Municipal Funding for Permitting Fees or Infrastructure Projects

A typical submission period for when projects can request funding will be August - September. A typical application from submission to signed application is expected to take up to six months for review and processing through the various stages of application. Projects arising outside of that submission window will be considered on a case-by-case basis and if approved, will be automatically added to the next fiscal year's list if supporting it in the current fiscal year isn't possible. 

Application Process

The Capital Improvement and Development Policy provides the framework for submissions, reviews, and awards. For more details on how to apply, see below

• pdf Capital Improvement and Development Policy(558 KB)
• pdf Appendix A – Application for Financial Assistance Form(265 KB)
• pdf Appendix B – Initial Presentation & First Stage Evaluation Form(189 KB)
• pdf Appendix C – Second Stage Evaluation Form(158 KB)
• pdf Appendix D – Cost Eligibility(133 KB)
• pdf Appendix E - Projected Timeline Expected(232 KB)  
• pdf Appendix F – Terms and Conditions(269 KB)  (Contract)

Completed Submissions

Your completed submissions can be sent in person, by email or by fax to the attention of:
Municipal Clerk
Municipality of the County of Richmond
2357 Hwy 206, Arichat Nova Scotia B0E 1A0
Email:
Fax: 902-226-1510

Related Documentation

• Municipality of the County of Richmond Municipal Services Design and Construction Specifications
• Standard Specifications for Municipal Services as published by the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association, the Nova Scotia Consulting Engineers Association and the Joint Committee on Contract Documents;
• Atlantic Canada Wastewater Guidelines for Collection, Treatment and Disposal
• Atlantic Canada Guidelines for the Supply, Treatment, Storage, Distribution, and Operation of Drinking Water Supply Systems
• Municipality of the County of Richmond Strategic Plan

 

Additional Grants and Funding Opportunities

 

The following funding opportunities are provided for your review.  Please note the Municipality of the County of Richmond does not administer these applications.  All questions should be directed to the designated funding body.

 

Categories include:

• Accessibility
• Arts, Culture & Heritage
• Climate Change & Sustainability
• Community Development
• Economic Development
• Emergency Services & Safety
• Employment
• Entrepreneurs/ Entrepreneurship
• Housing
• Infrastructure
• Other
• Recreation & Health
• Seniors
• Transportation 

Accessibility Funding

 Enabling Accessibility Fund 

Department - Organization: Employment and Social Development Canada

Description: This funding opportunity aims to make communities and workplaces across Canada more accessible for persons with disabilities. It will fund new construction, renovation and/or retrofit activities that will contribute to reducing waitlists for persons with disabilities to access programs, services and/or support.

• Youth Innovation Component: Led by youth between 15 to 30 years of age at the time of the application in collaboration with municipalities or not-for-profit organizations. Up to $12,000 in funding. Deadline is October 6th, 2025.
• Small Project: Up to $125,000 in funding. Closed on July 26th, 2024.
• Mid-sized projects: $500,000- $3,000,000 in funding. Closed on  December 13, 2023.

Deadline: See above.

Contact: 

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/enabling-accessibility-fund.html

 

Arts, Culture & Heritage     

Heritage Development Fund – Conservation Work Grants

Department - Organization: NS Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

Description: A provincial grant program that provides up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $10,000 for provincially registered heritage properties and $7,500 for municipally registered heritage properties. The program supports conservation work that helps preserve the heritage value and structural integrity of designated sites.

Eligible conservation work may include (but is not limited to):

• Buildings or structures located on a registered heritage property that have heritage value are eligible for proposed conservation work projects that better conserve their exterior appearance and/or core structure integrity, or
• Cemeteries registered as a heritage property are eligible for only conservation work projects of its monuments that are both 1) in situ and 2) at least 100 years old.

Deadline: Typically April 1 each year

Contact: 

Website: Heritage Development Fund 

 

Strategic Development Initiative

Department – Organization: NS Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

Description: The Strategic Development Initiative provides project-based funding to heritage-sector organizations, including archives, community museums, municipal governments and not-for-profits, that seek to build capacity, sustainability and public engagement through strategic planning, training, audience development and partnerships. Funding supports initiatives such as developing interpretive plans, marketing studies, leadership training, new exhibit development, retail expansion for Nova Scotia-made products and collaboration projects across the heritage sector. Funding covers up to 75% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $10,000.

Example(s):

• A municipality partnering with a local heritage society to develop a new interpretive exhibit and marketing strategy.
• A community museum collaborating with other regional museums to deliver a province-wide educational campaign.

Deadline: Ongoing intake from April 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025. Projects must be completed by March 31, 2026.

Contact: 

Website: Heritage Funding

 

Digital Museums Canada Investment Program

Department - Organization: Digital Museums Canada

Description: Funding is provided for organizations seeking to develop an online project. There are two streams. 1) The Digital Projects stream helps organizations from the ground up, in collaboration with a web development agency of their choice. Up to $250,000 is available. 2) The Community Stories stream provides funding and mentorship to develop a Community Stories website using their website-building platform. Up to $25,000 is available. 

Deadline: December 1st, 2025.

Contact: 

Website: Digital Museums Canada Investment Program

 

Creative Industries Fund

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

Description: Creative and cultural businesses and non-profit organizations can apply for funding from the Creative Industries Fund to help grow the export capacity of Nova Scotian artists and creative producer.
The Creative Industries Fund helps creative and cultural businesses and non-profit organizations:

• promote distribution of creative content to national and international markets
• increase the exports of Nova Scotian creative products
• build brand awareness and increase audience engagement in new markets
• diversify and increase revenue streams
• increase the export potential for Nova Scotian cultural products outside of Nova Scotia

Deadline:December 01,  2025.

Contact: Phone: 902-222-3069

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-build-export-capacity-culture-sector-creative-industries-fund

 

Culture Innovation Fund

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage 

Description: The Culture Innovation Fund supports innovative organizational change through adaptiveness and support activities that use creativity and culture to address social issues and opportunities within communities.

Projects supported are those that address challenges to better serve and grow communities served (for example, social, cultural, organizational and environmental). Applicants can apply for a specific project or group of related activities that will provide the most significant impact to their organization and enhance access to arts and culture activities in their community.

You need to use the funding to:

• support new arts and cultural activities that promote healthy communities by focusing on artistic and social outcomes
• support projects that use creativity, arts and culture to develop and implement initiatives that bring people together and promote equity, diversity and inclusion
• support an organization in planning for inclusive and sustainable growth
• improve an organization's social impact or its ability to monitor, assess and report positive impact in their communities
• allow organizations to support community engagement
• allow organizations to identify, address and challenge organizational or program delivery issues
• support training and development of staff and volunteers
• support an organization's ability to access new and diversify existing revenue sources

Funding amount: The Culture Innovation Fund has 2 streams of funding. It may fund up to $15,000 of eligible costs (you don’t need matching funds). Or it may fund up to 75% of eligible costs to a maximum of $50,000 (you need to fund at least 25% of eligible costs). You can only apply for funding from 1 stream

Deadline:  December 01, 2025

Contact: Phone: 902-222-7320

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-arts-and-culture-activities-community-culture-innovation-fund

 

Screenwriters Development Fund

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

Description: Production companies can apply for funding from the Screenwriters Development Fund to develop scripts by Nova Scotian writers for film and television.

The Screenwriters Development Fund helps:

• create and develop film and TV scripts by Nova Scotia filmmakers
• strengthen the film and TV industry by developing Nova Scotia filmmakers, writers and producers
• support diversity, inclusion and gender parity

Funding amount

The Screenwriters Development Fund may fund up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $20,000 for each project. The applicant needs to fund the balance of the costs.

Deadline:October 15 2025.

Contact: Phone: 902-222-3069

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-develop-scripts-nova-scotian-writers-film-and-television-screenwriters-development-fund

 

Commemorative Partnership Program 

Department - Organization: Veterans Affairs Canada 

Description: 

• Community Engagement: Supports remembrance initiatives including commemorative activities or the development of commemorative materials. Funding of $5000-$25000, 50% of eligible expenditures. Applications continue to be accepted on an on-going basis for requests of $10,000 or less and should be submitted at least three months before the project start date. Funding up to $25,000 has a deadline of April 30th, 2025.
• Community War Memorial: Supports the construction, restoration or expansion of a community war memorial. Small restoration projects, up to $10,000, are accepted year-round. Funding up to $25,000 has a deadline of December 1st, 2025.
• No. 2 Construction Battalion commemorative projects: To commemorate the largest all-Black unit created in the history of Canada. Up to $50,000 for projects & events. Deadline January 31st, 2026.

To commemorate World War II's 80th anniversary, the Canadian Fallen Heroes Foundation is offering to help municipalities wishing to honour their fallen soldiers. Please consider joining this initiative.

Deadline: See above.

Email:

Website: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/get-involved/funding-programs

 

Local Festivals – Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

Department - Government of Canada

Description: Building Communities through Arts and Heritage — Local Festivals component provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists; local artisans; local heritage performers or specialists; and local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultural carriers. This includes the celebration of LGBTQ2+ communities and Indigenous cultural celebrations.

Eligible projects and events

Applicants may request up to 100 per cent of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $200,000 for festivals that:

present the work of local artists, local artisans, local heritage performers, and local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultural carriers;

actively involve members of the local community; and

are intended for and accessible to the general public.

Requests for funding consistently exceed our available resources. Submitting an application does not guarantee that your project will be funded nor that the amount requested will be the amount awarded.

Deadline: 

• January 31 – for festivals starting between September 1 and December 31 of the same calendar year
• April 30 – for festivals starting between January 1 and June 30 of the next calendar year
• October 15 – for festivals starting between July 1 and August 31 of the next calendar year

Contact: 

Telephone:

819-997-0055
1-866-811-0055 (toll-free)

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/building-communities/festivals.html

     

Na-mi-quai-ni-mak Community Support Fund

Department : National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation 

Description: Small grants to support community-based healing and remembrance

The act of remembering will shape generations to come….

Funds are available to support Indigenous communities, Survivor Organizations, registered non-profits, and others with small grants for memorial activities.

Communities and Residential School Survivors know what activities best support healing, memorials and remembrance in their communities. The program will support communities in pursuing the activities they feel are best.

Some possible activities could include, but are not limited to:

Community-led healing gatherings.

Ceremonial activities (memorial feasts, give-aways, etc.).

Memorial or commemorative markers (healing gardens, murals, carvings, plaques, etc.).

Maintenance of burial sites (fencing, cutting back overgrowth, etc.).

Contact:

Toll Free: 1-855-415-4534

Ph: 1-204-914-4757

Fax: 1-204-474-7533

Email:

Deadline: Open Application Process

Website:https://nctr.ca/memorial/na-mi-quai-ni-mak/na-mi-quai-ni-mak-community-support-fund/

 

Musication, Musical showcases (exclusively dedicated to French-speaking communities outside Quebec) 

Department:  Musication

Description:The main objective of this program is to stimulate the programming of Francophone artists from official language minority communities in the context of major events and tours in order to promote the development of their professional careers. It also aims to promote access for Canadian Francophone communities to musical performances in their language.

This first component aims to support artists from the Canadian Francophonie, from Francophone minority communities, selected by an event to present an official showcase,  paid or not,  in front of professionals. Exceptionally, an association or organization from Francophone communities could take advantage of this program to present a minimum of 3 artists from Francophone minority communities in the context of a major event  The same applies to an English-language event held in a province other than Quebec that wishes to present a minimum of 3 artists from Francophone minority communities in the context of its event.

Contact: 

514 861- 8444

1 800 861 5561

Deadline: Open Application Process

Website:https://musicaction.ca/programmes/vitrines-musicales-2/volet-1-vitrine-nationale/

 

Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program

Department: Government of Canada 

Description: 

The Events component of the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) provides funding to community-based events that:

• promote intercultural or interfaith understanding
• promote discussions on multiculturalism, diversity, racism and religious discrimination
• celebrate a community’s history and culture such as heritage months recognized by Parliament

Expected results are that participants and communities will gain knowledge, develop strategies and take action to:

• increase awareness of Canada’s cultural diversity
• increase awareness of issues affecting full participation in society and the economy, related to culture, ethnicity and/or religion
• increase capacity within communities to address racism and discrimination

Who can apply

The Department of Canadian Heritage is implementing enhanced protocols and processes for funding programs that support Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy to help ensure that organizations and individuals that espouse racist, antisemitic and other forms of hateful content will not be eligible to receive government funding.

To be eligible for funding, organizations or groups must be:

• Canadian not-for-profit organizations, associations and unincorporated groups
• Canadian incorporated and unincorporated municipalities and townships with a population of up to 10,000
• Indigenous not-for-profit organizations (First Nations, Inuit or Métis)
• Indigenous governments, band councils or tribal councils

Eligible events

To be eligible for funding your event must meet all of the following requirements:

• establish concrete opportunities for positive interaction among cultural, religious or ethnocultural communities
• demonstrate involvement of more than one single cultural, religious or ethnocultural community or target a single cultural community and provide opportunities to engage with and foster pride in the community’s history, culture and/or identity, such as heritage months recognized by Parliament
• help foster intercultural or interfaith understand

Contact: 

819-997-0055
1-866-811-0055 (toll-free)

Deadline: There is no fixed deadline to submit a funding application under the Events component of the MARP, as applications are accepted on a continuous basis. However, to ensure timely assessment, it is advised that your application be submitted 18 weeks prior to the proposed event start date. Should you intend to apply in less than 18 weeks, you must contact the program through the appropriate generic email account for your region. Funding applications must be received prior to the event start date.

 

Exhibition Circulation Fund — Museums Assistance Program

Department:  Government of Canda 

Description: The Exhibition Circulation Fund component of the Museums Assistance Program (MAP) assists museums with the costs related to the hosting of travelling exhibitions originating from another Canadian non-profit organization, an Indigenous organization or from a federal heritage institution, and the borrowing of artefacts for exhibition purposes from any federal institution.

Who can apply

Applicants must be:

1. incorporated, non-profit Canadian museums who meet all of the criteria of 1 of the following categories:

• applicants for hosting a travelling exhibitionmust: 
  • provide services to the public year-round
  • employ the equivalent of 1 full-time, paid professional staff
  • have policies for key museum functions
• applicants for borrowing artefactsmust: 
  • have policies for key museum functions
  • have a loan agreement or a letter of intent with a federal institution

or

2. Indigenous governing bodies or organizations with a mandate to preserve and support Indigenous heritage

Contact:

514 861- 8444

1 800 861 5561

Deadline: Ongoing basis

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/museums-assistance/exhibition-circulation.html

 

Development - Canada Arts Presentation Fund

Department: Government of Canda 

Description: The Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) – Development stream provides financial assistance to support the emergence of arts presenters and presenter-support organizations for under-served communities or artistic practices.

Recognizing the uniqueness and value of Indigenous cultural expression and the richness that cultural diversity brings to the quality of life, we have expanded the eligibility criteria for this component to include unincorporated organizations, as well as, ad hoc groups from racialized and Indigenous communities.

Applicants must be:

• not-for-profit organizations, incorporated under the Canada Corporations Act or the Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act (or under corresponding provincial or territorial legislation);
• unincorporated organizations, as well as, ad hoc groups from ethnocultural and Indigenous communities;
• provincial, territorial or municipal institutions (including agencies and public educational institutions that promote or organize presentation activities for the public); and
• Indigenous peoples’ institutions and Status or Non-Status Indians, Inuit and Métis organizations.

Contact:

Email 

Telephone

819-997-0055

1-866-811-0055 (toll-free)

Deadline: Ongoing basis

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/arts-presentation-fund/development.html

 

Community Memorials Programme

Department - Organization: National Wall of Remembrance Association

Description: The Community Memorials Programme is one of the NWORA’s secondary objectives to help communities across Canada either repair/refurbish their local community memorials or build them if they do not already exist. Hundreds of memorials have been built in small towns, villages, and cities across Canada, especially after World War I, and many need repair.

Deadline: October 1st, April 1st (Annually)

Contact: Bruce Ewing,

Website: Community Memorials Programme 

 

Local Festivals – Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage

Description: The program provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists; local artisans; local heritage performers or specialists; and local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultural carriers. This includes the celebration of LGBTQ2+ communities and Indigenous cultural celebrations. Applicants may request up to 100 percent of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $200,000.

Deadline:

October 15 – for festivals starting between July 1 and August 31 of the next calendar year.

January 31 – for festivals starting between September 1 and December 31 of the same calendar year.

April 30 – for festivals starting between January 1 and June 30 of the next calendar year.

Contact:

Website: Local Festivals – Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

   

Community Anniversaries

Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage

Description: The program provides funding to local groups for non-recurring local events, with or without a minor capital project. Funding is available for non-recurring events that mark the 100th anniversary or greater, in increments of 25 years (e.g., 125th, 150th); of a significant local historical event or personality. Applicants may request up to 100% of eligible expenses to a maximum of $200,000. See the website for specific requirements of events.

Deadline: April 30 for events that will occur during the next calendar year. For example, if your anniversary is in August 2024, you must apply by April 30, 2023.

Email: 

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/building-communities/anniversaries.html

 

Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program

Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage

Description: The program provides funding to community-based events that: A) promote intercultural or interfaith understanding. P) Promote discussions on multiculturalism, diversity, racism and religious discrimination. C) celebrate a community’s history and culture such as heritage months recognized by Parliament. A new priority in the program for 2024 will include celebrations and events that recognize the history, culture, accomplishments, contributions and future of Black Canadians and their communities. Municipalities with a population of up to 10,000 are eligible to apply. You can watch a video here for tips on your application.

*The department has consolidated its two programs, the Community Support, Multiculturalism, and Anti-Racism Initiatives Program and the Anti-Racism Action Program, under a single program.*

Deadline: For the events stream, there is no fixed deadline to submit a funding application, they are accepted continuously. However, to ensure timely assessment, it is advised that your application be submitted 18 weeks before the proposed event start date. 

Email:

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/multiculturalism-anti-racism.html

 

Canada Cultural Spaces Fund

Department - Organization: Federal Department of Canadian Heritage

Description: The objectives of the fund are to contribute to: improved physical conditions for professional arts and heritage-related collaboration, creation, presentation, preservation, and exhibition; and to increase and improve access for Canadians to arts and culture. The CCSF achieves these objectives by supporting the construction and/or renovation of arts and/or heritage facilities, including creative hubs; and the acquisition of specialized equipment and the development of feasibility studies for the construction or renovation of arts and/or heritage facilities, including creative hubs.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Email: 

Website: Application Guidelines – Canada Cultural Spaces Fund

  

Legacy Fund

Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage

Description: The program provides funding for community-initiated capital projects that restore, renovate, or transform an existing building or exterior space intended for community use. Recipients may receive up to 50% of eligible project expenses up to a maximum of $500,000.

Example(s): Such as a statue, community hall, monument, garden or work of art.

Deadline: Continuous intake.  Projects must be submitted before the anniversary date of the event or personality to be commemorated.

Email: 

Website: Legacy Fund 

  

McLean Foundation Grant

Department - Organization: The McLean Foundation

Description: They endeavour to maintain a flexible policy, with particular emphasis on projects showing promise of general social benefit but which may initially lack broad public appeal. Normally in the areas of social welfare, education, environmental conservation and the arts.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: https://www.grantinterface.ca/Home/Logon?urlkey=mcleanfdn

 

 

Tourism Growth Program in Atlantic Canada

Department - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - ACOA 

Description: The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) aims to help Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small and medium-sized businesses, and non-profit organizations to develop local tourism products and experiences that position Canada as an all-seasons destination of choice for domestic and international travellers.

Eligible applicants

Eligible applicants include:

• incorporated small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the tourism industry
• Indigenous-owned businesses (including Indigenous sole proprietorships) or Indigenous tourism organizations
• non-profit organizations (NPOs), including tourism associations and organizations, and post-secondary institutions
• governments (municipal/provincial/territorial and related entities)

Eligible activities

Eligible projects should provide added value to existing activities in the tourism industry and focus on business and economic growth. Priority may be given to projects that:

• Increase tourism benefits for communities by driving visitation from urban centres to rural areas
• Support the Indigenous tourism industry
• Support economic, environmental, and cultural sustainability
• Support active outdoor experiences 
• Extend the tourism season (projects that promote and/or develop products, services, or experiences, with an aim to increase tourism activity outside the traditional high season or to extend their services year-round)
• Complement supports provided through provincial/territorial programs

Other activities could be eligible.  For further information, please contact us directly.

Example(s): Does not fund capital projects. Previous grantees can be viewed on their website.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact:

1-888-576-4444.

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/tourism-growth-program.html

 

Climate Change & Sustainability

Atlantic Salmon Conservation

Department - Organization: The Foundation for Conservation of Atlantic Salmon

Description: Municipalities are eligible to apply for funding to support wild Atlantic salmon conservation initiatives. The fund supports projects that protect wild Atlantic salmon, as well as preserve the important river cultures and economies of communities across Atlantic Canada and Quebec. With $1.5 million dollars available for distribution this year, they look forward to seeing applications from municipalities to aid in the conservation of this essential species. They invite you to take advantage of this funding opportunity to help ensure wild Atlantic salmon remains a staple in Canadian identity, culture and economy for generations to come. 

Deadline: November 14, 2025

Contact:  or call 506-455-9900

Website: https://www.salmonconservation.ca/

 

Growing Canada’s Community Canopies

Department - Organization: The Federation of Canadian Municipalities 

Description: The program addresses common barriers local governments and communities face when pursuing tree canopy expansion projects, including insufficient staff capacity, gaps in knowledge and financing, addresses common barriers local governments and communities face when pursuing tree canopy expansion projects, including insufficient staff capacity, gaps in knowledge and financing. The program is a $291M initiative that will support planting at least 1.2 million trees.

Deadline:  September 18, 2025

Contact:  or book a meeting with an advisor. 

Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/trees

 

Local Leadership for Climate Adaptation (under GMF)

Department - Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities 

Description:  GMF’s Local Leadership for Climate Adaptation (LLCA) initiative provides funding and skills development support to local governments to adapt and build long-term resiliency to the impacts of climate change. By 2031, this $530M initiative will fund more than 1,400 municipal activities. 

• Climate-Ready Plans and Processes– Integration of equitable and inclusive climate resilience into municipal plans, processes and management systems, such as asset management systems planning. Up to a maximum of $140,000.
  • Deadline: September 16, 2025
• Feasibility Study: Adaptation in Action– Provides grants of up to $70,000 to support studies that assess the viability and success potential of municipal climate adaptation projects. These studies help determine whether a project is technically, financially, and socially feasible before applying for implementation funding.
  • Deadline: October 20, 2025
• Implementation Projects: Adaptation in Action– Provides grants up to $1 million (covering 60% of eligible costs, with incentives up to 100%) to support on-the-ground municipal climate adaptation projects. Eligible measures include improving infrastructure to withstand extreme weather, reducing community impacts through new installations, modifying landscapes to reduce wildfire risk and enhancing municipal services to better support vulnerable populations.
  • Deadline: Round 1: July 8-August 19, 2025; Round 2: August 20-October 9, 2025
• Residential Resilience Financing– Provides grants of up to $150,000 (covering up to 80% of eligible costs) to help municipalities develop local financing programs that support homeowners in investing in climate adaptation solutions, such as protection from flooding, wildfires, and other extreme weather risks.
  • Note: In Nova Scotia, funding is limited to flood-related resiliency measures only.

• Deadline: January 15, 2026

Deadline: See above.

Contact:  or book a meeting with an advisor. 

Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/local-leadership-climate-adaptation

 

Thriving Forests Program

Department - Organization: Clean Foundation

Description: Thriving Forests is a sister program to the federal 2Billion Trees program. This program can help municipalities develop projects and connect them with service suppliers and local seed stock inventory. All projects must be planting incremental trees, meaning above and beyond any current legally-required tree planting activities, and not be part of business-as-usual commercial forestry activities. 

Example(s): Examples of successful projects may include (but are not limited to): Reforesting an area after a wildfire, reforesting an urban area that has fallen to disease, afforestation on retired agricultural land, restoration of legacy forest landings or forest roads, urban planting projects, initiatives to improve biodiversity and habitat resilience, reforesting an area where disturbances impact a critical habitat, infill planting or underplanting to increase biodiversity of an area.

Deadline: Open for expression of interest

Contact: 

Website: Thriving Forests Program

 

Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund

Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada

Description: The fund will provide up to $1.5 billion in federal funding over 7 years for clean energy and transportation infrastructure projects necessary to enable the sustainable development and expansion of critical minerals in Canada. Designed to: Unlock new critical mineral resources, support improved environmental performance at mine sites, facilitate market access for critical minerals, and strengthen supply chains (i.e., by connecting resources to midstream processing and refining, and downstream manufacturing). Two streams: preconstruction and project development activities (Stream 1 – closed June 27, 2025) and infrastructure deployment activities (Stream 2).

Stream 2: Shovel-ready infrastructure deployment – Supports construction-ready projects that enable critical mineral development through transportation or clean energy infrastructure.

Example(s):

• Construction or upgrade of roads, bridges, or transmission lines that connect critical mineral sites to processing facilities.
• Clean energy projects like wind or solar installations supporting mine operations.
• Retrofits of existing renewable energy projects (including hardware and software) to enable grid connection and integration.
• Infrastructure-related engagement and training initiatives with local and Indigenous communities.

Deadline: Expression of Interest due January 5, 2026; full applications accepted on a continuous basis until March 4, 2026.

Contact: 

Website: Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund

 

Charged

Department - Organization: Pollution Probe/ Natural Resources Canada

Description: Pollution Probe is launching a new round of funding in NS. Municipalities are eligible for 50% funding on installation and purchase of EV chargers, up to 100,000$ per site. Installation must occur before March 31st, 2026.

Deadline: First come, first served basis.

Contact:   The program is in partnership with FLO. Clément Rebotier () from FLO is available to help with the application process.

Website: Charged (as of April 8th, 2025, the website has not been updated to reflect the new round of funding, contact  for details)

  

Incentives for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Zero-Emission Vehicles

Department - Organization: Transport Canada 

Description: The iMHZEV Program offers point-of-sale incentives for Canadian organizations and businesses (this includes municipalities) who buy or lease an eligible MHZEV. The incentive will be applied at the point-of-sale by the dealership or other authorized sellers such as automakers and/or vehicle finishers/distributors once they have confirmed your eligibility. As part of the eligibility verification, you will need to complete the Organization Consent Form. Once your eligibility is confirmed, you will need to complete the Incentive Received Form and then, the incentive will appear directly on the bill of sale or lease agreement of the eligible MHZEVs. 

You can search for eligible vehicles here.

Deadline: Rebates are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and will remain available until the program budget is exhausted.

Contact: 

Website: https://tc.canada.ca/en/road-transportation/innovative-technologies/zero-emission-vehicles/incentives-medium-heavy-duty-zero-emission-vehicles

 

Climate Ready Infrastructure Service

Department - Organization: Environment and Climate Change Canada

Description: CRIS is a new capacity-building initiative that connects local governments and communities with top climate experts. This free service (worth $20k+) aims to help municipalities across Canada integrate low-carbon resilience into their infrastructure projects, ensuring that they are better prepared to address the challenges of a changing climate. Experts include engineers, architects, planners, climate scientists, climate equity specialists with RP credential, LEED accreditation, ISI, Envision certification and more. Complete the online form (Takes 10 minutes). 

Eligibility: Local communities with a population of approximately 30,000 or less are eligible, including an Indigenous Governing Body or authority, or unincorporated communities within a regional district. 

Examples:

• Climate Adaptation: If your community has plans to construct or retrofit housing or infrastructure, CRIS experts can help bring leading science to ensure that the project is resilient to climate change impacts. For example, if a community plans to replace a seawall or riverside bike/pedestrian path, experts from the roster can help to evaluate the conditions and offer options to reduce the likelihood that the new path is destroyed by future high tides or flooding.
• Climate Mitigation: If your community is building a new community facility, experts from the service can help to ensure it is being designed to be energy efficient, utilize renewable energy sources, or be a low-carbon facility in other ways.
• Combination Low-Carbon and Climate Resilience: Projects may offer opportunities to both address climate-related risks and to use renewable energy and low-carbon materials. For instance, a low-carbon new community facility may also be located and designed to serve as a ‘resilience hub’ or

Deadline: Currently accepting projects.

Contact: Complete the online form. Questions contact:

Website: https://climatereadycanada.ca/apply-now

        

Natural Asset Management Roadmap

Department - Organization: Intact Public Entities/ Natural Assets Initiative

Description: Intact Public Entities (IPE) has announced a new partnership with Natural Assets Initiative (NAI) to sponsor the Natural Asset Management Roadmap Program for municipalities (for those insured by Intact). Developed and led by NAI, the program provides direction, support and guidance to local governments as they develop roadmaps to account for natural assets in their asset management strategies. Roadmaps have proven to be a relatively low-effort, high-impact activity requiring no more than a few days of effort for the project lead and a few hours from the other staff participants; yet it provides a strong foundation for participants to get started on Natural Asset Management with confidence that they are on the right track.

Deadline: Open call for EOI

Contact:  

Website: https://www.intactpublicentities.ca/natural-asset-management-roadmap-program

 

2Billion Trees

Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada

Description: The program provides financial support to organizations to plant trees over 10 years. Please also see the Clean Foundation's sister program, the Thriving Forests Program.

Deadline: Open call for proposals

Contact: 

Website: 2Billion Trees

 

Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities

Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada

Description: Provides funding for clean energy projects in rural and remote communities. Including biomass heating, district heating, and combined heat and power systems. There is also a stream for research, development, and demonstration projects. A rural community is defined as a community with a population of fewer than 5,000 people and a population density of fewer than 400 persons per square kilometre and not connected to the North American piped natural gas network. Remote community refers to a community not currently connected to the North American electrical grid or the piped natural gas network and is a permanent or long-term (5 years or more) settlement with at least 10 dwellings.

Example(s): Fort Nelson, BC: This investment will focus on community energy planning, feasibility modelling, design, permitting and resource assessment to support a geothermal electricity generation project under the Emerging Renewable Power Program.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: https://forms-formulaires.alpha.canada.ca/en/id/clj8xxq1o00bsyq658jldwr5l

Website: Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities

  

Energy Rebates & Solutions

Department - Organization: Efficiency Nova Scotia

Description: These programs include rebates, for a variety of measures to make municipal operations more efficient. Non-electric retrofits, which allow for the installation of heat pumps in municipal buildings. For many smaller municipalities, all of their facilities (except water and wastewater treatment facilities, arenas and indoor pools) will likely qualify for this program. There is also support for engineered studies and models. You can use their online form to explain what you’re looking to achieve.

Deadline: Continuous intake 

Website: Energy Rebates & Solutions

 

Environmental Damages Fund

Department - Organization: Environment and Climate Change Canada

Description: Supports projects that benefit the natural environment, achieve restoration of damage to the natural environment and wildlife conservation, in a cost-effective way. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, followed by environmental quality improvement initiatives, research and development on environmental restoration and improvement, education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment.

Example(s): Install reef balls in the Halifax Harbour to create and restore marine habitat. These reef balls will complete a network of over 7.5 hectares of reef structures in Halifax Harbour.

Deadline: There is now an open call for applications.

Contact: 

Website: Environmental Damages Fund

   

Farm Credit Canada Community Fund

Department - Organization: Farm Credit Canada

Description: FCC Community Funding is to help enhance communities. Eligible organizations can apply for up to $10,000 in FCC Community Funding annually and applications are accepted year-round.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: Farm Credit Canada Community Fund

 

Green Choice Program:

Will open for applications on Dec 15. In this program, large energy buyers, including municipalities, can purchase up to 100% of their electricity from local renewable energy sources. Information session in Jan. https://novascotiagcp.com/participant-resources

 

Green Energy Financing/ Community Efficiency Financing (PACE Programs)

Department - Organization: FCM & Clean Foundation & PACE Atlantic

Description: Homeowners can access low-interest financing to cover the cost of these upgrades through PACE programs offered by their municipalities. Each municipality can have their own PACE program or can join a turnkey program. Such as the Clean Energy Financing program created by Clean Foundation, or PACE Atlantic. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities administers the Community Efficiency Financing program that offers loans and grants to help municipalities across Canada deliver energy efficiency and solar power financing programs for residential properties, including PACE.

Deadline: Continous

Contact: 

Website: Green Energy Financing/ Community Efficiency Financing (PACE Programs)

 

Green Freight Program

Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada

Description:  The program will help fleets reduce their fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from on-road freight through fleet energy assessments, fleet retrofits, engine repowers, best-practice implementation and the purchase of low-carbon vehicles. There are two streams, municipal governments are listed as eligible applicants on both streams. Stream 1 of the program provides grant funding up to a maximum of $250,000 per Applicant. Stream 2 contributes up to 50% of total project costs, up to a maximum of $5 million per project.

Example(s): Stream 1 includes Third-Party Fleet Energy Assessments; and/or Truck/Trailer Equipment Retrofits. Stream 2: They can include, but are not limited to, the purchase of fueling equipment, and costs associated with site preparation and networking equipment; however, land is not considered an eligible expenditure under this program. The retrofitting or upgrading of existing capital assets is included under this stream.

Deadline: Stream 1 is a continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: Green Freight Program

      

Max Bell Foundation Grants

Department - Organization: Max Bell Foundation

Description: The Max Bell Foundation makes grants to support projects that are designed to inform public policy. They do so across four program areas: Education; Environment; Health & Wellness; and Civic Engagement and Democratic Institutions. A typical project supported by Max Bell Foundation ranges from 1-3 years in duration and has a budget that ranges from approximately $10,000 to $200,000. Max Bell Foundation is often the only financial supporter of projects they fund. Not for building or service delivery, it is for projects that inform public policy. You can view previous grants awarded here: https://www.maxbell.org/about-us/grants-database/

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: Contact Form

Website: Max Bell Foundation Grants   

        

McLean Foundation Grant

Department - Organization: The McLean Foundation

Description: They endeavour to maintain a flexible policy, with particular emphasis on projects showing promise of general social benefit but which may initially lack broad public appeal. Normally in the areas of social welfare, education, environmental conservation and the arts.

Deadline: Continuous 

Contact:

Website: https://www.grantinterface.ca/Home/Logon?urlkey=mcleanfdn

 

Municipal Adoption Fund

Department - Organization: Divert Nova Scotia

Description: Divert NS provides support for municipalities and/or waste management regions that wish to adopt a waste diversion program previously established in Nova Scotia. 

Deadline: Continuous intake. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Regional Coordinator in advance of submitting their application. 

Example(s): Curbside collection and recycling of textiles, Green cart collection of pet waste, Curbside collection and recycling of expanded polystyrene, Implementation of a reuse center, Curbside collection and recycling of small scrap metal.

Contact: Regional coordinator (To be updated ASAP)

Website: Municipal Adoption Fund

 

Municipal Efficiency Fund

Department - Organization: Divert Nova Scotia

Description: Divert NS provides support for increasing efficiency in the municipal solid waste-resource management system of Nova Scotia. The fund will support municipalities in researching, developing and implementing efficiency projects. 

Deadline: Continuous intake. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Regional Coordinator in advance of submitting their application. 

Example(s): Eligible projects under the program could include: Projects assessing the feasibility of shared services or regional collaboration. Projects that create new processes, systems and services or improve substantially those already in existence. Examples of past research can be found here.

Contact: Regional coordinator  (To be updated ASAP)

Website: Municipal Efficiency Fund

 

PACE Programs

Department - Organization: Programs offered by Clean Foundation & Switch PACE & FCM

Description: Homeowners can access low-interest financing to cover the cost of these upgrades through PACE programs offered by their municipalities. Each municipality can have their own PACE program or can join a turnkey program. Such as the Clean Energy Financing program created by Clean Foundation, or Switch PACE. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities administers the Community Efficiency Financing program that offers loans and grants to help municipalities across Canada deliver energy efficiency and solar power financing programs for residential properties, including PACE.

Deadline: Continous

Contact: 

Websites: 

Nova Scotia PACE

Clean Energy Financing by the Clean Foundation

Switch Pace

FCM Community Efficiency Financing

 

R. Howard Webster Foundation

Department - Organization: R. Howard Webster Foundation

Description: The R. Howard Webster Foundation makes grants to outstanding Canadian charitable organizations offering unique and inspiring programs or projects for the benefit, improvement and development of Canadian society. The R. Howard Webster Foundation’s funding interests are within the areas of Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, Medical, and Social Services.

Example(s): Does not fund capital projects. Previous grantees can be viewed on thier website.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: R. Howard Webster Foundation       

  

Thriving Forests Program

Department - Organization: Clean Foundation

Description: Thriving Forests is a sister program to the federal 2Billion Trees program. This program can help municipalities develop projects and connect them with service suppliers and local seed stock inventory. All projects must be planting incremental trees, meaning above and beyond any current legally-required tree planting activities, and not be part of business-as-usual commercial forestry activities. 

Example(s): Examples of successful projects may include (but are not limited to): Reforesting an area after a wildfire, reforesting an urban area that has fallen to disease, afforestation on retired agricultural land, restoration of legacy forest landings or forest roads, urban planting projects, initiatives to improve biodiversity and habitat resilience, reforesting an area where disturbances impact a critical habitat, infill planting or underplanting to increase biodiversity of an area.

Deadline: Open for expression of interest

Contact: Rachael MacNeil, 

Website: Thriving Forests Program

  

Community Development   

RBC Community Investment Fund

Department – Organization: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) / RBC Foundation

Description: RBC’s Community Investment program provides funding for innovative, expanding, and ongoing community projects through four main streams. The program supports initiatives that align with one or more of RBC’s core impact areas: climate/environment, skills and jobs for the future and community prosperity.

Funding Streams & Details:

• Seed – Supports new or early-stage initiatives to incubate innovative ideas.
  Provides up to $1,000,000 (maximum $500,000 per year) for projects up to 2 years in duration. RBC can fund up to 100% of the project budget (no more than 20% of the organization’s total operating budget).
  Purpose: Helps launch experimental or untested approaches.
• Scale – For proven projects aiming to expand their reach or impact.
  Provides up to $1,500,000 (maximum $500,000 per year) for projects up to 3 years. RBC will fund up to 50% of the project budget (up to 20% of operating budget).
  Purpose: Helps successful initiatives serve more people or new areas.
• Sustain – For ongoing, established programs that require long-term support.
  Provides up to $2,500,000 (maximum $500,000 per year) for projects up to 5 years. RBC covers up to 25% of the project budget (up to 20% of operating budget).
  Purpose: Maintains established projects with lasting community impact.
• Respond – For immediate or urgent community needs, such as disaster relief or crisis response.

Provides up to $500,000 for projects up to 1 year. Generally funds up to 20% of the organization’s operating budget.
Purpose: Rapid deployment for urgent or short-term critical issues.

Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round with a typical response time of 90 days.

Eligibility: Canadian registered charities, non-profits and qualified donees (including municipalities, Indigenous governments and public institutions).

How to Apply: Applications must be submitted online via the RBC Community Investment Portal.

Contact:

Website: https://www.rbc.com/our-impact/apply-for-funding/community-investments-canada.html

 

RBC Foundation Community Infrastructure Fund

Department: Organization: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) / RBC Foundation

Description: The RBC Foundation Community Infrastructure Fund (Build Stream) provides substantial capital funding to support the construction, renovation, and retrofit of community spaces across Canada. Grant Size & Term: $25,000 to $2,500,000 for projects up to 5 years. The fund focuses on two core priorities:

• Environmental sustainability (e.g., energy efficiency upgrades, reducing greenhouse gas emissions)
• Physical accessibility (e.g., making spaces fully accessible for people of all abilities)

Eligible Projects:

• New construction or major renovations of community-use facilities
• Energy efficiency retrofits (e.g., insulation, HVAC upgrades, solar panels, LED lighting)
• Accessibility upgrades (e.g., ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms, automatic doors, signage)

Deadline: Next intake anticipated Winter 2026.

Eligibility: Canadian registered charities, public institutions, and other qualified donees (including municipalities and Indigenous governments).

How to Apply: Applications must be submitted online via the RBC Community Investment Portal

Contact:

Website: https://www.rbc.com/our-impact/apply-for-funding/community-investments-canada.html

 

Safe and Active School Routes

Department - Organization: Green Muncipal Fund/ Federation of Canadian Municipalities  

Description: For new or improved active transportation infrastructure along school routes in your community, including quick-build or permanent features such as pathways, sidewalks, bike lanes, crossings and safety enhancements—along with knowledge and capacity to implement these improvements effectively. $125,000 grant up to 50%-80% of eligible costs.

Deadline: The pre-application deadline is October 17, 2025. 

Contact:  

Website: Safe and Active School Routes 

Community Development Fund (CDF)

Description: Community Development Fund Loans offer Additional financial assistance up to $225,000 in the form of repayable loans to businesses and offers financial assistance in terms of loans or bridge financing to non-profit associations.

Deadline:  Ongoing

Website: https://www.cbdc.ca/en/programs/community-development-fund-cdf

Contact: 
Tel: (902) 258-3698
Fax: (902) 258-3689

Hours:
Monday to Friday
8:30AM to 4:30PM

 

Innovation Rebate Program

Department - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia

Description: The Innovation Rebate Program (IRP) provides financial incentives for projects that assist Nova Scotia companies as they scale to increase their competitiveness.
The program supports companies as they innovate, drive productivity, increase production capacity, and adopt cleaner and more sustainable approaches to growth across Nova Scotia.
The Innovation Rebate Program works as a rebate against a company’s direct costs.

Deadline: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Projects must be completed within 3 years from the date an application is approved.

Contact: Cape Breton, Richmond, Inverness, Victoria Wanda MacLean 902.227.7144

 

TD Ready Commitment

Department – Organization: TD Bank Group

Description: TD Ready Commitment provides community donations and sponsorships to municipalities, registered charities, Indigenous communities and non-profits for programs and events that deliver measurable community outcomes under four drivers: Connected Communities, Vibrant Planet, Financial Security and Better Health. Eligible projects can include:

• Inclusive community events, arts/culture programming and place-making (Connected Communities)
• Urban greening, parks/tree planting, habitat restoration and low-carbon initiatives (Vibrant Planet)
• Financial literacy, youth employment/skills training and newcomer economic inclusion (Financial Security)
• Mental-wellbeing, active living and health-equity access initiatives delivered with community partners (Better Health)

Key Parameters & Terms:

• Typical request range: from $1,000 to over $1,000,000, depending on project and budget.
• Normally no more than 20% of your annual operating budget can be covered.
• Usually no more than 15% of the grant can go to admin/overhead (program delivery costs don’t count as admin).
• For large grants ($500,000+), up to 20% may go to capital tied to the initiative and up to 10% for evaluation.
• Only one request per organization per year.

Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed four times a year (January, April, July, October).

Eligibility: Canadian registered/incorporated charities and not-for-profits, municipalities, Indigenous communities.

How to Apply: Submit online via TD’s Grants portal

Contact: 

Website:  https://www.td.com/ca/en/about-td/ready-commitment

 

TD Friends of the Environment Foundation Grant

Department - Organization: TD Bank

Description: The Foundation supports a wide range of environmental initiatives, with a primary focus on environmental education and green space programs. States that municipalities are eligible.

Example(s): Eligible projects include park revitalization, community gardens, park programming and citizen science initiatives.

Deadline: July 15th. January 15th

Contact: 

Website: https://www.td.com/ca/en/about-td/ready-commitment/funding/fef-grant

 

Atlantic Lottery – Community Initiatives Sponsorship

Department – Organization: Atlantic Lottery Corporation

Description: Sponsorship funding for public events and community initiatives across Atlantic Canada that align with culture and heritage, community and economic development, or wellness. Examples include community/cultural celebrations, festivals and large events, and civic/charitable initiatives that bring people together and deliver positive social and economic impact. Branding and on-site activation opportunities are part of the sponsorship.

Key Parameters & Terms:

• Sponsorship amounts typically start at $2,500, with final amounts varying based on the size and scope of the event.
• Applications are evaluated on how well they align with Atlantic Lottery’s themes (Culture and Heritage, Community and Economic Development, Wellness), the reach of the event and opportunities for visibility and engagement.

Deadline: Quarterly review cycles; apply by Dec 1, Mar 1, Jun 1, Sep 1.

Eligibility: Public community initiatives held in Atlantic Canada. Municipal civic initiatives and events delivered by registered charities and incorporated non-profits are within scope.

How to Apply: Submit online via Atlantic Lottery’s sponsorship application form.

Contact: 

Website: https://www.alc.ca/content/alc/en/corporate/giving-back/sponsorships.html

 

Economic Development Funding  

First Nation-Municipal Community Economic Development Initiative

Department - Organization: Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (Cando) and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) 

Description: The program is a good fit for First Nations and municipalities that have a pre-existing relationship and preliminary ideas for collaborative community economic development initiatives.  It is a 2-year program where the communities will work together on initiatives and have joint access to a $22,500 Capacity Development Grant. There is no direct cost to participate; the program requires in-kind contributions such as time and meeting spaces.

Deadline: September 26, 2025.

Contact: Acting Program Manager,  Marissa Lawrence ()

Website: https://www.cedipartnerships.ca/contact/partnership-opportunities/

 

Duties Relief Program

Department - Organization: Canada Border Services Agency

Description: The Duties Relief Program from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) allows qualified companies to import commercial goods without paying duties, as long as those goods are eventually exported. As part of the program, companies can manufacture or use the commercial goods in a limited manner before export.

Eligibility: 

To qualify for the program, your company must import commercial goods under the following conditions:

• The goods are later exported as-is, or
• The goods are used to produce other goods for export

Deadline: Continuous intake

Website: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/ddr-red/relief-report-eng.html

 

Drawback Program

Department - Organization: Canada Border Services Agency

Description: 

The Drawback Program can help Canadian companies compete in export markets by removing the domestic duty impact from their commercial goods. The program grants a drawback (refund) of duties that were paid on imported goods if:

• the goods are eventually exported in the same condition, or
• the goods are consumed or expended through a manufacturing process and eventually exported

Additionally, Canadian companies may have commercial goods that are eligible for drawbacks under the Obsolete or Surplus Goods Program. The purpose of this program is to help Canadian companies compete internationally by reducing the export costs on valueless goods that will not enter the domestic market.

Eligibility: 

To qualify for the program, your company must import commercial goods under the following conditions:

• The goods are later exported as-is, or
• The goods are used to produce other goods for export

Deadline: Continuous intake

Website: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/ddr-red/drawback-eng.html

 

Nova Scotia Mineral Resources Development Fund – Communities Grant

Department - Organization: NS Dept of Natural Resources and Renewables

Description: Grants are available for projects intended to support communities as they interact with the mining industry. Activities should be intended to support the mineral resource industry in Nova Scotia. Applications and proposals for marketing grants are accepted throughout the fiscal year starting April 1st each year. Maximum of $25,000.

Deadline: Open year-round, from 1 April 2025 to March 2026.

Contact:  

Website: https://novascotia.ca/natr/meb/mrdp.asp

  

Innovative Communities Fund

Department - Organization: Atlantic Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Description: The fund is for economic development projects and initiatives that lead to long-term employment and a stronger local economy. The fund enables communities to: develop thriving industry sectors, strengthen infrastructure in rural areas, invest in projects to help communities overcome economic issues and take advantage of new opportunities.

Example(s): Projects with links to tourism, for example, waterfront development capital projects. Events that bring in a national or international audience. Expansion of municipal services can be eligible if it is linked to economic development in the private sector.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: ACOA Regional Manager 

Website: Innovative Communities Fund

    

Emergency Services & Safety 

Ship Fund

Department - Organization: Ship and Rail Compensation Canada 

Description: Compensates anyone affected by oil spills from ships or boats anywhere in Canadian waters. Over the past 36 years, it has provided $29 million in compensation to Canadians, including $1 million to municipalities. It covers clean-up and response costs, property damage, environmental measures, economic loss, and other losses. Most claimants do not need to go to court or hire a lawyer. Oil doesn’t necessarily need to be spilled; the Ship Fund also compensates responders who have taken steps to prevent a spill. 

Deadline: Most Claims need to be submitted within two years of the incident. 

Contact: 

Website: https://ship-rail.gc.ca/

Rail Fund

Department - Organization: Ship and Rail Compensation Canada 

Description: Compensates anyone affected by major rail accidents involving crude oil. Compensation from the Rail Fund is available once the railway company involved in the accident has exceeded its limit of liability. It covers clean-up and response costs, personal injuries and death, property damage, environmental measures, economic and other losses. To date, no rail accident has activated the Rail Fund, so claims are not currently accepted. However, the Rail Fund actively monitors accidents involving crude oil and is ready to respond to a high volume of claims.

Deadline: Most claims need to be submitted within three years of the accident.

Contact: 

Website: https://ship-rail.gc.ca/

 

Access to Justice in Both Official Languages Support Fund

Department - Organization: Department of Justice Canada

Description: 

• Support for Official Language Minority Communities: Boost the supply of legal information and socio-legal support services for official language minority communities, with an emphasis on vulnerable populations within those communities.

• Support for the Justice System: Strengthen the bilingual capacity of the justice system through language training, professional development and promotion of the language of law.

Examples: 

• Promote awareness, information and training about issues related to access to justice in both official languages.

• Develop and disseminate jurilinguistic and legal tools.
• Undertake research to the benefit of official language minority communities.
• Provide legal information and socio-legal support services to official language minority communities, with an emphasis on vulnerable populations within those communities.
• Provide advanced training focusing on legal terminology for bilingual justice professionals.
• Provide continuing professional education to people working within the justice system in a minority official language.
• Contribute to the development of a curriculum for bilingual students interested in pursuing a career in the field of justice.
• Elaborate a recruitment strategy and the promotion of justice-related careers.

Deadline: Continous intake

Contact: For more information on the Support Fund and on how to submit a funding application, please write to

Website: Support Fund

 

Civil Forfeiture Grant Program

Department - Organization: NS Dept of Department of Justice, Public Safety and Security

Description: The Civil Forfeiture Grant Program provides one-time funding to organizations that support eligible victims of crime and targeted crime prevention initiatives across Nova Scotia. The Program is funded from the disposition of forfeited property seized by law enforcement agencies. 

Example(s): The Two Peas in a Pod mentorship program targets at-risk youth who may be vulnerable to becoming involved in gang activities. This program matches at-risk youth with a peer mentor to spend 2-3 hours per week to engage in pro-social activities such as sport, tutoring and volunteering. It is expected that 30 youth in this program will become more engaged with their schoolwork and family.

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: https://novascotia.ca/just/civil-forfeiture-grant-program.asp

    

Entrepreneurs/ Entrepreneurship

WEOC National Loan Program

Department - Organization: Women's Entreprise Organization of Canada

Description: Individuals submitting loan applications must be:

• At least 19 years of age
• A Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident
• Residing in Canada

Eligible businesses must be:

• Over 50% women-owned
• Have maximum business revenues of up to $2 million in gross annual revenues

Eligible Expenses

• Capital assets (including machinery/equipment, leasehold/property improvements)
• Office and equipment rental
• Salaries and benefits (excluding owner’s salary)
• IT/software license purchase
• Professional services
• Inventory/supplies
• Intellectual Property
• Working capital (e.g. payroll, lease payments, accounts management, rent, overhead costs)
• Digital (including website/E-commerce development)
• Marketing/advertising/business promotion
• Employee training
• Short term receivable financing (i.e. financing to service a contract)
• Business start-up costs (legal fees, business incorporation fees, business plan preparation, etc.)

Deadline: Continuous 

Website: https://weoc.ca/loan-program/eligibility/

  

Core Startup Program

Department - Organization: Futurpreneur

Description: Futurpreneur is here to empower aspiring young entrepreneurs on their journey to success! Our Core Startup Program provides loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, with added access to tools and networking opportunities across Canada. This is a flexible, equity-free startup business loan of up to $75,000, including up to $50,000 in financing from BDC.* and up to two years of mentorship *conditions apply. Core Startup Program

Eligibility

• You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18 to 39 when you submit your application.
• You must demonstrate some training or experience in your field
• You must be able to demonstrate that you have experience working in your industry and related to your business idea. 
• You cannot be a contractor or an agent

To apply you cannot be an agent or contractor working for another already existing business.

Additional eligibility requirements :

https://futurpreneur.ca/en/eligibility/

Deadline: Continuous 

Contact: 902.440-7266

Website: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/core-startup/

 

Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP)

Department - Organization: Futurpreneur

Description: Futurpreneur empowers aspiring young Indigenous entrepreneurs on their journey to success. The Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP) provides start-up loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, supported by a team with lived experience, offering access to tools and networking. The IESP is designed and operated by an Indigenous team that understands the barriers to success faced by young and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. IESP provides startup loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, supported by a team with lived experience, offering access to tools and networking opportunities across Canada. IESP  offers A flexible equity-free startup business loan of up to $75,000* available to Indigenous entrepreneurs (including those on reserve). *conditions apply

Eligibility:

• You must self-identify as Indigenous
• Indigenous entrepreneurs who self-identify as members of other communities are also welcome to apply for support from Futurpreneur.
• You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39
• When you apply you must be within the stated age range in order to be eligible.
• You are looking to launch a business or have been operating your business for less than two years
• In order to be eligible, your business must not yet be operational or can only have been operating full time for 24 months or less.

 Deadline: Continuous 

Contact: 902.440-7266

Website:https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/indigenous-entrepreneur-startup/

 

Black Entrepreneur Startup Program

Department - Organization: Futurpreneur

Description: " We understand that starting your own business can come with its challenges, which is why we're excited to introduce our Black Entrepreneur Startup Program (BESP)! This program is specifically designed to support young Black entrepreneurs on their journey to success."  " Our team, who have their own lived experience, is here to guide you every step of the way. With BESP, you can access flexible financing, along with expert mentoring and other resources to help kickstart your business and make it thrive. This is a A flexible startup business loan of up to $75,000*. With up to $40,000 in additional financing opportunities from Futurpreneur* *some conditions apply"

 

Eligibility:

• You must self-identify as Black
• To participate in this program, participants must self-identify as Black. Intersectionality is also welcomed eg. those who identify as Black and Indigenous are also welcome to apply.
• You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39
• You must physically reside in Canada and be between the ages of 18 and 39 at the time of application.
• You are looking to launch a business or have been operating your business for less than two years
• In order to be eligible, your business must not yet be operational or can only have been operating full time for 24 months or less.
• The business must be majority Black-owned
• When there are only two partners (owners) of the applicant business, the business must be majority Black-owned (> 50%). When there are more than two partners (owners), the business must be at least 25% Black-owned (≥25%).

Additional eligibility requirements :

https://futurpreneur.ca/en/eligibility/

 Deadline: Continuous 

Contact: 902.440-7266

Website: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/black-entrepreneur-startup/

 

Side Hustle Program

Department - Organization: Futurpreneur

Description: " Our Side Hustle Program offers you up to $25,000 in financing to help you launch or grow your side business and keep your full-time job. You can also benefit from mentoring and business planning tools to help you grow your side hustle and take it to the next level."

Eligibility:

• You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada
• You must physically reside in Canada.
• You are between the ages of 18-39
• At the time of your application you must be within the stated age range in order to be eligible.
• You have a full time income outside of your side business
• For the next 12 months, your side business will remain your secondary source of income

Additional eligibility requirements :

https://futurpreneur.ca/en/eligibility/

 Deadline: Continuous 

Contact: 902.440-7266

Website: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/side-hustle/

 

PARO Lending Circle

Department - Organization: PARO

Description: " A Microfinance Program for Women- PARO Prosper Peer Lending Circles are small groups of like-minded women who meet regularly to share their experiences and expand their individual networks of contacts. PARO Prosper Lending Circles helps women connect and network with other enterprising women. Today, the PARO Prosper Circles Program is the strongest Peer Lending program in North America. One of the key elements of a Prosper Lending Circle is that members also gain access to support and loans ranging from $1000 to $5,000. Prosper Lending Circle members are involved in reviewing and approving loan applications from PARO members in their own circle. Peer loans have helped many members of Circles to grow their businesses and set new goals for the future. "

Eligibility: 

A Prosper Circle loan could be the solution for you if:

•   You have a poor or no credit history
•   The loan amount you are aiming for is too low to be considered by a bank
•   You don’t trust typical financial institutions
•   You want to avoid credit card debt
•   You want to take advantage of additional funds.

Deadline: Continuous 

Contact:  or call 807 625-0328.

Website: https://paro.ca/paro-circles/

 

Funding for Employment Opportunities 

The Work-Sharing Program 

Department - Organization: Government of Canada - Employment and Social Development Canada 

Description:

The Work-Sharing Program helps employers and employees avoid layoffs when:

• there is a temporary decrease in the normal level of business activity, and
• the decrease is beyond the control of the employer

The agreement provides income support to employees eligible for Employment Insurance benefits who work a temporarily reduced work week while their employer recovers. All employees participating in the agreement must experience a minimum 10% reduction to their normal weekly earnings to comply with the terms of the agreement.

A Work-Sharing agreement is a three-party agreement involving employers, employees and Service Canada.

Employees on a Work-Sharing agreement must agree to:

• a reduced schedule of work, and
• share the available work equally over the term of the agreement

The employer and the employees involved (and the union, if applicable) must agree to participate in a Work-Sharing agreement. Then, the employer/employer representative, employee representative and, if applicable, the union representative apply to participate in a Work-Sharing agreement.

Agreement duration and extension

Work-Sharing agreements must have a minimum duration of 6 weeks and can last up to 26 weeks. If needed, an extension may be requested of up to 12 weeks bringing the initial agreement to a maximum total of 38 weeks. Work-Sharing agreements are not extended automatically. To request an extension of a Work-Sharing agreement, an application must be submitted a minimum of 4 weeks prior to the end date of the Work-Sharing agreement.

A mandatory cooling-off period must be served once the agreement has ended or has been terminated. The duration of the cooling-off period will be equal to the number of weeks utilized in the previous agreement (up to a maximum of 38 weeks).

Please note that Work-Sharing agreements can only start on a Sunday to align with the Employment Insurance payment cycle. Please consider this when planning the desired start date of your agreement in your Work-Sharing application.

Special measures

The Work-Sharing Program may introduce temporary special measures at any time to provide additional support for affected businesses during a period of economic downturn, natural disaster or if a national emergency is declared. The special measures provide targeted support for businesses impacted to recover and avoid layoffs for a specific period of time.

Tariffs

Work-Sharing special measures to support businesses affected by the threat or potential realization of tariffs are effective March 7, 2025 to March 6, 2026.

Employers experiencing a decline in business activity attributable to the threat or potential realization of tariffs may be eligible for Work-Sharing special measures if they:

• are operating in Canada for a minimum of 1 year
• have a minimum of 2 EI eligible employees who agree to a reduction in hours and to share any available work

Affected businesses may benefit from the Work-Sharing special measures if they are:

• new to the Work-Sharing program
• have an existing Work-Sharing agreement
• are serving a mandatory cooling-off period

Work-Sharing agreements approved under tariffs special measures:

• must have a minimum duration of 6 weeks, and
• may be extended, to a maximum total of 76 weeks, if required

Work-Sharing tariffs special measures flexibilities include:

• maximum duration of Work-Sharing agreement up to 76 weeks
• waiving the required cooling-off period between successive Work-Sharing agreements while special measures are in place
• focusing recovery measures on supporting the business' ability to maintain its viability related to the threat or potential realization of tariffs

Expanded employer eligibility

• to businesses that have been in operation in Canada for 1 year
• to include non-profit and charitable organizations experiencing a reduction in revenue levels as a direct or indirect result of the tariffs
• to include cyclical or seasonal employers
• to employers experiencing a decrease in work activity over the past six months of less than 10% and allowing utilization of Work-Sharing to exceed 60%

Expanded employee eligibility

• to employees who are not year-round, permanent, full-time or part-time employees, specifically seasonal or cyclical employees
• employees assisting the employer's recovery efforts

From March 7, 2025 to March 6, 2026, these special measures are in place in response to the threat or potential realization of tariffs. 

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: .

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/work-sharing.html#h2.1

 

Canada Retraining and Opportunities Initiative - Funding Program

Department - Organization: Government of Canada - Employment and Social Development Canada 

Description: 

The Canada Retraining and Opportunities Initiative supports communities and workers significantly impacted by a mass layoff. It provides funding for community-based projects that bring together local organizations to support workforce planning and reskilling opportunities. This initiative helps build community resilience by complementing existing programs and services to help workers develop skills to transition to new jobs.

Who can apply:

Not-for-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, municipal governments, Indigenous organizations or governments, and educational institutions.

How to apply :  
Organizations can submit an expression of interest to confirm whether a mass layoff event is eligible for funding

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-retraining-opportunities-initiative.html

 

Co-operative Education Incentive

Department - Organization: NS Dept Labour, Skills and Immigration

Description: The Co-op Education Incentive (CO-OP) provides wage assistance to organizations that offer career-related work experiences for university and college cooperative students.

Deadline: 

Apply between December 15th, 2024 and January 15th, 2025 for the Summer 2025 co-op term.

Apply between April 15th and May 15th, 2025 for the Fall 2025 co-op term.

Apply between August 15th and September 16th, 2025 for the Winter 2026 co-op term.

Contact:

Website: Co-operative Education Incentive

 

 

Foreign Credential Recognition Program 

Description:  The Government of Canada provides funding to governments and organizations through the Foreign Credential Recognition Program (FCRP) to support foreign credential recognition in Canada.

Priorities for funding under the Foreign Credential Recognition Program include projects that:
are national in scope
address priority occupations and sectors representing skill shortages in Canada, and/or
have been identified as a priority by provincial and territorial governments

The FCRP does not provide money directly to individuals; it provides funding to provincial and territorial governments and other organizations. These other organizations may include regulatory bodies, national associations and credential assessment agencies. Governments and organizations use the funding for programs that contribute to the integration of skilled newcomers in their field or related field of study.

https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/foreign-credential-recognition.html

 

Public Policy and Governance Internship Program

Department - Organization: Public Policy and Governance Program, St. Francis Xavier University

Description: The Public Policy and Governance program offers students an interdisciplinary education to understand how societies solve difficult economic, social, and political problems. Municipalities can offer students paid or volunteer opportunities. The placements are for a minimum of either week between late April and early September. Municipalities will benefit from interns with relevant knowledge and core skills from three years of education in public policy, public administration, economics, and statistics. Organizations taking on an intern should treat the student as a short-term contract employee in accordance with relevant policies.

Example(s): The County of Antigonish had a student who researched policy and program options, contributed to public communications materials, participated in emergency management exercises, drafted MOUs and RFPs, presented a summary of the province’s Road Trails Act to the Municipal Council, provided feedback on their Council Orientation Guide, and assisted with the development of their Housing Accelerator Fund application.

Deadline: Continous 

Contact: Peter Kikkert, Coordinator, Public Policy an Governance Program, 

Website: Public Policy and Governance Internship

 

Housing 

Funding for Indigenous Housing

Department – Organizations: CMHC Indigenous & the North Housing Solutions, Indigenous Services Canada

 Description: A comprehensive suite of financing and grant programs to support housing projects for Indigenous communities. Includes new construction, repair and renewal, shelter and transitional housing, internship wage subsidies, and strategy-driven engagement.

Type: Grants, low-interest loans, forgivable loans, contributions and wage subsidies

 Eligible Applicants: Indigenous governments and organizations; municipalities and other partners may be eligible when collaborating with an Indigenous lead applicant

 Eligible Projects: Affordable rental housing, mixed-income housing, shelters, renovations, housing planning and strategies

 Deadline: Continuous intake

 Contact:

 Website: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/indigenous

 

Growth and Renewal for Infrastructure Development Program

Department - Organization: Department of Municipal Affairs

Description: The program supports municipal infrastructure projects that address critical capacity issues, build more accessible and adaptable communities and preserve and expand services for housing. The funding must be used for municipally owned infrastructure projects such as:

• water, wastewater and stormwater
• accessibility
• climate change adaptation

Deadline: October 9, 2025.

Contact: 

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-support-municipal-infrastructure-projects-growth-and-renewal-infrastructure-development-program

 

Infrastructure for Housing Initiative

Department – Organization: Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB)

Description: The Infrastructure for Housing Initiative (IHI) offers low-cost, long-term financing to municipalities and Indigenous communities to build or expand infrastructure that enables new housing supply. Eligible projects include water, wastewater, stormwater, local transportation, transit, energy, and broadband infrastructure that directly support new housing development. This initiative helps communities overcome up-front infrastructure barriers and accelerate the pace of housing construction.

Type: Loan / Financing (not a grant!)

Eligible Applicants: Municipalities, Indigenous governments

Eligible Projects: Large-scale enabling infrastructure (e.g., water and wastewater systems, roads, bridges, transit, electricity distribution, broadband) that unlock new housing

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: https://cib-bic.ca/en/infrastructure-for-housing-initiative/

 

GST/HST Purpose-built rental housing rebate ( PBRH Rebate) 

Department - Organization: Government of Canada 

Description: The Government of Canada is providing a 100% rebate of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), or the federal portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), paid on certain new purpose-built rental housing, with no phase-out thresholds (federal PBRH rebate).

The federal PBRH rebate may apply to

• a purchase or construction of a new building
• construction of an addition to an existing building
• a conversion from a non-residential building, such as an office building, to a multiple unit residential complex

Deadline: Continuous intake

Contact: 1-800-567-4692

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/businesses/topics/gst-hst-businesses/gst-hst-rebates/purpose-built-rental-housing.html

 

Affordable Housing Fund

Department - Organization: Canadian Mortgage and Housing Association

Description: Provides capital to partnered organizations for new affordable housing and the repair and renewal of existing affordable and community housing. Funds are provided as low-interest and/or forgivable loans and contributions. This fund is available to organizations that have partnered with another organization or level of government and have secured some funding. CMHC may provide up to 100% of the eligible project costs.

Deadline: Continuous 

Contact: Before you begin the application, please contact 1-800-668-2642,

Website: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/all-funding-programs/affordable-housing-fund

 

Accessible Housing Program

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development 

Description: The Accessible Housing Program helps low- and moderate-income homeowners with the cost of accessibility adaptations (upgrades) to help people with disabilities and seniors stay in their homes.

The Accessible Housing Program may fund up to $18,000 of eligible accessibility adaptations. For larger accessibility adaptation projects an additional $20,000 may be available as a repayable loan. The applicant or other sources need to fund the remaining balance of the costs.

The funding provides $10,000 as a grant and $8,000 as a forgivable loan. To have the loan forgiven, you must meet the loan conditions.

Deadline:  Continuous intake

Contact: 
Phone: 902-563-2120
Toll-free: 1-844-424-5110
Fax: 902-563-2370

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/accessible-housing-program

 

Affordable Housing Development Program

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Affordable Housing Development Program supports the creation of affordable housing. Private developers and community housing developers can apply for forgivable loans from the Affordable Housing Development Program to help fund the construction of new housing or the conversion of non-residential buildings. Both must include affordable rental units for households with low to moderate  income.

You need to use the funding to create housing that includes affordable rental units for households with low to moderate income. Affordable housing is housing where the rent is below the average market rent (AMR) for the location.

Projects given priority for funding include housing development that:

• offers rent that’s at least 20% below average market rent
• offers rental units at affordable rental rates for more than the minimum 15-year affordability period
• includes at least 5 affordable rental units
• achieves higher-than-average social, economic or environmental outcomes
• involves co-operatives, non-profit housing providers or community housing groups
• has a plan for construction and operations that’s financially viable
• exceeds Building Code minimum standards for accessibility
• exceeds Building Code minimum standards for energy efficiency

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-create-affordable-housing-affordable-housing-development-program

Deadline:  Continuous intake

Contact:  

 

The Backyard Suite Incentive Program

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Secondary and Backyard Suite Incentive Program helps homeowners create supportive housing for family members or affordable housing for tenants on their property. Homeowners can apply for a forgivable loan to build a secondary or backyard suite on the property of their principal residence. A basement apartment and an apartment detached from your primary residence are examples of a secondary suite.

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-build-secondary-or-backyard-suite-your-property-secondary-and-backyard-suite-incentive-program

Contact : 
Phone: 902-563-2120
Toll-free: 1-844-424-5110
Fax: 902-563-2370

Deadline:  Continuous intake

 

The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit - Home Owners 

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit helps homeowners stay in their home if they pay more than 50% of their pre-tax (gross) household income on housing costs (like mortgage and utilities). Supplements are up to $200 per month. You can apply any time.

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-create-affordable-housing-affordable-housing-development-program

Deadline:  Continuous intake

 

The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit - Renters 

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit helps renters with the cost of their rent if they pay more than 40% of their pre-tax (gross) household income on the average market rent in their area (not the rent that they pay). You can apply any time.

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-rent-supplement-canada-nova-scotia-targeted-housing-benefit

Deadline:  Continuous intake

 

The Community Housing Acquisition Program

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Community Housing Acquisition Program helps community housing providers preserve and expand the supply of affordable housing. Community housing providers can apply to the Community Housing Acquisition Program for a loan to help buy existing multi-unit residential properties for non-market (community) housing.

 Funding is available for up to 95% of the property cost. The applicant needs to fund the remaining balance of the project.

The funding provides a fixed-interest-rate, repayable loan. Terms of up to 30 years are available. The maximum loan amount available is $10 million per project amortized over a maximum of 30 years.

You can use this funding in combination with funding from the Department of Opportunities and Social Development for supportive housing projects.

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-loan-buy-multi-unit-residential-properties-non-market-community-housing-community-housing-acquisition-program

Deadline:  Continuous intake

 

The Community Housing Infrastructure and Repair Program

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Community Housing Infrastructure and Repair Program supports repairs for affordable housing. Community housing providers can apply for forgivable loans from the Community Housing Infrastructure and Repair Program to help fund capital repairs on residential buildings

Website:https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-community-housing-capital-repairs-community-housing-infrastructure-and-repair-program

Deadline:  Continuous intake

 

The Community Housing Operating Support Program

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Community Housing Operating Support Program provides short-term operating support for community housing providers. Community housing organizations can apply to the Community Housing Operating Support Program for operating subsidies to meet immediate need. You can apply anytime

Website:https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-operating-subsidies-community-housing-community-housing-operating-support-program

Deadline:  Continuous intake

 

Down Payment Assistance Program

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Down Payment Assistance Program helps Nova Scotians who pre-qualify for an insured mortgage to buy their first home. You can apply to the Down Payment Assistance Program for a loan of up to 5% of the purchase price of a home to help with the down payment. You can apply anytime.

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-loan-help-down-payment-your-first-home-down-payment-assistance-program

Deadline:  Continuous intake

  

The Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit

Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development

Description: The Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit provides individuals and families who are fleeing or are planning to leave their home due to acts of gender-based violence with a monthly benefit to help pay their rent.

You get the survivors of gender-based violence benefit for up to 2 years (you need to meet additional eligibility criteria to get the supplement for the second year). After 2 years, you can apply for the Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit for renters

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-survivors-gender-based-violence-housing-benefit

Deadline:  Continuous intake

 

CMHC - Affordable Housing and Innovation Fund

Department - Organization: Canadian Mortgage and Housing Association

Description: The Affordable Housing Innovation Fund supports new ideas that will drive change and disrupt the industry – ideas and approaches that will evolve the affordable housing sector and create the next generation of housing in Canada. Develop and test innovations that incorporate resource and operating efficiencies and are replicable and scalable. Get flexible financial support to test a range of innovations and leverage new partnerships. Facilitate partnerships and encourage participation from diverse stakeholders.

Deadline: Currently open for applications. 

Example Project: Incremental financing models and incremental building models. Such as the creation of shipping container affordable housing units which met net-zero specifications. The development of tiny homes for homeless veterans.

Website: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/all-funding-programs/affordable-housing-innovation-fund

   

Green Municipal Fund

Department - Organization: Infrastructure Canada/Federation of Canadian Municipalities 

Description:  GMF is more than just a funding source—they are a full-service partner in your climate action progress. Grants and loans for all stages. Stackable with other funding sources. Dedicated staff to help you apply. Free resources to help build business cases and improve project outcomes. Grants from $100-500k for up to 50% of eligible costs, combined grant and loan to a maximum of $10M for up to 80% of eligible costs.

• Community Efficiency Financing:Explore and assess options for a financing program for home energy upgrades within your community. Support project decision-making with a feasibility study.
• New construction of sustainable affordable housing: Construct a new affordable housing project to a higher environmental performance standard. Finance your new build with capital project funding. Planning, study and pilot project funding is also available.
• Retrofit of Sustainable Affordable Housing:  Integrate deep energy efficiency measures and onsite renewable energy generation into existing affordable housing units. Finance your retrofit with capital funding. Planning, study and pilot project funding is also available.

Deadline: Continuous

Contact:  or book a meeting with an advisor. 

Website: Green Municipal Fund

Information Sessions: Webinar for Nova Scotia Municipalities, local examples will be used. May 23rd, 11:00 am. Please click here to register.

 

Provincial Housing Emergency Repair Program

Description: This program is equally funded by the federal and provincial governments and offers financial assistance for homeowners to make emergency repairs to their homes.

The maximum amount of funding available is a $6,500 grant to help cover the cost of labour and materials.

Eligibility: development of future larger-scale capital projects. Eligible capital projects include buses, charging and refuelling infrastructure, and other ancillary infrastructure needs.

Deadline: Currently open for applications.

Contact: For more program information, call 1-844-424-5110 (toll-free).

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/housing-repair-program

 

  

National Housing Co-Investment Funding

Department - Organization: Canadian Mortgage and Housing Association

Description: This fund is for organizations that have partnered with another organization of a level of government and have secured some funding. The objective is to develop energy-efficient, accessible, and socially inclusive housing for mixed-income, mixed-tenure and mixed-use affordable housing. (Minimum 5 units). Community and affordable housing, shelters, transitional and supportive housing. Two streams: 1) New Construction and 2) Repair and Renewal. Within both streams, projects must achieve a minimum 25% decrease in energy consumption and GHG emissions as compared to the same project designed to 2015 National Building Code. Loans of up to 95% and contributions of up to 30%. Loans prioritized; contribution option only considered if loans are not feasible (i.e. shelters). Contributions are also available as a top-up for projects already receiving loans from other sources.

Deadline: Currently accepting applications

Website: National Housing Co-Investment Funding 

 

Infratructure

 

Other  

 

Recreation & Health

Visit Recreation Funding Opportunities for more information.

 Visit Trails  for funding opportunities for more information.

 

Seniors  

Seniors Care Grant: 

Department - Organization: Province of Nova Scotia 

Description:

This provincial grant provides eligible Nova Scotia seniors with $750 to help cover the costs of home heating, household expenses, and healthcare services.

 Eligibility : 

To qualify for the grants, you must

• be 65 years of age or older by March 31, 2026
• have an annual household net income of $45,100 or less
• live in a home or apartment that you own or rent
• have your name on the property title, Land Titles Initiative Certificate of Claim, or residential lease agreement, or a Band administrative letter issued by a First Nation community.

Eligible services include those that help you stay in your home, and make it safer and more comfortable, including:

• Cooking and Meals - Delivery or preparation of food or meals (excluding the cost of food)

• Healthcare Services – such as eye exams, dental work, mental health supports, physical therapy, occupational therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic services, foot care, dieticians, nutritionists, audiology, and speech and language pathologists

• Home Cleaning – laundry, organizing, or help with downsizing or moving

• Medication/Prescription Delivery - (excluding the cost of medications and prescriptions)

• Home Maintenance – such as landscaping, lawn care, snow removal, stacking wood, and tree removal

• Communication Services– such as phone, cell phone, and internet (excluding the device cost)

• Home Repairs Services – labour and delivery costs

• Transportation – such as taxis, ride shares, shuttles, and other methods of transportation -and public and community transit – such as the bus, Access-A-Bus, and ferry

• Home Heating – such as furnace oil, natural gas, propane, firewood, wood pellets, electricity, and repairs and regular maintenance for home heating systems.

• Funds can be used on home heating, household, and healthcare services between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026.

• Only one person can apply for each household.

NOTE: You can also apply to the Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP) for additional assistance when it opens in October.

How to apply:

Applications can be submitted online or by mail.

The application is available online, or you can obtain a paper application at Access Nova Scotia Centres and MLA offices, or by calling 1-800-670-4357 (toll-free) to request one be sent to you.

Deadline: March 31, 2026

Contact: 902-424-5200 or 1-800-670-4357 (toll free) 

email:  

Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-help-household-healthcare-and-home-heating-costs-seniors-care-grant?fbclid=IwY2xjawMeje1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFkcG5mbXZpenVIMlBucEdKAR7_yml2k9cqOVYTMsUqQn7zp0v2c4S39UnmiaV3af38lrx0sHeJNSBO29RI8g_aem_Qjod_t8_v_0rl9n6vA6QVQ

 

New Horizons for Seniors Program - Community-Based Projects: 

Department  -  Government of Canada - Employment and Social Development 

Description: The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) community-based stream is a federal grant. It supports projects that are designed by seniors and for seniors in their communities. This program funds projects that empower seniors in their communities through increased social inclusion.

Funding Amount: Up to $25,000

Application Period: Aug. 6 - Sept. 17 at 3 pm (EDT)

Who can apply : Eligible organizations can apply for up to $25,000 for projects that are led by seniors and are volunteer-based.

Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/new-horizons-seniors-community-based.html

  

Secondary and Backyard Suite Incentive Program

The Secondary and Backyard Suite Incentive Program helps homeowners create supportive housing for family members or affordable housing for tenants on their property. Homeowners can apply for a loan to build a secondary or backyard suite on the property of their primary residence. You can apply anytime.

Funding is available for up to 50% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $40,000. The applicant needs to fund the remaining balance of the project.
The funding provides a forgivable loan. Terms of up to 5 years are available. Funding for more than 1 secondary or backyard suite may be available if allowed by the municipality

Direct link: 
https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-build-secondary-or-backyard-suite-your-property-secondary-and-backyard-suite-incentive-program

     

Transportation    

Canada Public Transit Fund: Metro-Region Agreement

Department - Organization: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada 

Description: A Metro-Region Agreement offers a new way for the Government of Canada, provinces, municipalities and other key partners, such as transit agencies and Indigenous communities to collaborate together. These agreements will encourage long-term integrated planning within large urban areas and will support a wide variety of projects, from transformational investments that build new subways and dedicated bus lines, to maintaining and sustaining the health of an existing transit system. 

Deadline: Open for EOI.

Contact:  

Website: Metro-Region Agreements

 

Green Municipal Fund

Department - Organization: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada /Federation of Canadian Municipalities 

Description:  GMF is more than just a funding source—they are a full-service partner in your climate action progress. Grants and loans for all stages. Stackable with other funding sources. Dedicated staff to help you apply. Free resources to help build business cases and improve project outcomes. Grants from $100-500k for up to 50% of eligible costs, combined grant and loan to a maximum of $10M for up to 80% of eligible costs.

• Municipal Fleet Electrification:Funding for the electrification of municipal and transit fleets to help municipalities achieve net-zero transportation emissions.

Deadline: Continuous

Contact:  or book a meeting with an advisor. 

Website: Green Municipal Fund

 

Electrify Nova Scotia MHZEV Rebate Program

Department - Organization: EVAssist Nova Scotia

Description: Offered through the Province of Nova Scotia, the Electrify Nova Scotia Medium and Heavy-duty Electric Vehicle Program provides rebates for the purchase or lease of qualifying MHZEVs on or after April 1st, 2024.

Deadline: Rebates are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and will remain available until the program budget is exhausted or the program is terminated.

Contact: 1-877-522-1110,

Website: Electrify Nova Scotia MHZEV Rebate Program 

   

Green Freight 

Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada 

Description:  The program will help fleets reduce their fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from on-road freight through fleet energy assessments, fleet retrofits, engine repowers, best-practice implementation and the purchase of low-carbon vehicles. There are two streams, municipal governments are listed as eligible applicants on both streams. Stream 1 of the program provides grant funding up to a maximum of $250,000 per Applicant. Stream 2 contributes up to 50% of total project costs, up to a maximum of $5 million per project.

Deadline: Stream 1 is a continuous intake

Contact: 

Website: Green Freight Program 

  

 

Toll-Free Number for the Municipality of the County of Richmond: 1-800-567-2600.

General Inquiries

(902) 226-2400

Schedule of Council / Committee Meetings, Meeting Minutes, Requests to Meet With or Make Presentations to Municipal Council

Shelley David, Municipal Clerk, Communications & Administrative Officer (902) 226-3971

Request Water / Sewer Service

Anne McNamara, Financial Reporting & Accounts Payable and Receivable (902) 226-3976

Engineering / Municipal Services

Chris Boudreau, Director of Public Works/Municipal Engineer (902) 226-3988

Public Works

Chris Boudreau, Director of Public Works/Municipal Engineer (902) 226-3988

Recreation Program Information/Facility Grants/Community Events

• Shannon Mury, Director of Community Development & Recreation (902) 226-3981
• Ronalda Boudreau, Departmental Administrator (902) 226-0663
• Sharla Sampson, Municipal Physical Activity Leader (902) 226-0664
• Danielle Martell, Community Development & Special Projects Officer (902) 226-3982

Property Tax / Area Rates / Water & Sewer Accounts or Payments

• Clint Samson, Revenue Manager (902) 226-3975
• Kathleen Jeffrey, Manager of Accounting & Finance(902) 226-3983

Accounts Payable

Clint Samson, Revenue Manager (902) 226-3975

Land Use Bylaws / Land Use Planning & Development Control / Subdivision Approval / Development Permits and Agreements / Mobile Home Park Bylaw

Eastern District Planning Commission
32 Paint St., Unit 4
Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia  B9A 3J8
Ph: (902) 625-5361
Fax: (902) 625-1559
Toll-Free: 1-888-625-5361

Building / Fire Inspection Services

Harry Martell, Building Inspector 
Ph: (902) 226-2900
Fax: (902) 226-3985

Andre Samson, Assistant Building Official & Fire Inspector
(902) 631-6012

Civic Addresses / Numbering

Bryne Butts, Planning and Development / GIS technician (902) 625-5366

Bylaw Enforcement 

By Law Enforcement Officer (902) 226-2400

Animal Control

Dog Catcher (902) 226-2400

Curbside Collection / Recycling & Composting

(902) 226-2396 (Richmond County Waste Management Facility)

Heritage Property Application

(902) 226-2400

Richmond Arena Ice Rentals

Richmond Arena

Richmond Recreation Program Online Registration

Online Registration

FOIPOP (Freedom of Information Protection of Privacy) Requests

Shelley David, FOIPOP Administrator (902) 226-3971

Dangerous or Unsightly Premises

Shelley David, Municipal Clerk (902) 226-3971

This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which the Municipality of the County of Richmond collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a "User") of the richmondcounty.ca website ("Site").

Personal identification information

We may collect personal identification information from Users in a variety of ways in connection with activities, services, features or resources we make available on our Site. Users may visit our Site anonymously. We will collect personal identification information from Users only if they voluntarily submit such information to us. Users can always refuse to supply personal identification information, except that it may prevent them from engaging in certain Site related activities.

Non-personal identification information

We may collect non-personal identification information about Users whenever they interact with our Site. Non-personal identification information may include the browser name, the type of computer and technical information about Users means of connection to our site, such as the operating system and the Internet service providers utilized and other similar information.

Web browser cookies

Our Site may use "cookies" to enhance User experience. Users web browser places cookies on their hard drive for record-keeping purposes and sometimes to track information about them. Users may choose to set their web browser to refuse cookies or to alert you when cookies are being sent. If they do so, note that some parts of the Site may not function properly.

How we use collected information

The municipality of the County of Richmond may collect and use Users personal information for the following purposes:

• To run and operate our Site

We may need your information to display content on the Site correctly.

• To send periodic emails

We may use the email address to respond to their inquiries, questions, and/or other requests.

How we protect your information

We adopt appropriate data collection, storage and processing practices and security measures to protect against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure or destruction of your personal information, username, password, transaction information and data stored on our Site.

Sharing your personal information

We do not sell, trade, or rent Users personal identification information to others. We may share generic aggregated demographic information not linked to any personal identification information regarding visitors and users with our business partners, trusted affiliates and advertisers for the purposes outlined above. We may use third-party service providers to help us operate our business and the Site or administer activities on our behalf, such as sending out newsletters or surveys. We may share your information with these third parties for those limited purposes provided that you have given us your permission.

We may share or sell information with third parties for marketing or other purposes.

This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which the Municipality of the County of Richmond collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a "User") of the richmondcounty.ca website ("Site").

Electronic newsletters

If User decides to opt-in to our mailing list, they will receive emails that may include company news, updates, related product or service information, etc. If at any time the User would like to unsubscribe from receiving future emails, we include detailed unsubscribe instructions at the bottom of each email or User may contact us via our Site. We may use third party service providers to help us operate our business and the Site or administer activities on our behalf, such as sending out newsletters or surveys. We may share your information with these third parties for those limited purposes provided that you have given us your permission.

Third party websites

Users may find advertising or other content on our Site that link to the sites and services of our partners, suppliers, advertisers, sponsors, licencors and other third parties. We do not control the content or links that appear on these sites and are not responsible for the practices employed by websites linked to or from our Site. In addition, these sites or services, including their content and links, may be constantly changing. These sites and services may have their own privacy policies and customer service policies. Browsing and interaction on any other website, including websites which have a link to our Site, is subject to that website's own terms and policies.

Advertising

Ads appearing on our site may be delivered to Users by advertising partners, who may set cookies. These cookies allow the ad server to recognize your computer each time they send you an online advertisement to compile non-personal identification information about you or others who use your computer. This information allows ad networks to, among other things, deliver targeted advertisements that they believe will be of most interest to you. This privacy policy does not cover the use of cookies by any advertisers.

Google Adsense

Some of the ads may be served by Google. Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to Users based on their visit to our Site and other sites on the Internet. DART uses "non-personally identifiable information" and does NOT track personal information about you, such as your name, email address, physical address, etc. You may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at Google Privacy & Terms.

Changes to this privacy policy

The municipality of the County of Richmond has the discretion to update this privacy policy at any time. When we do, we will post a notification on the main page of our Site, and revise the updated date at the bottom of this page. We encourage Users to frequently check this page for any changes to stay informed about how we are helping to protect the personal information we collect. You acknowledge and agree that it is your responsibility to review this privacy policy periodically and become aware of modifications.

Your acceptance of these terms

By using this Site, you signify your acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree to this policy, please do not use our Site. Your continued use of the Site following the posting of changes to this policy will be deemed your acceptance of those changes.

Contacting us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, the practices of this site, or your dealings with this site, please contact us.

This document was last updated on November 27, 2015