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Source verified October 3, 2026
Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs
Support for trail projects in Nova Scotia
Latest source updateLast Update: September 30, 2026Latest change: The 2027–2028 Infrastructure Trail Funding Process guide now shows new EOI, application, and funding decision dates, along with revised application steps and eligibility details.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: September 30, 2026
Latest change: The 2027–2028 Infrastructure Trail Funding Process guide now shows new EOI, application, and funding decision dates, along with revised application steps and eligibility details.
2027–2028 trail funding process update
The 2027–2028 Infrastructure Trail Funding Process guide replaces the 2026–2027 cycle and moves the main dates to EOI opening on September 1, 2026, EOI deadline on November 1, 2026, application deadline on February 1, 2027, and funding determination on April 1, 2027. The guide also revises the application instructions, checklist, and final reporting steps, including the updated package attachments and the note that in-kind/equipment logs no longer require signatures. A new quick reference guide has also been added, and it newly identifies additional eligibility details such as rail trail limits for trail maintenance funding and Mi’kmaq Band Councils for CCTH programs.
Funding available
$ 150,000
Deadline
December 1, 2026
Opened April 1, 2026
Location
Nova Scotia, Canada
Overview
This program supports trail maintenance, engineering assistance, and trail infrastructure development in Nova Scotia. It funds eligible trail projects such as maintenance work, engineering assessments, and new or expanded recreational trail infrastructure.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Implement environmental initiatives
- Strengthen organizational capacity
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 150,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Nova Scotia
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Availability timeline
2026
Periods: 3
Activities funded
- Regular trail maintenance.
- Engineering support for trail construction, maintenance, and inspections.
- Development of new recreational trails and expansion of existing trails.
- Capital upgrades to trail infrastructure and connectivity.
Documents Needed
- Completed and signed application form
- Project budget
- Landowner permission or authorization
- Insurance proof
- Supporting quotes and project documents
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Not-for-profit community groups
- Municipalities
- Registered community associations and non-profit societies
- Mi'kmaq Band Councils
- Landowners applying through a not-for-profit organization
Who is not eligible
- Rail trail groups are not eligible to receive this funding unless the work is classified as an emergency
Eligible expenses
- Trail maintenance materials and equipment, including re-surfacing, brush cutting, drainage work, signage, bollards, gates, turnstiles, fencing, and amenities such as washrooms, picnic tables, benches, gazebos, and garbage cans
- Engineering-related planning, design, inspection, and rehabilitation costs for trail structures and components
- Capital costs for new recreational trails, trail expansion, and infrastructure and connectivity upgrades
- Repairs and replacement of bridge decking, railings, superstructures, culverts, trail surfaces, and supporting materials
- Removal of fallen trees or debris after catastrophic events
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Large equipment purchases.
- Buildings.
- Land purchases.
Eligible geographic areas
- Nova Scotia
Selection criteria
- Project alignment with trail funding goals.
- Need for the project and applicant contribution capacity.
- For provincial or regional organizations, support from local trail groups or municipal units.
How to apply
- Read and review the Infrastructure Trail Funding Guide carefully
- Submit a complete Expression of Interest form by email to ccthtrailgrants@novascotia.ca or ohvif.application@novascotia.ca
- Participate in the one-on-one intake meeting and complete the Intake Form
- Submit the complete application package by email to ccthtrailgrants@novascotia.ca or ohvif.application@novascotia.ca, or by mail to 80 Walker Street, Suite 1, Truro, NS B2N 4A7
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by CCTH, the OHVIF committee, or the Trails Consultant.
- Applicants are notified of the funding decision by email.
- Successful applicants receive a terms and conditions agreement.
- Payment is issued after the signed agreement is returned.
- Final reporting is required before any final payment, where applicable.
Additional information
- Applications are reviewed by CCTH, the OHVIF committee, or the Trails Consultant, depending on the program.
- Successful applicants must sign a terms and conditions agreement before payment is issued.
- Final reports are required, including financial statements for some programs.
- Successful applicants must acknowledge the financial assistance of the Province of Nova Scotia.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs Program
What is the Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs?
This program supports trail maintenance, engineering assistance, and trail infrastructure development in Nova Scotia. It funds eligible trail projects such as maintenance work, engineering assessments, and new or expanded recreational trail infrastructure.
How much funding can be received?
Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $150,000 per project.
What is the deadline to apply?
The program is accepting continuous intake
Who is eligible for the Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs program?
To be eligible for the Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs program, you must:
Registered not-for-profit or municipality
Trail authority and landowner permission
Trail insurance where required
What expenses are eligible under Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs?
Regular trail maintenance.
Engineering support for trail construction, maintenance, and inspections.
Development of new recreational trails and expansion of existing trails.
Capital upgrades to trail infrastructure and connectivity.
Who can I contact for more information about the Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs?
You can contact Nova Scotia Department of Energy by email at ccthtrailgrants@novascotia.ca.
Where is the Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs available?
The Nova Scotia Trail Funding Programs program is available the province of Nova Scotia.