Closed
Economic Development Initiative
Supports economic development in Atlantic Canada
Last Update: May 27, 2026
Funding available
Up to 25% of project cost
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Overview
This program provides up to $1.1 million annually to support economic development in Acadian and francophone communities in Atlantic Canada. It funds projects that offer business support, foster research and development, improve productivity, boost innovation, reach new markets, and support francophone immigration.
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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 a new program or service
- Enhance an existing program
Eligible Funding
- Up to 25% of project cost
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Educational services
- Public administration
Location
- New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Language Minorities
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Higher Education
- Research
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Business Associations
- Professional Associations
- Not Elsewhere Classified
- Children and Youth Organizations
Target groups
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- Nonprofits / charities
- Academia / students
- Community leaders
- Minority groups
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- Regional
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Business advice and support
- Research and development
- Market development and access to new markets
- Innovation and productivity improvements
- Francophone immigration support
Documents Needed
- Incorporation or constituting documents
- Financial statements
- Detailed project description or plan
- Supporting documents such as quotes, permits, or licences
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Non-profit organizations
- Economic development associations
- Provincial Crown corporations
- Colleges, universities, and other post-secondary institutions
- Municipalities
- Business and technology institutes
Eligible geographic areas
- Atlantic Canada
Processing and Agreement
- ACOA acknowledges receipt of the application and provides a project number and assigned program officer.
- The application is assessed using the information and documents submitted.
- ACOA may request additional information or clarification during review.
- A funding decision is made once the assessment is complete, according to service standards.
Additional information
- The program is part of Canada’s official languages action plan.
- Funding is delivered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
- Applicants may contact ACOA Business Information Services for guidance.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Economic Development Initiative Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Economic Development Initiative. 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 Economic Development Initiative?
This program provides up to $1.1 million annually to support economic development in Acadian and francophone communities in Atlantic Canada. It funds projects that offer business support, foster research and development, improve productivity, boost innovation, reach new markets, and support francophone immigration.
How much funding can be received?
Economic Development Initiative Funds up to 25% of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Economic Development Initiative program?
To be eligible for the Economic Development Initiative program, you must:
Non-profit organization serving Acadian or francophone communities
Project supports community economic development
At least 25% other funding required
What expenses are eligible under Economic Development Initiative?
Business advice and support
Research and development
Market development and access to new markets
Innovation and productivity improvements
Francophone immigration support
Who can I contact for more information about the Economic Development Initiative?
You can contact Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) by email at bis-sie@acoa-apeca.gc.ca or by phone at 1-888-576-4444.
Where is the Economic Development Initiative available?
The Economic Development Initiative program is available the province of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island.
Is the Economic Development Initiative a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Economic Development Initiative is a Grant and Funding