Deep tech is thriving on Canada’s East Coast and Nova Scotia is leading the charge

By Lisa Dobson, Invest Nova Scotia
 

When you think of Canada, what comes to mind? Vast landscapes, friendly people, maybe a hockey game or two? But here’s something you might not know: Canada’s Maritime Provinces, particularly Nova Scotia, are becoming powerhouses in deep tech. What is deep tech and why Nova Scotia?

Deep tech is solving fundamental, real-world problems with groundbreaking technologies. Think artificial intelligence (AI), advanced materials, quantum computing, biotech and AI infrastructure. Deep tech is about building solutions that redefine not just how we work – but how entire industries will work in the future.

And Nova Scotia is leading the charge.

With a strong ecosystem of partnerships across industry, government and academic institutions, the region is fostering a uniquely collaborative environment for research and development. This collaborative ecosystem is paving the way for deep tech start-ups and scale-ups to thrive.

Here’s how we’re doing it.

1. A Research and Development Powerhouse

Across the province, world-class research institutions are driving breakthroughs in ocean tech, life sciences, and clean technology. And they’re working closely with the private sector, ensuring businesses have access to cutting-edge ideas and talent.

Nova Scotia is home to the Ocean Frontier Institute, a global leader in ocean research, and just one of the many ocean tech research institutes in the province. If your business operates in ocean tech or relies on advancements in materials or AI for marine applications, this is the business environment for you.

2. A Collaborative Ecosystem

Nova Scotia’s deep tech ecosystem is built around collaboration. Start-ups, established businesses, academic institutions, and government entities work together. This cooperative spirit makes it easier for businesses to access resources, mentorship, and funding.

Volta, Halifax’s innovation hub, offers deep tech start-ups the support they need to scale—from coworking spaces to accelerator programs. Here at Invest Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia’s business development agency, we work to enable business, innovation, and entrepreneurship, including providing early-stage venture capital.

3. Strategic Location with Global Access

Strategically positioned on Canada’s East Coast, our location provides easy access to both North American and European markets. For businesses needing proximity to global shipping routes or time zone alignment with major hubs, Nova Scotia is a strategic choice.

4. Talent You Can Count On

Halifax, Nova Scotia is known as Canada’s University Capital. We are recognized not just for our universities but a highly skilled, educated, loyal and always-growing workforce. Whether you need experts in AI, biotech, or advanced manufacturing, you’ll find a steady pipeline of skilled professionals.

As one of Canada’s most beautiful provinces, Nova Scotia’s coastal location and quality of life make it easier to attract and retain top-tier talent.

5. Competitive Costs and Incentives

Doing business in Nova Scotia is cost-effective compared to other tech hubs like Silicon Valley or Boston. The province offers competitive operating costs, affordable real estate, and government incentives tailored for innovation and growth.

Nova Scotia has programs to recruit specialized talent, while tax credits and grants support R&D and scaling efforts.

Nova Scotia is the Future of Deep Tech

Deep tech thrives on innovation, collaboration, and opportunity. Nova Scotia offers all three. From world-class research and talent to cost-effective operations and a supportive ecosystem, the province has everything a deep tech business needs to succeed.

If you’re ready to expand into a market that values innovation, sustainable AI, and supports your vision, there’s no better time to explore doing business in Nova Scotia.

Expand your search horizons to Nova Scotia, Canada. Reach out today and let's grow your deep tech business here.