ACOA — Regional Economic Growth through Innovation — Business Scale-up and Productivity

For Atlantic Canadian businesses ready to move beyond steady growth and into larger-scale expansion, access to flexible financing can make all the difference. The ACOA Regional Economic Growth through Innovation — Business Scale-up and Productivity stream is designed for organizations that want to boost productivity, adopt new technologies, or break into new markets, while keeping their cash flow manageable during periods of change. Administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, this initiative supports projects that strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness, even if the business itself operates elsewhere in Canada, as long as the benefits are felt in Atlantic Canada.

This program focuses on practical, growth-oriented investments such as expanding operations, commercializing innovative processes, developing new products, or improving efficiency through technology. Funding is provided as a repayable contribution, typically interest-free and unsecured, which can make it more accessible than traditional financing for businesses taking on ambitious projects. Both for-profit companies and certain non-profit organizations serving businesses may be eligible, depending on the nature and impact of the project.

Because funding amounts and repayment terms are tailored to each project, the program works best for organizations with clear growth plans and measurable economic outcomes for the region. Businesses considering a major scale-up or productivity investment may want to explore the details further to see how this opportunity could support their next stage of growth.