
Community Economic Development Fund
Last Update: July 22, 2025
NS, Canada
Funding for sectors and communities to become more competitive
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- Max. $3,000,000
Timeline
- Open Date : January 1, 2024
- Closing date : April 30, 2024
Financing Type
Grant and Funding
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Closed
Overview
Get up to $3 million to cover the cost for your community-based project that sparks innovation and collaboration and builds stronger, more competitive sectors and regions.
Activities funded
There are eligible projects for this grant:
- Projects that increase economic competitiveness and productivity in Nova Scotia.
- Projects that promote cooperation and partnerships with other organizations.
- Initiatives for sector development, economic diversification, workforce competitiveness, applied research and development, and pilot projects.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 1,900,000
Develop an eco-tourism initiative to attract more tourists
$ 3,000,000
Initiate a renewable energy research and development project
$ 1,100,000
Create a digital literacy program for seniors
$ 1,450,000
Implement a job training program for Indigenous youth
$ 3,000,000
Launch a tech incubator hub to support local startups
$ 2,350,000
Establish a cooperative for sustainable fishing practices
Eligibility
Non-profits, industry associations, sector organizations, social enterprises, municipalities, academic institutions, and other organizations that benefit the public are eligible to apply for funding from the Community Economic Development Fund. For-profit businesses are not eligible.
- Non-profits, industry associations, sector organizations, social enterprises, municipalities, academic institutions, and other organizations that benefit the public can apply
- For-profit businesses are not eligible for funding
Who is eligible?
Non-profits, industry associations, sector organizations, social enterprises, municipalities, and academic institutions that benefit the public are eligible for the Community Economic Development Fund grant. For-profit businesses are not eligible.
- Non-profits
- Industry associations
- Sector organizations
- Social enterprises
- Municipalities
- Academic institutions
Who is not eligible
For-profit businesses are not eligible for the Community Economic Development Fund grant.
- For-profit businesses
Eligible expenses
There are eligible expenses for this grant. Eligible expenses include:
- Costs related to project development and implementation
- Consulting fees and professional services
- Equipment and supplies directly related to the project
- Labor costs for project-specific activities
- Travel expenses for project-related activities
- Evaluation and monitoring costs
Selection criteria
The Community Economic Development Fund uses several evaluation criteria to assess project proposals:
- Proposals must aim to improve Nova Scotia’s competitiveness and increase productivity.
- Partnerships with other organizations are required, including the private sector, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations.
- Projects should generate widespread benefits for a specific sector or industry within Nova Scotia.
- Metrics for success and progress monitoring methods need to be described.
- Long-term benefits for a particular sector or industry within Nova Scotia should be demonstrated.
- Projects must exhibit proven leadership, financial capital, and human capital.
How to apply
1
Review the Community Economic Development Fund Application Guide.
2
Complete the application form.
3
Check the application for details on all required supporting documents.
4
Complete a project proposal.
5
Send your completed application, supporting documents, and project proposal by mail, fax, or email.
6
Await confirmation of receipt from the Community Economic Development Fund within 1 week.
7
The Community Economic Development Fund Board assesses your application and supporting documents to determine if your project will receive funding.
8
It should take 10 to 12 weeks to find out if your project is approved for funding.
9
Follow-up on any additional information or corrections needed, if required.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Community Economic Development Fund Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Community Economic Development Fund. 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 Community Economic Development Fund?
How much funding can be received?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the Community Economic Development Fund a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the Community Economic Development Fund?
Who is eligible for the Community Economic Development Fund program?
Who can I contact for more information about the Community Economic Development Fund?
Where is the Community Economic Development Fund available?

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