•  
     

  • More Support for Rural Entrepreneurs, Startups, Youth

    More Support for Rural Entrepreneurs, Startups, Youth

    The Province is investing to support rural entrepreneurs, startups and youth to access the research, programs, technology and mentorship they need to innovate and grow their business.

    During an industry event in Yarmouth today, May 5, Growth and Development Minister Colton LeBlanc announced an investment in Ignite Atlantic, a rural startup incubator and accelerator, that will provide stable core funding to the organization over three years.

    “Our rural businesses face unique challenges when it comes to accessing supports to help them innovate, diversify and grow their businesses, and Ignite helps them do just that,” said Minister LeBlanc. “Now more than ever, organizations like Ignite are critically important, and we want to be sure that they have what they need to continue providing support to our incredibly talented businesses in rural communities.”

    This funding will help Ignite maintain and build on programs ranging from hands-on innovation challenges and mentorship for young entrepreneurs to accelerator programs and pilot projects that connect companies with industry and government partners.

    The provincial investment is $1.6 million over three years.

    Quotes:

    “When you invest in rural innovation, you’re not just funding projects – you’re fuelling possibility. Thanks to the leadership of Minister LeBlanc and the Province of Nova Scotia, Ignite Atlantic is continuing to help entrepreneurs build great businesses, empower youth and drive innovation in rural communities. This support proves that opportunity isn’t limited by geography – it’s sparked by belief, vision and action. Together, we’re showing that rural communities can lead in innovation, resilience and impact.”
    — Doug Jones, CEO, Ignite Atlantic

    “Ignite has played such a pivotal role in my entrepreneurial journey, especially being based in a rural area where opportunities and support can often feel out of reach. From the very beginning, Doug Jones has been more than just a mentor – he’s been a steady source of encouragement, guidance and belief when I needed it most. Doug, along with the Ignite team, gave me the courage to back myself, the patience to stay the course and the consistency to keep showing up, even on the tough days. Their support didn’t just help me grow my business – it helped me grow as a person. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
    — Agamani (Mani) Chakrabarty, CEO, Asbb Consulting

    Quick Facts:

    • Ignite Atlantic supports entrepreneurs in bringing their ideas to reality, providing structure, mentorship and opportunities that help entrepreneurs and startup businesses break down complex problems into accessible solutions

    Additional Resources:

    Ignite Atlantic: https://igniteatlantic.com/

  • Business Truth & Reconciliation Business Truth & Reconciliation

    The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce takes proactive steps to promote reconciliation and respect for Indigenous rights within the corporate sector. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action 92, the Chamber urges its members to embrace the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a guiding framework.

     

    Recognizing the importance of education, the Chamber encourages businesses to provide comprehensive training for management and staff on the history of Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of residential schools, Indigenous rights, and Aboriginal-Crown relations. Emphasizing intercultural competency, conflict resolution, and anti-racism, these efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and harmonious corporate environment rooted in mutual understanding and respect.

    Learn more click here