Federal Government Invests Over $3.3 Million in Nine Indigenous-Led Projects Across Nova Scotia
On October 21, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency announced more than $3.3 million in federal funding for nine Indigenous-led projects in Nova Scotia, supporting entrepreneurship, workforce development, and economic opportunities in sectors including fisheries, tourism, clean technology, and defence procurement.
On October 21, Sean Fraser, the minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced federal investments totaling more than $3.3 million to support nine Indigenous-led projects across Nova Scotia. The funding is intended to advance economic reconciliation by supporting entrepreneurship, research, workforce development, and expanded economic opportunities in sectors such as fisheries, tourism, clean technology, and defence procurement. 
The largest single investment is $1.2 million directed to Ulnooweg Development Group Incorporated in Millbrook through ACOA’s Business Development Program. This funding will support the delivery of Indigenous business financing and advisory services, as well as the establishment of positions to advance strategic partnerships and attract investment.
In Halifax, the Mi’Kmaw Native Friendship Society will receive a combined total of $689,500 across two projects. This includes $500,000 to launch Atlantic Canada’s first Indigenous Collaborative Business Program and $189,500—comprising $100,000 and $89,500 from Indigenous Services Canada—for the Wije’winen Centre.
The Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations in Dartmouth will receive $653,363 through ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program. Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation in Afton Station will receive a total of $418,579, consisting of $246,750 from ACOA and $171,829 from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, to support an oyster farm expansion aimed at increasing production and creating accessible employment opportunities.
Additional recipients include the Millbrook Cultural and Heritage Centre at Millbrook First Nation, which will receive $125,500 ($100,000 from ACOA and $25,500 from Indigenous Services Canada) to develop interpretive plans and visitor experiences. Kluskap Suliewei Group Limited Partnership in Hantsport will receive a total of $101,798, split between $58,109 from ACOA and $43,689 from Indigenous Services Canada. Wskijnu’k M’tmo’taqnuow Agency on Chapel Island will receive $100,000 through ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program. Awtij Energy Incorporated in Port Williams will receive a $33,015 non-repayable grant through the same ACOA program. 
Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty stated that these investments help create sustainable prosperity and stronger communities across Atlantic Canada. The funded initiatives are designed to provide capacity, connections, and assets for lasting economic benefits, expand business opportunities, attract visitors, strengthen workforce and procurement readiness, open doors to new markets, pursue defence supply chain and major submarine procurement opportunities, and expand export opportunities in marine artificial intelligence and clean technology.