Open
Business Development Program (BDP)
Financial support for business growth in Atlantic Canada
Last Update: May 31, 2026
Funding available
Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Overview
ACOA provides financial assistance to help businesses launch, modernize, and grow in Atlantic Canada. It supports business growth activities and non-profit projects that help SMEs become more competitive and productive.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop an online presence
- Conduct research and development activities
Eligible Funding
- Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Manufacturing
- Retail trade
- Other services (except public administration)
Location
- New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Public or Parapublic institution
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Startups
- Women
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Research
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Employment and Training
- Business Associations
Target groups
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- Regional
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Launching a new business.
- Expanding or modernizing an existing business.
- Business growth projects led by non-profits to support SMEs.
Documents Needed
- Incorporation or constituting documents
- Financial statements
- Project description or plan
- Quotes, permits, licences, and other supporting documents
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Entrepreneurs
- Non-profit organizations supporting SMEs
Who is not eligible
There are certain types of companies that are not eligible for this grant. Companies involved in illegal activities or those that do not comply with regional regulations may not qualify.
- Companies engaged in illegal activities
- Businesses not compliant with regional regulations
Eligible expenses
- Staff training, efficiency studies, marketing and trade activities, productivity improvements, quality assurance, and environmental management systems.
- Business counselling, training and specialized services, networking opportunities, research and development, and technology transfer for SMEs.
Eligible geographic areas
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Prince Edward Island
- Newfoundland and Labrador
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are acknowledged after submission.
- ACOA assesses applications based on the information and documents provided.
- ACOA may request additional information or clarification.
- A funding decision is made once the assessment is complete.
Additional information
- ACOA Business Information Services offers free, bilingual support.
- Applicants can consult the Open Government Portal to see funded organizations.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Business Development Program (BDP) Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Business Development Program (BDP). This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Business Development Program (BDP)?
ACOA provides financial assistance to help businesses launch, modernize, and grow in Atlantic Canada. It supports business growth activities and non-profit projects that help SMEs become more competitive and productive.
How much funding can be received?
Business Development Program (BDP) Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Business Development Program (BDP) program?
To be eligible for the Business Development Program (BDP) program, you must:
Entrepreneurs or non-profits
Business growth in Atlantic Canada
Non-profits supporting SMEs
What expenses are eligible under Business Development Program (BDP)?
Launching a new business.
Expanding or modernizing an existing business.
Business growth projects led by non-profits to support SMEs.
Who can I contact for more information about the Business Development Program (BDP)?
You can contact Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) or by phone at 1-888-576-4444.
Where is the Business Development Program (BDP) available?
The Business Development Program (BDP) program is available the province of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island.
Is the Business Development Program (BDP) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Business Development Program (BDP) is a Grant and Funding