Nova Scotia — Export Development Program
NS, Canada
Support for export growth in Nova Scotia
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grant_single|eligibleFinancing
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
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Grant and Funding
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grant_single|grantors
- Invest Nova Scotia
- Government of Nova Scotia
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grant_card_status|open
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Get up to $30,000 to cover up to 50% of eligible costs to start exporting outside of Nova Scotia in one of 3 streams: Travel and Virtual Trade Missions, Hire a Consultant, and Digital Adoption.
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Yes, there are projects and activities eligible for this grant. Eligible projects include travel and participation in trade shows, and hiring consultants or service providers.
- Travel to visit clients, potential partners, and investors outside Nova Scotia
- Participate in in-person or virtual trade shows or conferences
- Have foreign clients, potential partners, or investors visit Nova Scotia facilities
- Hire consultants or service providers for business matchmaking and market research
- Consultation for re-branding, developing promotional materials, and improving competitiveness
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$7,500
Halifax
Travel to Germany to attend the Hannover Messe trade show for renewable energy technologies.
$5,000
Toronto
Hire a market research consultant to analyze opportunities in the European retail market.
$4,000
Montreal
Develop new promotional materials to improve competitiveness in the US market.
$3,000
Vancouver
Participate in a virtual trade show to connect with international textile buyers.
$5,500
Halifax
Host Japanese investors at our Nova Scotia facilities to explore investment opportunities.
$10,000
Calgary
Hire a consultant to develop a re-branding strategy for penetrating the Australian market.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The Export Development Program (EDP) is for Nova Scotia businesses that wish to grow their business by increasing sales outside Nova Scotia. The eligibility criteria for this grant are as follows:
- Be a Nova Scotia registered business in good standing (current registration on the Registry of Joint Stock Companies).
- Have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia.
- Have most of its workforce currently residing in Nova Scotia. (Some exceptions may apply where it can be demonstrated that the economic benefit can be accrued to Nova Scotia. Contact the Regional Business Development Advisor in your area to discuss.)
- Be engaged in, or have imminent plans to engage in, commercial activities outside Nova Scotia, with fully developed exportable product(s), service(s), technology(ies), and/or intellectual property to the satisfaction of Invest Nova Scotia.
- Have a business plan and a strategy to sell products/services outside Nova Scotia outlining the business’s target market and distribution channels and challenges in the target market and how they will be overcome.
- Have no outstanding or pending claims/litigation, injunctions, judgments, orders, legal or administrative actions, or similar proceedings against the business, its principals and/or any related business(es). (Some exceptions may apply. Contact the Regional Business Development Advisor in your area to discuss.)
- The business, principals and/or any related business(es) shall not be in default of any obligations under any other form of financial assistance and/or incentive program from Invest Nova Scotia, the Province of Nova Scotia, or by any agency of the Province of Nova Scotia. For purposes of this criteria, the Credit Union Small Business Loan Guarantee Program is considered a form of financial assistance provided by the Province of Nova Scotia.
- Businesses and their related entities may be limited to funding for one business only at Invest Nova Scotia’s sole discretion.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Yes, there are specific eligibility criteria for companies to be eligible for this grant. The eligible companies must be Nova Scotia registered businesses with a permanent establishment, among other requirements.
- Be a Nova Scotia registered business in good standing (current registration on the Registry of Joint Stock Companies).
- Have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia.
- Have most of its workforce currently residing in Nova Scotia. (Some exceptions may apply where it can be demonstrated that the economic benefit can be accrued to Nova Scotia.)
- Be engaged in, or have imminent plans to engage in, commercial activities outside Nova Scotia, with fully developed exportable product(s), service(s), technology(ies), and/or intellectual property to the satisfaction of Invest Nova Scotia.
- Have a business plan and a strategy to sell products/services outside Nova Scotia outlining the business’s target market and distribution channels and challenges in the target market and how they will be overcome.
- Have no outstanding or pending claims/litigation, injunctions, judgments, orders, legal or administrative actions, or similar proceedings against the business, its principals and/or any related business(es). (Some exceptions may apply.)
- The business, principals and/or any related business(es) shall not be in default of any obligations under any other form of financial assistance and/or incentive program from Invest Nova Scotia, the Province of Nova Scotia, or by any agency of the Province of Nova Scotia.
- Businesses and their related entities may be limited to funding for one business only at Invest Nova Scotia’s sole discretion.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are certain types of companies that are not eligible for the Export Development Program grant:
- Companies without a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia
- Companies not engaged in commercial activities outside Nova Scotia
- Companies with outstanding or pending claims/litigation, injunctions, judgments, orders, legal or administrative actions
- Companies in default of obligations under any other form of financial assistance or incentive program from Invest Nova Scotia
- Companies and their related entities limited to funding for one business only at the sole discretion of Invest Nova Scotia
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Yes, there are eligible expenses for this grant. The Export Development Program provides financial incentives to offset the cost of projects that assist a business’s ability to overcome barriers to export growth.
- Travel to a market outside Nova Scotia to visit clients, potential partners, and investors, or participate in a government trade mission
- Participate in an in-person or virtual trade show or conference
- Host foreign clients, potential partners, or investors at the business’s Nova Scotia facilities for the first time
- Hire a consultant or service provider to address challenges or barriers to selling products/services outside Nova Scotia
- Access services to improve competitiveness, including business matchmaking, market research, re-branding, and developing new promotional materials
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zones for this grant are linked to businesses located in Nova Scotia and engaged in commercial activities outside Nova Scotia.
- Be a Nova Scotia registered business in good standing.
- Have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia.
- Have most of its workforce currently residing in Nova Scotia.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for the Export Development Program grant in Nova Scotia:
- Nova Scotia registered business in good standing with a permanent establishment in the province
- Engaged in or planning to engage in commercial activities outside Nova Scotia with exportable products/services
- Nova Scotia workforce residency requirement
- Business plan and strategy for selling products/services outside Nova Scotia
- No outstanding legal actions/litigation, defaults, or financial assistance obligations
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Read the Export Development Program Guidelines and Export Development Program FAQ to ensure you have all required information available.
- Step 2: Ensure eligibility by checking if your business meets all the outlined criteria.
- Step 3: Contact your Regional Business Development Advisor to request your Invest Nova Scotia Customer Number if this is your first time applying or if you don’t know your Customer Number.
- Step 4: Begin the online application process.
- Enter your Invest Nova Scotia Customer Number and your associated email address to receive a one-time code.
- Enter the one-time code to verify your identity and gain access to the online form.
- Step 5: Select the application form that applies to your funding request.
- For Stream 1: Travel, Trade Shows, Conferences and Trade Missions, click on "APPLY NOW".
- For Stream 2: Consultant or Service Provider, click on "APPLY NOW".
- Step 6: Complete and submit your application before the deadline of January 14, 2025, at 5:00 PM AST, or before program funding is fully subscribed.
- Step 7: After project completion, submit a claim by clicking on "Submit Claim" for projects ending March 31, 2025.
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For the Export Development Program (EDP), there are specific requirements to complete the application process and two different forms depending on your needs.
- Applications are accepted from February 28, 2024, to January 14, 2025, at 5:00 PM AST, or until the funding is fully subscribed.
- Projects must be completed between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025.
- Two-step identity verification is required during the application process.
- If it's your first time applying or if you don’t know your Invest Nova Scotia Customer Number, you must contact your Regional Business Development Advisor.
- There are separate application forms for Travel/Trade Shows/Conferences/Trade Missions and hiring a Consultant or Service Provider.
- Submit a Claim for projects ending March 31, 2025, through the provided link.
grant_single_labels|contact
info@investnovascotia.ca
902.424.8670
Apply to this program
Export Development Program Summary
The Export Development Program (EDP) supports Nova Scotia businesses looking to expand their market reach beyond the province by offering financial incentives for travel, trade shows, trade missions, and consulting services. Open for the 2024-25 fiscal year, EDP aims to increase sales, improve competitiveness, and bring positive economic impacts to the region.
Comprehensive Guide to the Export Development Program
The Export Development Program (EDP) offered by Invest Nova Scotia provides a vital opportunity for businesses in Nova Scotia to grow their operations beyond provincial borders. Designed to assist companies in overcoming barriers to export growth, the program offers financial incentives for various strategic activities. Whether you're planning to travel for a trade mission or seeking expert consultancy services, EDP can help you achieve your business objectives. In this extensive guide, we will explore the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits of the program in detail.
What is the Export Development Program?
The Export Development Program is an initiative by Invest Nova Scotia aimed at encouraging local businesses to expand their markets internationally. The program supports projects that demonstrate the potential to increase sales outside Nova Scotia, improve a company's competitiveness, and contribute positively to the Nova Scotia economy. With two distinct streams of funding, the EDP provides grants to support travel for trade shows, conferences, trade missions, and consultancy services geared towards overcoming export barriers.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Export Development Program, businesses must meet the following criteria:
- Nova Scotia Registration: The business must be registered and in good standing with the Registry of Joint Stock Companies.
- Permanent Establishment: The business must have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia.
- Workforce Location: The majority of the workforce must reside in Nova Scotia, though exceptions may apply if the economic benefit to the province can be demonstrated.
- Export Activities: The business must be engaged in or have imminent plans to engage in commercial activities outside of Nova Scotia, with fully developed exportable products, services, technologies, and/or intellectual property.
- Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan outlining the strategy to sell products/services outside Nova Scotia, including target markets and distribution channels, must be provided.
- No Pending Legal Issues: The business should have no outstanding or pending legal actions that could impact its operations.
- No Defaults: The business and its related entities should not be in default of any obligations under any other financial assistance or incentive program from Invest Nova Scotia or the Province of Nova Scotia.
Funding Streams
The Export Development Program offers two funding streams to support your business growth:
Stream 1: Travel, Trade Shows, Conferences, and Trade Missions
This stream provides financial support for travel to markets outside of Nova Scotia. It includes:
- Market Visits: Travel to meet clients, potential partners, and investors.
- Trade Missions: Participation in government-led trade missions.
- Trade Shows and Conferences: Attendance at in-person or virtual trade shows and conferences.
- Client Visits: Hosting foreign clients, potential partners, or investors at your Nova Scotia facilities for the first time, subject to international travel regulations and health protocols.
Stream 2: Hire a Consultant or Service Provider
This stream offers financial support to hire experts who can help address challenges and barriers to exporting. Services can include:
- Business Matchmaking: Connecting with potential business partners and clients.
- Market Research: Conducting detailed market research to identify opportunities and challenges.
- Rebranding: Developing new logos and promotional materials to appeal to international markets.
- Strategy Development: Crafting strategies to improve competitiveness in target markets.
Funding Details
All eligible businesses can apply for up to a maximum of $15,000 CAD across the two streams. The funds can be used to cover a variety of costs such as travel expenses, consultancy fees, and promotional materials. It is essential to review the Program Guidelines for detailed information on eligible costs and minimum project requirements.
Application Process
The application intake period for EDP is from February 28, 2024, to January 14, 2025, at 5:00 PM AST, or until the program funding is fully subscribed. Applications will only be considered for projects completed between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing your application:
- Read the Guidelines: Review the Export Development Program Guidelines and the FAQ document to understand the requirements and prepare the necessary documentation.
- Identity Verification: Use the two-step verification process to apply. Enter your Invest Nova Scotia Customer Number and associated email address to receive a one-time code. Use this code to verify your identity and gain access to the online form.
- Choose the Appropriate Form: Select the application form that applies to your funding request: Stream 1 (Travel, Trade Shows, Conferences, and Trade Missions) or Stream 2 (Consultant or Service Provider).
- Submit the Application: Complete the online form with the required information and submit it before the deadline.
Submitting a Claim
Once your project is completed, you can submit a claim for reimbursement. The claim form is available online and should be submitted for projects ending by March 31, 2025. Ensure that all necessary documentation is attached to facilitate the processing of your claim.
Benefits of the Export Development Program
The EDP offers several benefits for businesses in Nova Scotia, including:
- Financial Support: Access up to $15,000 CAD in funding to support your export-related activities.
- Market Expansion: Gain opportunities to explore and enter new markets outside Nova Scotia.
- Competitiveness: Improve your business competitiveness through expert consultancy and strategic initiatives.
- Networking: Build valuable connections with international clients, partners, and investors.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, you can contact Invest Nova Scotia at:
- Phone: 1.800.260.6682 or 902.424.8670
- Email: info@investnovascotia.ca
You can also reach out to your Regional Business Development Advisor for personalized guidance and support.
Conclusion
The Export Development Program is a valuable resource for businesses in Nova Scotia looking to expand their operations beyond the province. By providing financial incentives for travel, trade shows, trade missions, and consultancy services, EDP helps businesses overcome barriers to export growth and improves their competitiveness in the global market. If your business meets the eligibility criteria, consider applying for the program to take advantage of the opportunities it offers.
For more information, visit the Invest Nova Scotia website, or contact your Regional Business Development Advisor to discuss how the Export Development Program can support your business growth.
