🏠 | Nova Scotia | Small Business Resources Nova Scotia: Big List of Helpful Resources for NS Entrepreneurs

Small Business Resources Nova Scotia: Big List of Helpful Resources for NS Entrepreneurs

Maurice
By Maurice | April 18, 2025

Small businesses are the backbone of Nova Scotia’s economy, and it’s no secret that starting one can be a daunting task. However, the good news is that there are plenty of resources available to help entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground. From funding opportunities to training programs, there are a wealth of resources to support Nova Scotia business owners.

Top Small Business Resources in Nova Scotia

If you’re an entrepreneur in Nova Scotia, you’re in luck. There are many resources available to help you start and grow your small business. Here are some of the top resources to consider:

Invest Nova Scotia

Invest Nova Scotia is the province’s business development agency, and is the result of a recent amalgamation of Nova Scotia Business Inc and Innovacorp. Invest Nova Scotia offers a wide range of assistance to Nova Scotia businesses at every stage of development, from starting up and raising capital, to incubation and acceleration, export development and investment attraction.

Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development

The Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CEED) is a non-profit organization that provides training, mentoring, and financing to entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia. They offer a variety of programs, including the Self-Employment Benefits Program, which provides financial support to entrepreneurs while they start their businesses.

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is a federal agency that provides funding and support to businesses in Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia. They offer a range of programs and services, including business financing, innovation funding, and export development.

Nova Scotia Association of CBDCs

In addition to having one of the longest names in the province, the Nova Scotia Association of Community Business Development Corporations is a network of non-profit organizations that provide a variety of services to help stimulate economic development and entrepreneurship in Nova Scotia.

CBDCs provide a range of services to entrepreneurs and small businesses, including business advisory services, business planning development, and financial assistance in the form of loans, loan guarantees, and equity financing. They are focused particularly on rural areas of the province, with a goal of fostering local economic development and creating jobs.

Futurpreneur Canada

Futurpreneur Canada is a national organization that provides financing, mentoring, and support to young entrepreneurs in Canada, including Nova Scotia. They offer a range of programs, including the Start-Up Program, which provides up to $60,000 in financing and two years of mentoring to entrepreneurs aged 18-39.

Business Development Bank of Canada

The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is a federal agency that provides financing and advisory services to small and medium-sized businesses in Canada, including Nova Scotia. They offer a range of financing options, including loans, venture capital, and growth equity.

These are just a few of the top resources available to small business owners in Nova Scotia. By taking advantage of these resources, you can increase your chances of success and grow your business.

Local Resources for NS Entrepreneurs

Nova Scotia has a wealth of resources available for small business owners. From government programs to private organizations, entrepreneurs have access to a variety of support and funding options. In this section, we’ll highlight some of the local resources available to small business owners in Nova Scotia.

Halifax Chamber of Commerce

The Halifax Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to businesses in the Halifax area. They offer a variety of services, including networking events, business advocacy, and educational programs. The Chamber also provides members with access to exclusive discounts and benefits, such as group insurance plans and merchant services.

Cape Breton Partnership

The Cape Breton Partnership is a private sector-led organization that works to promote economic growth in Cape Breton. They offer a range of services to businesses, including business development support, workforce development, and investment attraction. The Partnership also provides funding opportunities for businesses through their various programs and initiatives.

In sum, small business owners in Nova Scotia have access to a wide range of local resources to help them succeed. Whether you’re looking for networking opportunities, funding, or business development support, there are plenty of organizations available to help. By taking advantage of these resources, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success and grow their businesses.

Business Networking and Mentorship in Nova Scotia

As an entrepreneur in Nova Scotia, networking and mentorship are essential to your success. Fortunately, there are several organizations that offer support in these areas.

Volta Labs

Volta Labs is a startup hub in Halifax that provides co-working space, mentorship, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs. Their Lunch and Learn events are a great way to connect with other founders and learn from experienced entrepreneurs. They also offer pitch competitions, resources, and networking events.

Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University is another resource for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their business. They offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and workshops on topics such as business planning, marketing, and finance. They also provide access to funding and pitch competitions.

Black Business Initiative

The Black Business Initiative is a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to Black entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia. They offer mentorship, networking events, and access to funding. They also provide training and workshops on topics such as marketing, financial management, and business planning.

Networking and mentorship are crucial for the success of any entrepreneur. By connecting with organizations like Volta Labs, the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, and the Black Business Initiative, entrepreneurs can gain valuable knowledge and resources to help them achieve their goals.

Other Nova Scotia Government Resources for Business

Here’s a list of government websites related to registering a NS business and more:

Nova Scotia Business Registration Forms

Nova Scotia Business Legislation

Nova Scotia Industry Websites

Other NS Online Resources for Entrepreneurs

Maurice

About the author

Maurice
Maurice (Moe) Muise learned the ins-and-outs of government while an employee of the Government of Canada in Ottawa for 10 years. His current focus is helping small businesses in Atlantic Canada to identify and maximize government grants to grow their business. Click here to learn more about Moe’s background and how he can help your business.