Closed
Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund
Funding for local climate action in Nova Scotia
Last Update: May 15, 2026
Funding available
$ 75,000 - $ 1,000,000
Timeline
- Closing date : April 22, 2025
Location
Canada
Overview
This program provides non-repayable funding for local climate action projects in Nova Scotia, with grants between $75,000 and $1,000,000 per project. It supports mitigation and adaptation initiatives such as emissions reduction, climate-ready infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and community planning.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Increase social or community impact
- Reduce environmental footprint
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
- Minimum amount : 75,000 $
Timeline
- Closing date : April 22, 2025
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Environment
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- 100% donations / grants
Scope
- Local
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Mitigation projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or remove carbon
- Adaptation projects that help communities prepare for climate change impacts
- Coastal adaptation, climate-ready infrastructure, and ecosystem-based solutions
- Community coordination, planning, and climate risk assessment projects
- Renewable energy, waste reduction, and carbon storage initiatives
Documents Needed
- Completed application form
- Project workbook with expenditures and milestones
- Applicant information and contact details
- Supporting documents such as letters of support, cost estimates, or studies
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Nova Scotia municipalities
- First Nations bands and tribal councils
- Post-secondary institutions
- Non-profit organizations operating in Nova Scotia
Eligible expenses
- Project staffing, salaries, and benefits directly tied to the work
- Consulting, engineering, accounting, and audit services
- Materials, supplies, equipment, and capital assets used for the project
- Transportation, rental, and facility costs needed for project delivery
- Accessibility supports, permits, certifications, and other direct project costs
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Existing operating costs and routine maintenance
- Property purchases, including land, buildings, and facilities
- Financing charges, legal fees, and loan interest
- Costs unrelated to direct project implementation
- GST/HST or provincial sales tax that can be recovered
Eligible geographic areas
- Nova Scotia
Processing and Agreement
- Submissions are first screened by Fund staff for completeness and basic eligibility.
- Eligible applications are reviewed by a Technical Advisory Committee of experts.
- Final funding decisions are made by the Nova Scotia Minister of Environment and Climate Change.
- Successful applicants receive a funding agreement with terms, reporting requirements, and payment details.
- Recipients must submit quarterly progress reports and a final impact report.
Additional information
- Projects may be strengthened by community support letters and partner commitments.
- Equity-deserving groups may receive tailored supports on a case-by-case basis.
- Applicants can receive guidance on permits and regulatory requirements.
- Additional climate funding options may be available through provincial support services.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund. 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 Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund?
This program provides non-repayable funding for local climate action projects in Nova Scotia, with grants between $75,000 and $1,000,000 per project. It supports mitigation and adaptation initiatives such as emissions reduction, climate-ready infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and community planning.
How much funding can be received?
Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund Funds up to $1,000,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund program?
To be eligible for the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund program, you must:
Based in Nova Scotia
Community priority project
Aligned with mitigation or adaptation goals
What expenses are eligible under Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund?
Mitigation projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or remove carbon
Adaptation projects that help communities prepare for climate change impacts
Coastal adaptation, climate-ready infrastructure, and ecosystem-based solutions
Community coordination, planning, and climate risk assessment projects
Renewable energy, waste reduction, and carbon storage initiatives
Who can I contact for more information about the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund?
You can contact Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities, Government of Nova Scotia (SCCF).
Where is the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund available?
The Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund program is available across Canada.
Is the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund is a Grant and Funding