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Source verified March 4, 2026
CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program
Financial support for Atlantic Canadian entrepreneurs
Latest source updateLast Update: May 24, 2026Latest change: The page content now centers on general CBDC services and contact information instead of the Atlantic Canada Self-Employment Benefit program details.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: May 24, 2026
Latest change: The page content now centers on general CBDC services and contact information instead of the Atlantic Canada Self-Employment Benefit program details.
Self-Employment Benefit page updated
The page has shifted away from detailed Self-Employment Benefit guidance and now emphasizes broader CBDC services, financing, advice, learning resources, and success stories. The eligibility description, application steps, funding support details, and contact path were all revised, making the page much less specific for applicants seeking the original program information.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Nova Scotia, Canada
Overview
The Self-Employment Benefit Program provides financial support and coaching to eligible applicants in Atlantic Canada as they launch a new business. It supports business planning, counselling, and technical advice during the planning and start-up phases.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop workforce skills
- Start a business
- Launch or market a product/service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Nova Scotia
Legal structures
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Launching a new self-employed business.
- Preparing a business plan for start-up.
- Receiving coaching, counselling, and technical advice during start-up.
Documents Needed
- Application form
- Business plan
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Unemployed individuals in Atlantic Canada
- Applicants receiving or having received EI benefits
- Individuals starting a new business
Who is not eligible
Some types of companies may not be eligible for the Self-Employment Benefit (SEB) Program:
- Companies that do not have a viable business plan.
- Companies that do not demonstrate potential for success.
Eligible expenses
- Training costs for approved business training, fully or partially covered.
Eligible geographic areas
- Atlantic Canada
Selection criteria
- Strengths and needs assessment by the SEB Coordinator.
- Business plan showing potential for success.
- Evaluation against provincially established program criteria.
How to apply
- Step 1: Meet with the local SEB Coordinator
- Discuss your situation and eligibility.
- The coordinator assesses your strengths and needs.
- Step 2: Complete the application and business plan
- Submit the application form.
- Prepare a business plan that shows potential for success.
- Step 3: Committee review and decision
- The coordinator presents the file to a committee.
- The application is evaluated under provincially established criteria.
- The coordinator informs you of the result.
Processing and Agreement
- The local SEB Coordinator reviews the application and business plan with a committee.
- The file is evaluated against provincially established program criteria.
- Applicants are officially notified of the decision by the SEB Coordinator.
Additional information
- Programs and services may vary by region.
- The program is delivered through CBDCs in Atlantic Canada.
- Support includes financial assistance, counselling, and technical advice.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program Program
What is the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program?
The Self-Employment Benefit Program provides financial support and coaching to eligible applicants in Atlantic Canada as they launch a new business. It supports business planning, counselling, and technical advice during the planning and start-up phases.
Who is eligible for the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program program?
To be eligible for the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program program, you must:
Unemployed in Atlantic Canada
EI recipient or former recipient
Business plan required
What expenses are eligible under CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program?
Launching a new self-employed business.
Preparing a business plan for start-up.
Receiving coaching, counselling, and technical advice during start-up.
Who can I contact for more information about the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program?
You can contact Community Business Development Corporations (CBDC) or by phone at 1-888-303-2232.
Where is the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program available?
The CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program program is available the province of Nova Scotia.
Is the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program?
CBDC Self Employment Benefit Program is funded by Community Business Development Corporations (CBDC)