Manufacturing in Nova Scotia – A Supportive and Responsive Ecosystem

From leading-edge research and development environments, to readily available and skilled talent, to partnerships committed to advancing business, Nova Scotia is home to a unique manufacturing ecosystem that benefits companies of all sizes.

With a focus on automation, digitization, and robotics, our manufacturing industry is not just reshaping products, but also the high value-added processes by which the products are made. This focus includes industries such as automotive, aerospace, metal fabrication, electronics, tires, and plastics.

Nova Scotia’s manufacturing sector and the ecosystem that supports it is as unique as the businesses that operate here.

Below are a few examples of the companies and their specialized products and services putting our provincial manufacturing industry on the global map.

Developing bioactive ingredients and natural health products from wild Atlantic sea cucumber. For more than 40 years, AKSO Marine Biotech has concentrated on research and development to produce quality ingredients from first-class raw materials. The company focuses on continuous research and leveraging scientific partnerships with local and international academia.

Monitoring seismic activity around the world from Nova Scotia. REF TEK Systems Inc. provides global businesses with information to potentially mitigate catastrophic events like earthquakes and tsunamis. REF TEK products are designed to withstand the world’s harshest climates, from Antarctica to the Gobi Desert.

Turning plastic bottles into high-performance outerwear. Fairechild is a true champion for the circular economy. The company uses 100% plastic bottles to create textiles called Sympatex. The production process uses 60% less energy and 94% less water compared to oil-based polymers. And the best part? The garments themselves are recyclable. After many years of wear, Fairechild will take the garment back to ensure the material is reused.

Finding solutions for every and any engineering problem. Have an idea or concept for your business but aren’t sure it will work? The team at Enginuity solves engineering problems for organizations across a variety of industries. Enginuity is a Canadian leader in mechanical engineering, electronics design, robotics, automation, and product design. If the technology doesn’t exist, Enginuity is up for designing it.

Producing 5,000 tons of steel annually. RKO Steel got their start serving the oils rigs off the coast of Nova Scotia and have steadily expanded since 1983 to serve many other industries. From design to delivery, industrial to residential, RKO Steel provides clients with high-grade manufactured steel products, quality coatings, and reliable steel construction. RKO Steel was the first company in their industry to become ISO 9002 registered, and recently won the North American Steel Fabricator of the Year award.

Overhauling aircraft piston engines for a global customer base. Certified by Transport Canada and the European Aviation Safety Agency, Aerotec Engines maintains aircraft engines for a worldwide fleet. For more than 23 years, industry-leading companies have turned to Aerotec for their unique expertise. Quality is ensured with extensive in-house testing.

Challenging the status quo of leak detection. Prosaris uses ultrasonic technology to help operators track down and manage leaks quickly and efficiently. Not only is Prosaris ensuring businesses are environmentally responsible, but their products are also a safeguard for operating expenses. Their technology locates and locks onto a noise source of an air or gas leak by recording leaks and data, enabling analysis and assessment, and supporting leak remediation management and correction.

Delivering a streamlined fresh lobster experience. Lobster Made Easy perfected a Nova Scotia delicacy with a revolutionary method of lobster preparation. Tired of the mess and odour of lobster preparation? Lobster Made Easy packaging allows for a streamlined approach to steaming lobster using the microwave. Not only is the product delicious, but the lobster is sourced sustainably in our pristine Nova Scotia waters.

Curious to learn more about Nova Scotia’s unique manufacturing industry and ecosystem? Connect with us today and learn how we can help with your growth plans. Whether you’re a business operating in Nova Scotia or an international company looking to expand in the province, Invest Nova Scotia has the advice, programs and services to support growth at all stages. Contact us today to get started.