Apply for project funding from the Community Economic Development Fund
Non-profits, industry associations, sector organizations, social enterprises, municipalities, academic institutions and other organizations that benefit the public can apply for funding for projects that increase economic competitiveness and productivity. For-profit businesses are not eligible for funding. For the current application intake period, you need to apply by 31 January 2025.
Use the Community Economic Development Fund Application Form to apply for funding to help sectors and communities become more competitive.
The Community Economic Development Fund helps sectors and communities become more competitive by funding projects that have a broad impact on a sector or region. The fund considers projects that promote cooperation and partnerships.
Evaluation criteria
Funding proposals need to:
- improve Nova Scotia’s competitiveness and increase productivity
- demonstrate partnerships with other organizations (partnerships can include the private sector, academic institutions and non-profit organizations)
- create or develop widespread benefits for a sector or industry within Nova Scotia
- describe metrics for success and a method to monitor progress
- demonstrate long-term benefits for a specific sector or industry within Nova Scotia
- demonstrate a combination of proven leadership, financial capital and human capital in a project
Eligibility
Non-profits, industry associations, sector organizations, social enterprises, municipalities, academic institutions and other organizations that benefit the public (not private shareholders) can apply for funding.
For-profit businesses are not eligible for funding.
Projects can include initiatives for sector development, economic diversification, workforce competitiveness, applied research and development and pilot projects.
The fund is open for applications 3 times per year. For the current application intake period, you need to apply by 31 January 2025.
How to apply
- Review the Community Economic Development Fund Application Guide.
- Complete the application form.
- Check the application for details on all required supporting documents.
- Complete a project proposal.
- Send your completed application, supporting documents and project proposal by mail, fax or email.
- The Community Economic Development Fund sends you confirmation that it received your application within 1 week of submitting your application.
- The Community Economic Development Fund Board assesses your application and supporting documents, and lets you know if your project will receive funding.
How long it takes
It should take 10 to 12 weeks to find out if your project is approved for funding. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your application hasn’t been filled in correctly. It also depends on the complexity of the project.
Cost
There is no cost to apply.
Before you start
Make sure you have:
- total cost of proposed project
- financial and in-kind funding sources (both approved and declined)
- risks that can impact the success of the project
- information on how the organization’s profits are used to benefit the public
- information on how the proposed project will improve economic competitiveness and productivity
- information on how you will measure success and monitor progress
- long-term benefits this project will have in Nova Scotia
- description of proven leadership, and financial and human resources required for the project
- project proposal
You may also need to provide external financial statements or a business plan.