The bigger Nova Scotia export story

Whether it's by air, rail, sea, road, or the internet, there are many misconceptions about exporting goods and services. In 2018, the way we bring goods and services to the world isn’t defined by what fits in a shipping container. To better showcase the range of the industries and entrepreneurs contributing to Nova Scotia’s growing export economy, we're excited to unveil our new Nova Scotia Export Achievement Awards. With categories for innovation, diversity and those new to the export scene, this year’s nominated companies highlight our increasingly diverse economy. 

Nominees include businesses from industries such as agri-food, clothing, data analytics platforms, architectural design services, communications systems, motivational speakers and workshop facilitators. Though the products and services vary, all the businesses share one commonality; creating real economic value in Nova Scotia while doing business with the world.

Last year, the Nova Scotia Export Achievement Awards' Exporter of the Year, Hutchinson’s Maple Products, celebrated by getting straight to work. The Aylesford-based maple syrup producer took their grand prize, two Air Canada tickets to a destination of choice, and arranged a self-organized trade mission to Dubai and Europe. Using Nova Scotia Business Inc.'s Trade Market Intelligence service to assess the market, Hutchinson's Maple Products maximized their trip by understanding which distribution channels to target and securing a meeting with one of Europe’s largest distributors. 

Whether it’s selling specialty maple syrup across the Atlantic, or consulting services to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia is developing an export-first business community. Accessing new customers and increasing the bottom line are two key benefits of cross-border business. But exporting also helps reduce business vulnerability, encourages innovation, and increases the likelihood of long-term success. That’s why we support companies through Export Development Education, Trade Missions, and a suite of specialized export programs, including the new Export Logistics Service – China Market.

Though our traditional exports like lobster, fish, and fir trees continue to thrive, there’s more to the Nova Scotia export story.

The 2018 Nova Scotia Export Achievement Awards were given out June 12, at Pier 21 in Halifax.

For the first time, two companies were celebrated as Nova Scotia Exporters of the Year. Spring Loaded Technology was awarded the accolade of Exporter of the Year, under $5 million, and Tony’s Meats received the prize for Exporter of the Year, over $5 million.

Award category winners were:

• New Exporter Champion of the Year – Dormie Workshop, Halifax
• Business of Diversity Champion of the Year – Eleanor Beaton and Company Communications, Windsor
• Canadian Market Champion of the Year – Tony’s Meats, Antigonish
• International Market Champion of the Year – BlueLight Analytics, Halifax
• Innovation in Business Champion of the Year – InterTalk Critical Information Systems, Dartmouth

To learn more about how NSBI can help you grow your business, reach out to a Regional Business Development Advisor near you.