How much funding can be received?

Bilingual staff to help you navigate government programs and services, regulations and permits, taxation, importing and exporting and financing options and can also put together tailored market research packages.

grant_single_labels|projects

This grant is available to companies located in the Atlantic provinces of Canada, as specified by the funding body. These regions are explicitly targeted to foster economic growth and opportunities in Atlantic Canada.

Nova Scotia
New Brunswick
Prince Edward Island
Newfoundland and Labrador

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$150,000

Implement a cutting-edge renewable energy technology in rural areas

$250,000

Conduct R&D for developing advanced medical imaging technologies

$50,000

Develop a new software certification program for export to European markets

$85,000

Execute a business expansion strategy to launch a new product line

$70,000

Upgrade digital infrastructure to improve international market reach

$80,000

Expand organic agricultural products into the Asian market through export initiatives

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Be a business operating in Atlantic Canada.
Have a viable business plan and demonstrate the need for funding.
Be in compliance with all relevant regulations and laws.
Be able to contribute financially to the project or operation.

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The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Business Information Services program is generally available to businesses and entrepreneurs in the Atlantic Canada region, encompassing Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The services are designed to assist both new and existing businesses with a variety of needs, including business planning, financing, regulatory compliance, import and export guidance, and market research. While specific eligibility criteria for grants under "ACOA programs" have not been provided in the provided context, the services are broadly targeted at supporting business start-up, growth, and development within the Atlantic Canadian economic ecosystem.

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There are certain types of companies that are not eligible for this grant:

Companies involved in illegal activities
Non-profit organizations
Individuals without a registered business

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

This grant supports a range of business activities aimed at starting and growing businesses by providing crucial information and resources. The eligible projects include planning, financing, legal compliance, market research, and business strategy development.

Business planning assistance tailored to different stages of business development.
Access to various funding options including loans and grants.
Guidance on navigating government regulations related to taxes, permits, and licenses.
Support and information on importing and exporting goods across Canadian borders.
Provision of reliable market research information encompassing demographics and consumer trends.

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There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria include:

Demonstrated need for funding
Viability and potential impact of the project
Alignment with the agency's objectives
Feasibility and sustainability of the business plan
Ability to meet reporting requirements
Compliance with all relevant regulations and guidelines

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Contact ACOA Business Information Services
- Reach out to the Business Information Services by calling 1-888-576-4444 to discuss your business needs and get guidance on available programs.
- Email the ACOA for further assistance and to ask specific questions about suitable grants.
Step 2: Explore Available Programs
- Use the Business Benefits Finder on their website to identify programs tailored to your business's requirements.
- Download the Canada Business app from the App Store or Google Play to explore programs that fit your needs on the go.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Information
- Collect detailed information about your business, including business plans, financial statements, and market research data.
- Consider using ACOA's resources such as business start-up guides and business templates to prepare the necessary documentation.
Step 4: Develop Your Application
- Prepare a comprehensive application including a detailed project proposal, expected outcomes, and supporting documents like budgets and timelines.
- Seek a professional business plan review through ACOA to ensure your application is robust.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
- Submit your completed application along with all required documents, ensuring you adhere to any specific instructions provided by ACOA.
Step 6: Follow Up and Confirmation
- After submission, contact ACOA to confirm receipt of your application and for any further instructions.
- Monitor any communications from ACOA regarding the status of your application or any additional information needed.

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Here are additional relevant details regarding ACOA's Business Information Services:

The Business Information Services are available free of charge and in both official languages.
A wide array of over 10,000 business templates are available to assist with any business needs.
Provides reliable market research information, including demographics, potential competitors, and industry performance.
Offers personalized business planning information and professional business plan review services.
Guides on different financing options such as loans, grants, and wage subsidies.
Access to business start-up guides with step-by-step instructions to set up a business.
Contact support is available via phone or email for assistance in navigating Canadian business resources and program details.

grant_single_labels|contact

1-888-576-4444

Apply to this program

Empowering Businesses in Atlantic Canada

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) offers a comprehensive range of services and resources to support businesses at various stages of development in Atlantic Canada. With a focus on financing, business planning, and market research, ACOA is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and companies navigate the complexities of business growth and success.

Comprehensive Support for Business Growth and Market Competitiveness

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) provides invaluable support to businesses located in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Through its Business Information Services, ACOA serves as an essential resource for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking guidance on numerous facets of business development. ACOA’s services are particularly tailored to assist in strategic planning, financial sourcing, regulatory compliance, and market positioning. Whether a business is at the initial stage of planning or in the growth phase, ACOA’s suites of tools and resources are designed to aid in making informed decisions that foster sustainable growth and market competitiveness.

Through personalized business planning services, ACOA enables businesses to draft and refine strategies that effectively position them for success in the market. This includes providing insights into demographic targeting, industry benchmarking, and consumer trends, allowing businesses to tailor their offerings to meet market demands effectively. ACOA’s emphasis on thorough research and planning ensures companies are well-prepared to face both local and international market pressures.

Businesses seeking financial assistance can leverage ACOA’s expertise in navigating different funding opportunities. From identifying suitable grants and loans to optimizing wage subsidies, ACOA helps businesses secure the necessary funding to implement their strategies and achieve operational objectives. The agency’s guidance in financial planning is critical for companies seeking to balance their operational needs with available funding sources, ensuring long-term economic viability.

In addition to financial guidance, ACOA provides critical information on government regulations, helping businesses comply with necessary legalities including taxes, permits, and licenses. This resource is crucial for businesses to operate legally and avoid potential pitfalls associated with non-compliance. Moreover, ACOA’s import and export advisory services are vital for businesses looking to expand beyond domestic borders, providing strategic advice on how to navigate international trade complexities.

ACOA’s impact on local businesses is further enhanced by its provision of over 10,000 free business templates and over 50 comprehensive business start-up guides. These resources equip business owners with practical tools and methodologies necessary for effective decision-making and project execution. The agency's dedication to educational support and professional plan reviews ensures that entrepreneurs have the foundation and confidence to transition from ideation to implementation.

Overall, ACOA plays a pivotal role in the economic development of Atlantic Canada by empowering businesses with the knowledge, resources, and strategic advice needed to thrive in competitive environments. Its commitment to fostering innovation, supporting sustainable growth, and facilitating international trade underscores its importance as a catalyst for regional prosperity. By offering these comprehensive services, ACOA not only supports immediate business needs but also contributes to the long-term economic health of the Atlantic provinces.