How can ACOA help me?

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is 1 of 7 regional development agencies across the country. It funds Atlantic Canada businesses, whether they are starting up, looking to grow, adopting environmentally friendly approaches, becoming more competitive, modernizing their equipment or increasing exports. It also works with local communities to build their economies.

TControl panel used in connection to maintenance, repair and overhaul of various aircraft engines

Vector Aerospace Engine Services, Slemon Park, P.E.I.



ACOA creates and promotes opportunities for economic growth in the region by helping businesses become more competitive, innovative and productive. It works with communities to develop their economies, helping them create jobs and a better quality of life for all Atlantic Canadians, including women, Indigenous peoples, racialized Canadians, persons with disabilities and the LGBTQ2+ community. It champions the strengths of Atlantic Canada.

Looking to start a business

Do you have a great business idea that needs funding to get off the ground? ACOA may have a program for you! We have more than one, in fact. Have a look at our list of programs and services to find the one that is right for you. 

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Looking to grow your business

If you’re looking to expand or modernize, become more productive, or stay competitive – these ACOA programs are for you. 

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Looking for help with your green transition

Are you looking to reduce costs by greening a business or a community? ACOA can provide you with information, connections, and programs that may help you on your journey as we move toward a net-zero economy.

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Looking to reach new markets

Are you in the export business? Are you looking to expand to new markets? If you need financial assistance to grow your exports, try one of these ACOA programs. 

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Looking to recruit new talent

Is finding and attracting the right employees the next step of your growth plan? ACOA can help you with that. 

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Support for communities

If your community is looking to develop infrastructure, ACOA may have a program for you. Find out how ACOA resources can help your community thrive. 

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Support for non-profits

Do you run a non-profit organization that supports small rural businesses? ACOA can help you help them. 

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Not sure where to start?

Let us help you with that. Check out these tools from the Government of Canada:

Contact us today!

You can also use ACOA Business Information Services – our one-stop information shop.

Call one of our bilingual agents now at 1-888-576-4444.

Or contact us by email:


Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (Atlantic time)

Business impact stories

A.F. Theriault produces diverse types of vessels designed and built in the predominantly francophone community of Meteghan River, Nova Scotia to serve Canada's unique, expansive coastline and our network of coastal marine communities.

In May 2022 Moncton-based Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada (ABAC) will celebrate its 20th anniversary. In just two short decades, the only professional ballet company in Atlantic Canada has toured original creations throughout Canada, the U.S. and Europe.

Fireworks Feast, part of the Inn at Bay Fortune and Inn at Fortune Bridge family of visitor destinations, was one of many popular summer experiences hit by the hard reality of a pandemic.

ACOA news releases

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