Productivity and Innovation Voucher Program

The Productivity and Innovation Voucher Program (PIVP) is now open.

Applications for the PIVP will be accepted from April 1, 2026, until May 15, 2026, by 5:00 p.m. ADT. 

All projects must be completed before March 16, 2027.

You can download the Guidelines, FAQ, and the Application Form by clicking the link on the sidebar under Related Documents.

The Productivity & Innovation Voucher Program (PIVP) supports Nova Scotia businesses in advancing applied innovation projects that deliver clear, measurable business outcomes.

Through the program, companies can work with Nova Scotia post-secondary institutions to develop new or improved products, services, or processes, strengthen operations, and improve competitiveness.

This program is best suited for businesses with a clearly defined project and a specific technical or development need.  

Funding

There are two tiers of the PIVP:

• Tier 1: Up to $15,000 to support a new project  
• Tier 2: Up to $25,000 to build on previously completed Tier 1 work  

All applications are assessed through a competitive process. Funding is not guaranteed. 

Program Structure & Limits

• A business may receive funding for one project per fiscal year  
• A business may hold one active voucher at a time  
• A business may undertake up to two Tier 1 projects over time, provided each is distinct  
• Each Tier 1 project may be eligible for one corresponding Tier 2 project  
• A business may receive a maximum of four vouchers through the program  
• Progression from Tier 1 to Tier 2 is not guaranteed  

Refer to the Program Guidelines for full details on eligibility, project sequencing, and program rules. 

Who Can Apply

To be eligible, a business must:

• Be a Nova Scotia registered business in good standing  
• Have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia  
• Have most of its workforce based in Nova Scotia  
• Have fewer than 100 employees  
• Demonstrate a clear business plan and market approach  

Eligibility is determined at the sole discretion of Invest Nova Scotia. See Program Guidelines for full eligibility criteria and exclusions. 

Eligible Projects

Projects must focus on practical, applied work that leads to a clear business outcome within the program timeframe. Examples include:

• Applied research  
• Engineering or technical development  
• Prototyping  
• Product or process development  
• Testing and validation  
• Market or technical feasibility analysis  
• Advanced technical development and modelling  

Projects should demonstrate the potential to improve productivity, innovation, or competitiveness. 

Advanced Data & AI Projects

Projects involving advanced data and artificial intelligence are encouraged where they demonstrate:

• A clear technical approach  
• Access to required data and systems  
• Strong potential for measurable business impact  

These projects often require specialized expertise, infrastructure, and resources. Where justified, they may be considered for Tier 1 funding up to $25,000, based on scope and technical requirements. 

Service Providers

Projects must be completed with a Nova Scotia post-secondary academic institution. See the full list of Eligible Service Providers at the bottom of this page.

Applicants must identify and engage a Service Provider prior to submitting an application. The researcher must be at arm’s length from the business. 

How Applications Are Assessed

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Strength and clarity of the project  
• Alignment with the company’s business goals  
• Feasibility and ability to execute  
• Potential for measurable outcomes  

Important Dates

Applications for the PIVP will be accepted from April 1, 2026, until May 15, 2026, by 5:00 p.m. ADT.

All projects must be completed before March 16, 2027. 

Two-Step Identity Verification

We use two-step verification for our online forms. Each time you apply or submit a claim, you will be asked to:

• Enter your Invest Nova Scotia Customer Number and associated email address to receive a one-time code  
• Enter the one-time code to verify your identity and access the online form  

Important: If this is your first time applying to a program with Invest Nova Scotia, or you do not know your Customer Number, please contact your Regional Business Development Advisor. 

How to Apply

• Connect with a Regional Business Development Advisor  
• Submit your application through the online form  
• Ensure all required information is included  

Projects must begin after submission of a complete application. Costs incurred prior to approval are at the applicant’s risk. Applications require supporting documentation from both the business and Service Provider (see Apply Online section for details). 

There is no application fee. 

Apply Online

To ensure your application is complete:

• Download, complete, and upload the required forms (Application Form) through the online portal before the application deadline  
• Refer to the Program Guidelines and FAQ for full application requirements (under Related Documents)

APPLY NOW
 

Eligible Service Providers