Federal
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) — 2026 Guide
Federal development agency for Atlantic Canada. Business Development Program (BDP) offers up to $500K for NB, NS, PEI, and NL businesses.
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) — Complete Guide 2026
What Is ACOA?
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is the federal government's economic development agency for New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador. ACOA is the most powerful funding resource for Atlantic businesses — it's the IRAP equivalent for the region but covers far more than just tech.
ACOA Business Development Program (BDP)
The BDP is ACOA's flagship program:
- Funding: Repayable contributions up to $500,000 (sometimes higher for strategic projects)
- Purpose: Business establishment, expansion, modernization, marketing, and export development
- Industries: Manufacturing, tourism, ocean tech, food processing, IT, and more
- Repayment: Repayable without interest over a flexible term (not a grant, but very favorable)
Other ACOA Programs
- Innovative Communities Fund: Up to $3M for community-led projects creating jobs and diversifying local economies
- Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation (REGI): Federal-wide program for high-growth businesses, delivered in Atlantic Canada by ACOA
- Jobs and Growth Fund: Supports Atlantic businesses building toward a clean economy
- Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth (ATIG): Export development support
Who Is Eligible?
- Businesses operating in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, or Newfoundland & Labrador
- Projects must create or maintain employment in Atlantic Canada
- For-profit businesses and some non-profits qualify
How to Apply for ACOA
- Contact your regional ACOA office — they are proactive and helpful
- Discuss your project with a business development officer before applying
- Submit application through the ACOA online portal or in-person
- Typical review: 6–12 weeks
Contact: acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does ACOA fund?
- ACOA's Business Development Program funds business establishment, expansion, modernization, and market development for Atlantic Canada businesses — up to $500,000 as a repayable interest-free contribution.
- Is ACOA a grant or a loan?
- ACOA's BDP provides repayable contributions — like an interest-free loan that you pay back over a negotiated term. Some programming is non-repayable. ACOA is still one of the best financing deals available for Atlantic businesses.
- Which provinces does ACOA cover?
- ACOA serves New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador. If you're in another province, your equivalent agency is PrairiesCan (MB/SK/AB), PacifiCan (BC), or CED (Quebec).
Related Programs
Need Signage or Labels for Your Business?
Once your grant is approved, your storefront, safety signs, and marketing materials can be covered by your CIP facade grant. Made in Canada. Ships fast.
Shop Canadian-Made Signs →