Innovation Rebate Program
NS, Canada
Funding for Nova Scotia SMEs
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|fromMinToMax
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Manufacturing
grant_single|grantors
- Invest Nova Scotia
- Government of Nova Scotia
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Get a rebate of up to $3,750,000 to cover up to 25% of the project costs for improving your production processes or waste stream processing, for entering new markets and/or producing new products, or establishing new production facilities.
grant_single_labels|projects
Eligible projects for the Innovation Rebate Program include implementing new production processes, supporting sustainable goals, scaling production capacity, entering new markets, and establishing new production facilities in Nova Scotia.
- Implementation of new, significantly improved, and/or more sustainable production processes
- Supporting Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act
- Scaling production capacity for sustainable products
- Strengthening supply chains
- Increasing production capacity to enter new markets or produce new products
- Establishing new production facilities in Nova Scotia
- Value-added processing for traditional industries such as forestry, seafood, and agriculture
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$1,750,000
Saskatoon
Building a renewable energy plant
$375,000
Halifax
Upgrading seafood processing facilities for sustainable production
$750,000
Toronto
Creating a new production facility for organic skincare products
$250,000
Vancouver
Expanding brewery production to include a new product line
$250,000
Ottawa
Implementing a recycling program for agricultural waste
$1,250,000
Calgary
Scaling up the production of eco-friendly packaging materials
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The Innovation Rebate Program (IRP) is open to projects by Nova Scotia companies aimed at increasing competitiveness through innovation and sustainable growth. To be eligible, projects must meet specific criteria, including budget requirements and alignment with environmental and sustainability goals.
- Implementation of new, significantly improved, and/or more sustainable production processes.
- Supporting the principles and goals of Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act.
- Scaling production capacity for sustainable and clean product production.
- Strengthening supply chains to enable production in Nova Scotia (projects replacing existing Nova Scotia-based producers are not permitted).
- Increasing production capacity to enter new markets and/or produce new products.
- Establishing new production facilities in Nova Scotia.
- Value-added processing for traditional industries such as forestry, seafood, and agriculture.
- Eligible projects must have a minimum total budgeted Nova Scotia investment (excluding tax) of no less than $350,000.
- The maximum amount of Eligible Project Costs to which the IRP rebate will be applied is $15,000,000.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible companies for the Innovation Rebate Program include Nova Scotia-based companies that are looking to scale, increase competitiveness, and adopt more sustainable practices. The program supports companies in various sectors including manufacturing, clean technology, and value-added processing.
- Nova Scotia-based companies
- Companies seeking to innovate, increase productivity, and adopt sustainable approaches
- Manufacturing companies
- Clean technology companies
- Value-added processing companies
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
Some types of companies may not be eligible for the Innovation Rebate Program. Eligibility restrictions may apply to certain types of companies based on industry affiliations or specific criteria.
- Companies not based in Nova Scotia.
- Companies with a total budgeted Nova Scotia investment of less than $350,000.
- Companies involved in activities that do not align with the program's objectives.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Yes, eligible expenses for the Innovation Rebate Program may include direct costs of Eligible Projects such as implementing new production processes, supporting sustainable goals, scaling production capacity, and establishing new facilities.
- Implementation of new, significantly improved, and/or more sustainable production processes
- Supporting sustainability goals and climate change reduction
- Scaling production capacity for sustainable products
- Strengthening supply chains in Nova Scotia
- Increasing production capacity for new markets or products
- Establishing new production facilities in Nova Scotia
- Value-added processing in traditional industries
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for the Innovation Rebate Program. The evaluation is based on the following criteria:
- Demonstrated impact on competitiveness, innovation, and sustainability of the company;
- Alignment with Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act;
- Scalability of production capacity and support for sustainable products;
- Contribution to strengthening supply chains and market expansion;
- Creation of new production facilities or value-added processing in Nova Scotia.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Connect with a Regional Business Development Advisor to request an application form, confirm eligibility, and discuss next steps.
- Step 2: Submit a completed application form via PDF to a Regional Business Development Advisor.
- Step 3: Await approval of the application, provided that the project meets the eligibility criteria.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The Innovation Rebate Program provides additional support and resources for companies seeking to increase their competitiveness and sustainability in Nova Scotia.
- Applicants must submit a completed application form via PDF to a Regional Business Development Advisor.
- Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, and projects must be completed within three years from the date of application approval.
- An eligible project must have a minimum total budgeted Nova Scotia investment of at least $350,000 (excluding tax).
- The maximum amount of eligible project costs to which the IRP rebate will be applied is $15,000,000.
- Regional Business Development Advisors are available for detailed guidance and application form requests.
- The program aligns with Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act.
grant_single_labels|contact
902-424-8670
Apply to this program
Overview of the Innovation Rebate Program
The Innovation Rebate Program (IRP) provides financial incentives to Nova Scotia companies for projects aimed at improving competitiveness through innovation, increased production capacity, and sustainable practices. Eligible projects must have a minimum budget of $350,000 and support the principles of Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act.
In-Depth Guide to the Innovation Rebate Program
The Innovation Rebate Program (IRP) is a strategic initiative by Invest Nova Scotia aimed at bolstering the competitiveness, productivity, and sustainability of companies operating within the province. Designed to incentivize investments in innovative processes, cleaner technologies, and increased production capacities, this program plays a pivotal role in driving Nova Scotia towards a sustainable and prosperous future. Here’s an exhaustive guide to understanding and applying for the IRP.
Program Objectives
The primary objective of the Innovation Rebate Program is to provide financial support to Nova Scotia businesses as they scale operations to become more competitive on both national and global stages. By focusing on innovation, productivity, and sustainability, the IRP aims to foster a robust business environment that aligns with the province's economic and environmental goals.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Innovation Rebate Program, a project must meet the following criteria:
- Implementation of New or Improved Processes: Projects must involve the implementation of new, significantly improved, or more sustainable production processes.
- Supporting Environmental Goals: Projects should align with the principles and goals of Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act. This could include efforts to improve energy efficiency, integrate renewable energy, reduce waste, promote circular economy activities, lower greenhouse gas emissions, or increase resilience to climate change.
- Scaling Production Capacity: Projects that aim to scale production capacity for the manufacturing of sustainable and clean products are eligible. Such initiatives help support Nova Scotia and other jurisdictions in achieving their sustainable prosperity goals.
- Strengthening Supply Chains: Eligible projects include those that strengthen supply chains to enable production within Nova Scotia. It's important to note that projects designed to replace existing Nova Scotia-based producers are not permitted.
- Exploring New Markets: Projects aimed at increasing production capacity to enter new markets or produce new products are also considered.
- New Production Facilities: Establishing new production facilities within Nova Scotia forms a part of eligible projects.
- Value-Added Processing: Projects that involve value-added processing for traditional industries like forestry, seafood, and agriculture are eligible.
An eligible project must have a minimum budgeted investment (excluding taxes) of no less than $350,000. Additionally, the maximum amount of eligible project costs to which the IRP rebate will be applied is $15,000,000.
Financial Incentives
The IRP operates as a rebate against a company's direct costs associated with eligible projects. This program provides financial relief by reimbursing a part of the investment made in qualifying projects, thereby reducing the overall financial burden on the business and encouraging further investment in innovation and growth.
Application Process
To apply for the Innovation Rebate Program, businesses must follow these steps:
- Connect with a Regional Business Development Advisor: The first step is to connect with a Regional Business Development Advisor to request an application form, confirm eligibility, and discuss the next steps.
- Submission of Application: Applicants must submit a completed application form via PDF to their Regional Business Development Advisor. The application form should be thoroughly filled out with all necessary details about the project.
- Review and Approval: Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by Invest Nova Scotia. If approved, the project will qualify for the IRP rebate.
- Project Completion: Approved projects must be completed within three years from the date of application approval.
Key Regions and Contact Information
Invest Nova Scotia has designated Regional Business Development Advisors for different regions to assist applicants throughout the process. Here are the contact details for each region:
- South Shore Region: Valerie Caswell, 902.943.3793
- Western Region: Dan Surette, 902.774.0823
- Valley Region: Sean Cochrane, 902.790.2372
- Northern Region: Matthew Berrigan, 902.476.1257
- Northeastern Region: David Hachey, 902.921.0980
- Cape Breton Region: Wanda MacLean, 902.227.7144
- Halifax Regional Municipality:
- Halifax & West: Hector Fraser, 902.399.6427
- Dartmouth & East: Jean-Marie James, 902.240.8513
Important Dates
The Innovation Rebate Program accepts applications on an ongoing basis, providing flexibility for businesses to apply whenever they are ready to launch their projects. However, it is crucial to note that all approved projects must be completed within a three-year time frame from the date of application approval.
Support and Resources
Invest Nova Scotia offers various resources to assist applicants in completing their applications and understanding the program details. These resources include:
- Innovation Rebate Program Guidelines: Comprehensive guidelines detailing the program's objectives, eligibility criteria, and application process.
- Innovation Rebate Program FAQ: A list of frequently asked questions providing clarity on common queries related to the program.
- Regional Business Development Advisors: Direct contact with advisors who can offer personalized support and guidance through the application process.
For complete program details or assistance in completing the application form, applicants are encouraged to contact their Regional Business Development Advisor or refer to the provided guidelines and FAQs.
Conclusion
The Innovation Rebate Program is a vital tool for Nova Scotia companies seeking to enhance their competitiveness through innovation, increased production capacity, and sustainable practices. By providing financial support for eligible projects, the IRP helps businesses invest in critical areas that drive growth and align with environmental goals, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous Nova Scotia.
