Program Helps Strengthen Competitiveness of Nova Scotia Businesses

More Nova Scotia companies are selling more goods and services by competing and winning in new global markets.

The Global Business Accelerator Program, part of the province's jobsHere plan, connects Nova Scotia companies to business experts who can help build world class companies that can compete anywhere.

"jobsHere is setting the province up to compete and thrive in the global marketplace," said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Maurice Smith, on behalf of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Percy Paris. "Now is the time to get ready to build a competitive economy that Nova Scotians and their families are proud to be part of."

Companies like River's Bend, near Heatherton, Antigonish Co., which is already competing in global markets, will have the opportunity to be even more competitive.

"Securing an export market can be challenging for a small business," said Paul van de Wiel, owner of River's Bend. "Knowing where to look geographically, finding credible contacts in the market, determining and overcoming potential trade barriers are some of the deterrents to getting started. This program can help small businesses secure markets for future growth."

Businesses will be reimbursed 80 per cent, up to a maximum of $35,000, of the eligible costs of hiring a professional with international business expertise. The program, which is administered by Nova Scotia Business Inc., is expected to support 10 applications this year.

Industry associations also see the benefit to their members.

"The Global Business Accelerator Program will support Nova Scotia's high-value aerospace, defence and marine industries and increase their capacity to go global and compete with the best in the world," said Gordon Gale, executive director of Aerospace and Defence Industry Association of Nova Scotia.

"Our companies are already selling into the value chains of some of the world's biggest companies. This program will help them access local and international expertise on how best to plan and manage international growth."

Helping businesses compete globally is one of the three pillars of jobsHere. More than 300 Nova Scotia companies are being supported through the province's international business development programs.

"This program is helping companies be more innovative so they can sell goods and services all over the world. Making businesses more globally competitive will help them compete for some of the big opportunities on the horizon," added Mr. Smith.

This year's deadline for businesses to submit applications is March 29.

More information on the program, including guidelines and an application form, is available at www.gov.ns.ca/econ/gbap .