The Nova Scotia
Small Business Guide:

Your Complete Resource for a Flourishing
Business in Nova Scotia

This is your indispensable guide to starting, managing, and expanding a small business in Nova Scotia. The CanadianSME Small Business Hub team is dedicated to bringing you essential tools, resources, and insights to assist entrepreneurs in effectively navigating every phase of their business endeavour. The Nova Scotia Small Business Guide provides comprehensive support and business advisory to facilitate the success of businesses in this vibrant province.

Nova Scotia Small Business Guide

Nova Scotia is renowned for its conducive entrepreneurial ecosystem and ample resources. The province extends an appealing prospect for startups and small or medium businesses seeking to capitalize on the opportunities afforded by its multifaceted industries.

Nova Scotia’s economy is diverse and abounds in manifold key sectors like technology, ocean industries, agriculture, fisheries, and tourism which present various business opportunities. The province is also a leader in sustainable energy, creating unique opportunities in this growing field.

As a constituent of Atlantic Canada, Nova Scotia possesses a geographically advantageous position that offers businesses a strategic edge. This helps cater to markets spanning North America, Europe, and other regions.

Nova Scotia prides itself on possessing an exceptionally well-educated workforce. And it is made possible through the presence of prestigious universities and community colleges that offer top-notch education and research programs.

The government of Nova Scotia preemptively fosters a conducive environment for business by implementing a range of incentives, grants, and funding programs. The primary objective of these initiatives is to foster and promote the advancement, creativity, and long-term viability of entrepreneurial endeavours throughout the region.

With its low cost of living and plenty of cultural attractions, warm towns, and stunning scenery, Nova Scotia is a popular choice for anyone seeking a well-rounded but inexpensive way of life. No wonder it is ranked 4th cheapest province in Canada.

Explore the Best Availabe Resources for​

SMBs and StartUps in Nova Scotia

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) works to create opportunities for economic growth in Atlantic Canada by helping businesses become more competitive, innovative and productive, by working with diverse communities to develop and diversify local economies and by championing the strengths of Atlantic Canada. Together, with Atlantic Canadians, we are building a stronger economy.
At BDC, we know business owners. We’ve been working with them for more than 75 years. We know their challenges and we understand their needs. And we want them to grow and succeed.
Futurpreneur has been fueling the entrepreneurial passions of Canada’s young enterprise for over two decades. We are the only national, non-profit organization that provides financing, mentoring and support tools to aspiring business owners aged 18-39. Our internationally recognized mentoring program hand matches young entrepreneurs with a business expert from a network of more than 2,600 volunteer mentors.
From starting up and raising capital, to incubation and acceleration, export development and investment attraction, Invest Nova Scotia helps businesses seize opportunities. We support the growth and momentum of Nova Scotia businesses of all sizes, and we welcome businesses from elsewhere to join us here.
CEED, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education & Development, has been committed to advancing and supporting the spirit of entrepreneurship for more than 25 years. CEED is committed to delivering innovative programs and services that empower individuals and communities to achieve their full potential.

Login

Welcome to CanadianSME Small Business Hub