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Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program
Funding for recreational trail development in Nova Scotia
Latest source updateLast Update: September 30, 2026Latest change: The Trail Funding Guide now reflects the 2027–2028 process, with updated EOI and application deadlines and revised submission and final-report instructions.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: September 30, 2026
Latest change: The Trail Funding Guide now reflects the 2027–2028 process, with updated EOI and application deadlines and revised submission and final-report instructions.
Trail Funding Guide Updated for 2027–2028
The 2027–2028 Trail Funding Guide replaces the 2026–2027 process and moves the key dates to September 1, 2026 for EOI opening, November 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm for the EOI deadline, February 1, 2027 at 11:59 pm for the application deadline, and April 1, 2027 for the OHVIF funding decision. The guide also updates the submission workflow and required materials, including revised EOI and application email instructions, a new checklist reference, added package attachments, and updated final-report guidance for in-kind logs, signatures, and separate OHVIF/RTE reporting.
Funding available
$ 150,000
Deadline
November 1, 2026
Opened September 1, 2026
Location
Nova Scotia, Canada
Who can apply
Registered community associations and non-profit societies with active status
See full eligibility
Overview
This program supports trail development, expansion, and capital upgrades for recreational trails in Nova Scotia. It offers up to $150,000 for eligible municipalities and not-for-profit organizations, with projects focused on new trails, expanded trails, and improved connectivity.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Increase social or community impact
- Enhance an existing program
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 150,000 $
- Up to 67% of project cost
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
- Developing new recreational trails
- Expanding recreational trails
- Upgrading existing trail infrastructure and connectivity
Documents Needed
- Expression of Interest form
- Completed application form
- Project budget with cost breakdown, projected revenues, and in-kind contributions
- Landowner permission or authorization documents
- Supporting documents such as maps, photos, quotes, and drawings if applicable
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Registered community associations and non-profit societies with active status
- Clubs and associations
- Mi’kmaq Band Councils
- Municipalities and villages
Eligible expenses
- Capital costs for trail development, expansion, and infrastructure upgrades
- Project design, planning, and engineering
- Essential fittings, buildings, and equipment needed to make the trail operational
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Large equipment purchases
- Land purchase
Eligible geographic areas
- Nova Scotia
Selection criteria
- Projects are reviewed by the OHVIF committee and/or CCTH.
- Projects must meet the program's funding guidelines.
How to apply
- Read and review the Infrastructure Trail Funding Guide and the program descriptions for the OHVIF and RTE programs
- Submit a complete Expression of Interest (EOI) form by email to ccthtrailgrants@novascotia.ca or ohvif.application@novascotia.ca
- Complete the one-on-one intake meeting to review project details and complete the Intake Form
- After approval of the expression of interest, submit the complete application package by email or by mail to 80 Walker Street, Suite 1, Truro, NS B2N 4A7
- Ensure the complete application with all supporting documents is signed by two authorized signing officers by 11:59 pm on February 1, 2026
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by the OHVIF committee and/or CCTH.
- Applicants are informed of the funding decision by email.
- Successful applicants receive a Terms and Conditions grant agreement.
- The first payment is made after the signed agreement is returned.
- Final payment depends on approval of the final report, if applicable.
Additional information
- Applicants may use a simplified single application to apply to multiple funders.
- EOI and application submissions receive email confirmation within 2 business days.
- Supporting documents may be requested during the project and for up to seven years after completion.
- Successful applicants receive a Terms and Conditions grant agreement and final reporting documents.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program Program
What is the Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program?
This program supports trail development, expansion, and capital upgrades for recreational trails in Nova Scotia. It offers up to $150,000 for eligible municipalities and not-for-profit organizations, with projects focused on new trails, expanded trails, and improved connectivity.
How much funding can be received?
Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program Funds up to 67% of admissible expenses, capped at $150,000 per project.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for this grant program is November 1, 2026. Applicants must submit their complete application before this date to be considered for funding.
Who is eligible for the Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program program?
To be eligible for the Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program program, you must:
Municipality or not-for-profit applicant
Public-access trail project
Recreational trail development or upgrades
What expenses are eligible under Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program?
Developing new recreational trails
Expanding recreational trails
Upgrading existing trail infrastructure and connectivity
Who can I contact for more information about the Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program?
You can contact Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage of Nova Scotia by email at ccthtrailgrants@novascotia.ca.
Where is the Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program available?
The Nova Scotia Recreational Trail Expansion Grant Program program is available the province of Nova Scotia.