Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Literacy Nova Scotia

Literacy Nova Scotia (LNS) is a non-profit charitable umbrella organization dedicated to strengthening adult literacy, essential skills and lifelong learning opportunities throughout Nova Scotia. Serving as a provincial forum, it brings together community learning organizations, colleges, school boards, Indigenous communities and other partners to improve access to high-quality adult education programs.

LNS plays a direct funding role in the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) system. In partnership with the provincial Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, it administers NSSAL Community Grants, which provide financial support to community learning organizations so they can enhance learner participation in local programs. LNS also manages the NSSAL Professional Development (PD) Fund, a competitive fund that supports conferences, workshops and other short training activities for instructors, tutors and staff working in NSSAL-funded organizations.

In addition to these program-based funds, LNS provides learner financial awards, scholarships and bursaries (referenced in its membership benefits), helping adult learners to overcome financial barriers and stay engaged in upgrading and credential programs. Funding decisions for the PD Fund follow clear eligibility criteria, assessment rubrics and reporting requirements, reinforcing accountability and impact across the network.

Beyond direct financial support, LNS offers a comprehensive Practitioner Training and Certification Program delivered largely online through its eCampus. This foundational program supports new and experienced literacy practitioners with modules on adult learning, communications, math, technology integration, learning challenges and culturally responsive teaching, including dedicated content on supporting Mi’kmaw and English-as-an-additional-language adult learners.

LNS also maintains the LNS Resource Hub, an online platform where instructors and tutors can share and co-develop teaching materials, and hosts conferences, workshops and events that promote best practices in adult literacy. Through its "Find a Literacy Program" directory, the organization connects learners to community-based and institutional upgrading programs across regions of Nova Scotia.

Working closely with the Adult Education Division of the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration and the broader NSSAL network, LNS aims to ensure that every adult in Nova Scotia has access to appropriate literacy and essential skills learning opportunities. Its activities—funding programs, learner awards, practitioner training, resource development and public awareness—are designed to support a coordinated, high-quality adult learning system that responds to community needs and helps Nova Scotians achieve their learning and employment goals.

Members of Literacy Nova Scotia, both individuals and organizations, gain access to these programs and services, including discounts for events and eligibility for certain funds. Through this broad membership base, LNS amplifies the voice of the literacy sector and contributes to policy dialogue, collaboration and continuous improvement in adult education across the province.