Export Accelerator for Diverse-Owned Businesses

Applications for Export Accelerator for Diverse-Owned Businesses are now open.

Applications are open from June 9, 2026, to July 7, 2026, at 3:00 PM (ADT).

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

The Export Accelerator for Diverse-Owned Businesses helps diverse-owned businesses in Nova Scotia expand into new Canadian markets.

The program provides one-on-one consulting, strategic connections, and practical guidance to help companies refine their market-entry strategy and build partnerships across Canada.

Participants work with an experienced consultant over an eight-week period to strengthen their export readiness and accelerate market expansion.

Program benefits

The Export Accelerator provides approximately $3,750 in expert advisory services for a $200 participation fee.

Participants receive:

• One-on-one consulting with an expert in Canadian market expansion
• A gap analysis to identify export readiness and growth opportunities
• Introductions to pre-vetted buyers, distributors, or partners in target markets
• Matchmaking support to help develop strategic partnerships

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a diverse-owned business (at least 51% owned and operated by members of the following communities):
  • 2SLGBTQIA+
  • Indigenous
  • Black or African Nova Scotian
  • Other racialized communities
  • Women
  • Veterans
  • Persons with disabilities
• Be a Nova Scotia registered business in good standing. Federally registered businesses must also hold extra-provincial incorporation, including Nova Scotia.
• Have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia
• Generate more than $300,000 in annual revenue
• Be able to provide two years of financial records upon request
• Have a product or service currently successful in Nova Scotia
• Have a draft export plan (create your plan here) and be prepared to expand into other Canadian markets
• Have the majority of employees based in Nova Scotia

Participant commitment

Participating companies must commit to the following:

• A primary decision-maker (e.g., CEO, founder, or export/marketing lead) must participate in the eight-week program
• Dedicate approximately 1–1.5 hours per week to one-on-one consulting sessions
• Work with the Invest Nova Scotia–appointed consultant for the duration of the program

Important information & dates

Applications for Export Accelerator for Diverse-Owned Businesses is now open.  

Completed applications must be submitted by 3:00 PM (ADT) on July 7, 2026. Applications received after this deadline will not be accepted or reviewed.

To ensure personalized support, up to 10 businesses will be selected for the first program cohort. Applications may close earlier if capacity is reached.

How to Apply

To apply for the Export Accelerator for Diverse-Owned Businesses:

1. Prepare required documents
   • Draft export strategy for Canadian markets (Export Strategy Canvas)
   • Supplier Diversity certification (optional)
      
2. Submit your application
   • Complete the online application through the Invest Nova Scotia submission page
      
3. Discussion (if applicable)
   • Shortlisted applicants may be invited to a brief interview 
      
4. Program confirmation
   • Successful applicants will be offered a LOA (Letter of Acceptance) and confirm their participation with the $200 program fee

If this is your first time applying to a program with Invest Nova Scotia, please contact Tamasha Fernando to request your Customer Number. You will need this number to submit your application online. 

APPLY NOW

Additional information

*Invest Nova Scotia is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive business environment. All eligible businesses are encouraged to apply.

**Program details are subject to change.