Deadline Date: May 31, 2026
The Market Opportunities and Diversification Program offers support to eligible producers, processors, agri-businesses and agricultural industry associations in Nova Scotia to expand domestic and export market opportunities through marketing and diversification activities.
The program focuses on determining product and packaging modifications required for export markets, undertaking marketing activities for changing domestic and international market requirements, conducting international market studies, digital marketing activities for local and international markets, website development and updates, e-commerce, graphic design for packaging and marketing materials, trade show booth design, product photography and video production, and international trade event support including consolidated product sample shipping costs and logistical assistance.
The program also welcomes applications from underrepresented and underserved communities including women, persons with disabilities, Black and African Nova Scotians, Mi’kmaq, Indigenous peoples, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and racialized communities.
The total maximum funding available to an applicant over the life of the Sustainable CAP Program from 2023 to 2028 is CAD 60,000. Farms and agri-businesses receive funding based on annual income levels, with funding ranging from CAD 5,000 to CAD 20,000 annually. Agricultural industry associations may apply for up to CAD 20,000 per year.
Eligible expenses include international market research and planning activities, digital marketing initiatives, website development, e-commerce enhancements, product label and packaging design, marketing material design, product photography, video production, and support for international trade events. Expenses such as travel, administrative overhead, software licensing fees, standard software purchases, operating expenses, wages, printing and packaging costs, and HST are not eligible for reimbursement.
Eligible applicants under Stream 1 include agricultural industry associations. Streams 2 and 3 are open to registered farms, Mi’kmaq conducting farming activities in Mi’kmaw communities, agri-businesses, and agricultural industry associations. Farms must be registered under the Farm Registration Act, actively farming during the program year, operated by applicants aged 19 years or older, and generate at least CAD 30,000 in eligible annual gross farming income.
Agri-businesses must represent identifiable Nova Scotia agriculture and agri-food products and generate a minimum eligible gross income of CAD 30,000 annually. Agricultural industry associations must demonstrate not-for-profit status and represent identifiable Nova Scotia agriculture and agri-food products.
For more information, visit Nova Scotia.
