Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP)

Q: What is the deadline to apply?

The application deadline for this grant program is February 28, 2026. Applicants must submit their complete application before this date to be considered for funding.

Q: Who is eligible for the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) program?

To be eligible for the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) program, you must: • Nova Scotia commercial entities in fishing, aquaculture, marine plant harvesting, or seafood buying/processing sectors • Nova Scotia-based industry groups or associations (depending on project nature) • Members of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance are not eligible

Q: Who can I contact for more information about the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP)?

You can contact Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation by email at asprague@perennia.ca or by phone at 902-955-0248.

Q: Where is the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) available?

The Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) program is available the province of Nova Scotia.

Q: Are startups eligible for the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) program?

Yes, startups are eligible to apply for the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) program.

Last Update: July 23, 2025

NS, Canada

Non-repayable funding for Nova Scotia seafood innovation enhancements

At a glance

Eligible Funding

Max. $99,900
Up to 70% of project cost

Timeline

Open Date : May 1, 2024
Closing date : February 28, 2026

Financing Type

Grant and Funding

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Funds Providers

Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation

Program status

Open

Overview

The Nova Scotia Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) provides up to $99,900 in non-repayable financial assistance per project to encourage innovation and infrastructure development in the fishing, aquaculture, marine plant harvesting, and seafood processing sectors. Eligible activities include research and development of new technologies, pilot testing of innovations, market introduction, and training related to new technology adoption.

Financing terms and conditions

Non-repayable financial assistance of up to $99,900 per project per fiscal year.
Maximum funding rate of 70% of total eligible project costs, depending on project nature.

Activities funded

Research and development of new products or technologies for the fish and seafood sector.
Piloting and testing of innovative solutions in harvesting, aquaculture, or processing.
Activities focused on introducing innovations to the market.
Adoption of new technologies, processes, or equipment to enhance quality, effectiveness, and sustainability.
Training related to the implementation of new technologies, processes, or equipment in the sector.

Eligibility

The applicant must be a commercial entity operating in Nova Scotia within the fishing, aquaculture, marine plant harvesting, or seafood buying/processing sector.
Industry groups or associations based in Nova Scotia may also be eligible depending on the nature and scope of the project.
The project must aim to increase productivity, competitiveness, quality, or sustainability in the fish and seafood sector through innovation or infrastructure initiatives.
All projects must be completed by December 31, 2025.

Who is eligible?

Nova Scotia commercial entities in the fishing sector
Nova Scotia commercial entities in the aquaculture sector
Nova Scotia commercial entities involved in marine plant harvesting
Nova Scotia commercial entities in seafood buying and processing
Nova Scotia-based industry groups or associations (depending on project type)

Who is not eligible

Members of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance.

Eligible expenses

Research and development costs for new innovations in the fish and seafood sector.
Pilot projects and testing expenses for new technologies or products.
Costs to introduce innovations to the market.
Purchase or adaptation of new technologies, processes, or equipment to improve sector effectiveness, quality, or sustainability.
Training expenses related to the adoption of new technologies, processes, or equipment.

Eligible geographic areas

Nova Scotia

How to apply

Review Program Guidelines

Download and read the NS ITAP Program Guidelines to understand eligibility, eligible activities, and funding criteria.
Ensure your project aligns with the program’s aims for innovation and infrastructure in the seafood sector.

Prepare Your Application

Develop a detailed project plan including objectives, scope, and expected outcomes.
Prepare a budget that outlines project costs and clearly shows the requested funding aligning with the program's criteria.
Gather any required supporting documents, such as letters of support or partnership agreements.

Complete Application Form

Access the NS ITAP Application form from Perennia’s website.
Fill in all sections of the application form accurately, following any given instructions.

Submit Your Application

Review the completed application form and all supporting documents to ensure completeness and accuracy.
Email the application and attached documents to Ashley Sprague at asprague@perennia.ca.

Confirmation of Submission

Wait to receive a confirmation of receipt from Ashley Sprague.
Keep a copy of all submitted documents and the confirmation email for your records.

Additional information

Intake is ongoing and will continue until all available funds are allocated.
All funded projects must be completed by December 31, 2025.
Program guidelines are available for detailed information on application requirements.

Contacts

asprague@perennia.ca

902-955-0248

NS, Canada

Apply to this program

Frequently Asked Questions about the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP) Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP). This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.

What is the Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP)?

How much funding can be received?

What expenses are eligible under Nova Scotia Seafood Innovation and Technology Adoption Program (NS-ITAP)?

Research and development of new products or technologies for the fish and seafood sector. Piloting and testing of innovative solutions in harvesting, aquaculture, or processing. Activities focused on introducing innovations to the market. Adoption of new technologies, processes, or equipment to enhance quality, effectiveness, and sustainability. Training related to the implementation of new technologies, processes, or equipment in the sector.