyber security, artificial intelligence, and the internet of things. Digital Nova Scotia is the industry association representing the tech sector in Nova Scotia, connecting the digital community, promoting its successes, and leading skill development to help the sector grow and thrive.

There are many top information technology companies in Halifax, NS, including IBM, CGI, NTT Data, and more. These companies are hiring for various IT positions, including software developers, data analysts, network administrators, and more. Glassdoor is a great resource to find job openings and read employee reviews for these companies.

Overall, the IT industry in Nova Scotia is booming and offers many exciting career opportunities. With the support of industry associations, educational institutions, and top companies, you can thrive in this growing industry.

Healthcare

Nova Scotia’s healthcare industry is a crucial part of the province’s economy and social fabric. The healthcare sector includes hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities that provide medical care and support services to the population. Here are some key points about healthcare in Nova Scotia:

• The Province’s 2023-24 budget is focused on solutions for healthcare and increases healthcare spending by $1.2 billion to $6.5 billion. This increased funding will help address the growing demand for healthcare services and improve access to care for Nova Scotians.

• Nova Scotia has a well-developed healthcare system that provides high-quality medical care to its residents. The province has a network of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities that offer a wide range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments.

• The healthcare industry is a major employer in Nova Scotia, providing jobs to thousands of people across the province. 

• The healthcare industry is also a significant contributor to the province’s GDP. According to Statista, the healthcare and social assistance industry accounted for 14.7% of Nova Scotia’s GDP in 2021.

• The Government has recently introduced a comprehensive new plan for improving health services for Nova Scotians. The plan focuses on delivering better healthcare outcomes, improving access to care, and addressing the needs of the province’s growing population. The plan includes initiatives such as building more beds, operating rooms, and emergency rooms, and opening new healthcare facilities in different parts of the province.

Manufacturing

Nova Scotia has a diverse manufacturing industry, with a wide range of products being produced in the province. In 2021, manufacturing contributed 7.3% to Nova Scotia’s GDP and employed over 31,000 people, making it a significant contributor to the province’s economy.

The manufacturing industry in Nova Scotia is made up of various sub-sectors, including food manufacturing, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing, chemical manufacturing, computer and electronic product manufacturing, and more. The industry is supported by the province’s skilled workforce, research and development capabilities, and world-class infrastructure.

Nova Scotia’s manufacturing industry is known for producing high-quality products that are in demand both domestically and internationally. The province’s location on the East Coast of Canada provides easy access to both North American and European markets, making it an attractive location for manufacturers.

Some of the top manufacturing companies in Nova Scotia include Michelin, IMP Group, and Pratt & Whitney Canada. Michelin, for example, is the largest private sector employer in the province, with over 3,500 employees. The company produces tires for a range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and airplanes.

Nova Scotia’s manufacturing industry is also supported by various organizations, including Nova Scotia Business Inc. and the Nova Scotia Department of Business. These organizations provide support and resources to help manufacturers grow and succeed in the province.

Energy

Nova Scotia’s energy sector is a vital component of the province’s economy. The energy sector is diverse and includes a mix of traditional and renewable energy sources. Here is an overview of the energy industry in Nova Scotia:

Electricity Generation

Nova Scotia’s electricity generation mix is diversified and includes coal, natural gas, wind, hydro, and biomass. The province’s electricity generation capacity is approximately 3,000 MW. Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NSPI), a subsidiary of Emera Inc., is the province’s primary electricity generator and distributor. NSPI’s electricity generation mix includes coal, natural gas, wind, hydro, and biomass. The company has been investing in renewable energy sources in recent years, with a target of achieving 40% renewable energy by 2020.

Oil and Gas

Nova Scotia has a small oil and gas industry, with offshore exploration and production activities taking place in the Sable Island and Deep Panuke fields. The province’s onshore oil and gas industry is limited, with only a few small-scale operations. The industry is regulated by the Nova Scotia Department of Energy and Mines.

Renewable Energy

Nova Scotia is committed to transitioning to a low-carbon economy and has set a target of achieving 80% renewable energy by 2030. The province’s renewable energy sources include wind, hydro, tidal, and biomass. Nova Scotia’s wind energy industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with several large-scale wind farms in operation. The province’s tidal energy industry is also gaining momentum, with several pilot projects underway.