In Nova Scotia the agriculture sector plays a vital role in the economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the province’s food security. To support and nurture the province’s agriculture sector, the Government of Nova Scotia administers federal and provincial funding programs under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP).
As part of the SCAP, the federal, provincial, and territorial governments have committed $3.5 billion over five years to promote innovation, growth, and prosperity in the agriculture and agri-food sector. For Nova Scotia specifically, $46 million is set aside for funding aimed at developing sector capacity, fostering growth and competitiveness, addressing climate change and environment issues, developing markets and trade, as well as fostering resilience and public trust in the province.
With a variety of project purposes and funding amounts, SCAP Nova Scotia programs aim to stimulate growth, innovation, and sustainability within the agricultural community.
In this article, we break down the various SCAP Nova Scotia funding programs and explore their significance in fostering a vibrant and resilient agricultural industry for the province.
Investing in Nova Scotia’s Growth and Innovation
Recognizing the importance of investing in agricultural growth and innovation, the SCAP Nova Scotia funding programs offer financial assistance and resources to help farmers, producers, and industry organizations in Nova Scotia achieve their goals.
One of the key programs under SCAP is the federal Agri-Science Program, which encourages research and development in the agricultural sector. This program supports collaborative projects that address industry challenges and promotes innovative solutions to enhance productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness.
Furthermore, the SCAP encompasses the Agri-Innovate Program, designed to accelerate the commercialization and adoption of innovative agricultural products, practices, and technologies. This SCAP program assists Canadian businesses and organizations in developing and implementing new ideas, from concept to market-ready solutions.
By providing financial support for research and development, product testing, and market expansion, these two federal SCAP programs play a crucial role in transforming innovative ideas into tangible contributions to Nova Scotia’s agricultural landscape.
Enhancing Nova Scotia’s Environmental Sustainability
Aligning with federal goals for pursuing zero-emissions by 2025, sustainable agriculture is a key priority for Nova Scotia as the province aims to minimize the environmental impact of farming practices while ensuring long-term viability.
The SCAP Nova Scotia funding programs actively promote environmental sustainability through initiatives like the Get Growing Program. This program assists farmers to implement sustainable practices on their farms, such as soil and water conservation, nutrient management, and biodiversity conservation. It also offers funding for environmental assessments, farm energy efficiency projects, and other environmentally focused initiatives.
In addition to the Environmental Farm Plan Program, SCAP provides funding through the Environmental Stewardship and Climate Change Program. This program focuses on supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve carbon sequestration, and enhance climate change adaptation in the agricultural sector.
By incentivizing sustainable practices and offering financial support for environmental projects, SCAP funding programs can support farmers to become stewards of the land and contribute to a greener future for Nova Scotia.
Strengthening Nova Scotia’s Market and Development
Recognizing the importance of market access and development for agricultural businesses, SCAP Nova Scotia funding programs offer support to enhance competitiveness and expand market opportunities.
The SCAP Agri-Marketing Program plays a crucial role in this regard by providing financial assistance for marketing activities, such as advertising, branding, trade shows, and market research. Through this program, farmers and producers can strengthen their brand presence, explore new markets, and connect with consumers both within Nova Scotia and beyond.
Alternative SCAP Nova Scotia funding programs such as the Market Opportunities and Diversification Program offer funding support to help producers, processors, and industry associations with local and global export activities.
Funding and Small Business Grants for Nova Scotia
The SCAP Nova Scotia funding programs provide a vital lifeline to the agricultural community, empowering farmers, producers, and industry organizations to thrive in an evolving and flourishing sector.
From investing in growth and innovation to enhancing environmental sustainability and strengthening market access, these SCAP Nova Scotia programs offer diverse opportunities for financial support, resources, and expertise.
If your business is in Nova Scotia, make sure to read our Nova Scotia (NS) Budget 2023 Highlights blog to discover new business funding programs announced for the next few years that may support the growth and innovation of your business plans.