Open
Source verified May 28, 2026
Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)
Supports economic development projects in Atlantic Canadian communities
Latest source updateLast Update: May 8, 2026Latest change: The ICF application page now directs applicants to MyACOA with new pre-application guidance, document requirements, and contact details.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: May 8, 2026
Latest change: The ICF application page now directs applicants to MyACOA with new pre-application guidance, document requirements, and contact details.
ICF application process updated
The ICF application content has shifted from a simple submission page to a fuller online application guide. Applicants are now directed to MyACOA, with added steps for account setup, uploading supporting documents, and completing organizational and project information modules. The page also adds clearer pre-application guidance on program fit, required documents, and the project details needed for assessment. Contact information has been simplified to a single help email and portal-based support, while the program framing now emphasizes Atlantic Canada economic development and related project expectations.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Opened February 3, 2026
Location
New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Overview
The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) provides non-repayable funding to support projects that build local economies in Atlantic Canada. Eligible projects include developing industry sectors, strengthening rural infrastructure, and initiatives that help communities address economic challenges and seize new opportunities.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Reduce environmental footprint
- Develop workforce skills
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Public or Parapublic institution
- Non-financial cooperative
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Language Minorities
- Rural or Northern Residents
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Culture and Arts
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Employment and Training
- Business Associations
- Diversity and Inclusion
Target groups
- Indigenous peoples
- Rural / Remote communities
- Nonprofits / charities
- Academia / students
- Community leaders
- Minority groups
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- Local
- Municipal
- Regional
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Development of local industry sectors to foster economic growth.
- Strengthening of rural community infrastructure.
- Implementation of initiatives to address local economic challenges.
- Projects designed to help communities capitalize on new economic opportunities.
Documents Needed
- Application for financial assistance form
- Incorporation or constituting documents
- Financial statements
- Detailed project description or plan
- Supporting quotes, permits, licences, or related documents
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Non-commercial organizations
- Non-profit organizations
- Indigenous bands and Indigenous-controlled non-profit entities
- Co-operatives and local development associations
- Municipalities and their agencies
- Educational institutions
- Industry or sector associations
Who is not eligible
There are specific types of companies that are not eligible for the Innovative Communities Fund grant. Eligible recipients include non-commercial and non-profit organizations, Indigenous bands and Indigenous-controlled non-profit entities, co-operatives and local development associations, municipalities and their agencies, educational institutions, and industry or sector associations.
- Non-commercial and non-profit organizations
- Indigenous bands and Indigenous-controlled non-profit entities
- Co-operatives and local development associations
- Municipalities and their agencies
- Educational institutions
- Industry or sector associations
Eligible expenses
This grant supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic vitality and resilience of communities in Atlantic Canada. The eligible projects focus on industrial development, infrastructure improvement, and addressing socio-economic challenges.
- Development of thriving industry sectors within communities.
- Strengthening infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.
- Projects helping communities overcome economic issues and leverage new opportunities.
- Support for community projects by Indigenous groups and non-profit organizations in official language minority communities.
Eligible geographic areas
- Communities located in Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Selection criteria
- Clear explanation of links and partnerships within the community.
- Directly addresses challenges and opportunities in the local area.
- Demonstrates potential to lead to economic growth.
- Proposal goes beyond the organization's regular activities.
- Project has a clear end date and demonstrates the applicant has the necessary skills and resources to manage activities.
How to apply
- Step 1
- Contact your nearest ACOA office to discuss your project.
- Step 2
- Prepare and complete the Application for financial assistance.
- Step 3
- Submit the application online through MyACOA or use the ACOA Direct submission process.
- Upload the required supporting documents and complete the certification declaration.
- Step 4
- Keep the confirmation page or reference number for your records.
Processing and Agreement
- ACOA acknowledges receipt of the application and assigns a project number.
- The application is assessed using the information and documents provided.
- ACOA may request additional information or clarification.
- A funding decision is made after the assessment is complete.
Additional information
- Recipients are encouraged to review past ICF-funded projects on the Open Government Portal using the keyword "ICF" for further insight.
- Business impact stories highlighting the outcomes of funded projects are available for reference.
- Support is available for projects led by Indigenous groups and organizations serving official language minority communities (OLMCs).
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) Program
What is the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)?
The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) provides non-repayable funding to support projects that build local economies in Atlantic Canada. Eligible projects include developing industry sectors, strengthening rural infrastructure, and initiatives that help communities address economic challenges and seize new opportunities.
Who is eligible for the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) program?
To be eligible for the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) program, you must:
Non-commercial and non-profit organizations
Indigenous bands, Indigenous-controlled non-profit entities
Co-operatives, municipalities, educational institutions, or industry/sector associations
What expenses are eligible under Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)?
Development of local industry sectors to foster economic growth.
Strengthening of rural community infrastructure.
Implementation of initiatives to address local economic challenges.
Projects designed to help communities capitalize on new economic opportunities.
Who can I contact for more information about the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)?
You can contact Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) or by phone at 1-888-576-4444.
Where is the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) available?
The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) program is available the province of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island.
Is the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)?
Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) is funded by Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)