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

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$ 100,000

Creating a new mobile app for a financial cooperative offering digital services

$ 50,000

Conducting in-depth market research for a start-up specializing in educational technology

$ 35,000

Developing a business plan for expanding a local non-profit's community outreach programs

$ 60,000

Setting up compliance systems for environmental regulations for a green tech company

$ 75,000

Launching an export program for a local food processor targeting the US market

$ 40,000

Developing a comprehensive marketing strategy for a local artisan cooperative

grant_single_labels|admissibility

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's Business Information Services offers assistance to entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to start or grow their ventures in Atlantic Canada, with guidance available in areas such as planning, financing, and market research.

Entrepreneurs looking to start a new business venture.
Existing businesses aiming to grow within Atlantic Canada.
Organizations needing assistance with business planning or financial options.
Companies seeking guidance on government regulations and compliance.
Businesses involved in importing or exporting goods and services.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

There are specific types of companies that are not eligible for this grant.

Companies involved in illegal activities
Non-profit organizations
Individuals not operating a business

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

This grant offers comprehensive support for businesses at various stages, from start-up to growth. It provides access to vital business planning resources, financial guidance, regulatory information, and market research tools to help businesses thrive.

Providing guidance on business planning tailored to each specific business stage.
Offering information on various funding opportunities, including loans, grants, and wage subsidies.
Assisting with navigation of government regulations, including taxes, permits, and licenses.
Supplying reliable market research information, including demographics, industry performance, and consumer trends.
Access to a wide variety of business templates and start-up guides for business development.
Professional review and feedback for business plans.
Facilitating imports and exports knowledge to move goods across borders effectively.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This grant supports businesses located within specific regions in Atlantic Canada as determined by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). These areas are strategically chosen to enhance regional economic growth and development.

Nova Scotia
New Brunswick
Prince Edward Island
Newfoundland and Labrador

grant_single_labels|criteria

There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant.

Business viability and growth potential
Alignment with program objectives
Feasibility of the project
Economic impact
Financial need

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for ACOA's Business Information Services:

Step 1: Initial Inquiry
- Contact ACOA's Business Information Services via phone at 1-888-576-4444 or email to discuss your business needs.
- Utilize the Business Benefits Finder on the web or the Canada Business app to identify suitable programs.
Step 2: Program Identification
- Work with the ACOA team to determine the most relevant programs and supports based on your business objectives.
- Assess eligibility criteria and gather preliminary information on potential programs.
Step 3: Application Preparation
- Gather all necessary documentation, including business plans, financial statements, and any required forms specified by the ACOA program of interest.
- Engage with ACOA advisors for a professional business plan review if needed.
- Utilize available business templates and startup guides to ensure a comprehensive application.
Step 4: Submit Application
- Complete the application forms, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
- Submit the application through the designated submission portal or method as instructed by the ACOA advisors.
Step 5: Confirmation and Follow-Up
- Receive confirmation of your application submission and keep a record of any reference numbers or communications from ACOA.
- Prepare for any follow-up questions or requests for additional information from the ACOA team.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Understanding the services provided by ACOA's Business Information Services can enhance the grant application process:

ACOA provides free business support in both English and French, which can assist applicants in navigating grant requirements.
The agency offers resources like business planning guides and financial benchmarking specific to industries.
Applicants can access over 10,000 free business templates to help organize and prepare their applications.
ACOA offers personalized support, reviewing professional business plans to increase the success rate of grant applications.
The Canada Business app and Business Benefits Finder can help applicants identify additional programs and services beyond the grant in question.