2019-20 Departmental Plan Raison d’être, mandate and role

Raison d’être

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) was established in 1987 and is the federal department responsible for the Government of Canada’s economic development efforts in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development is responsible for this organization. The Minister’s powers, duties and functions are set out in the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Act.

The Agency works to create opportunities for economic growth in Atlantic Canada by helping businesses become more competitive, innovative and productive, by working with diverse communities to develop and diversify local economies, and by championing the strengths of the region. Together with Atlantic Canadians, ACOA is building a stronger economy.

Mandate and role

ACOA plays an important role in developing and supporting policies and programs that strengthen the region’s economy. Its responsibilities are stated in the Agency’s legislation, which mandates the organization “to increase opportunity for economic development in Atlantic Canada and, more particularly, to enhance the growth of earned incomes and employment opportunities in that region.”^[1]

Although the Agency’s policies and program tools have evolved since its inception, the overall goal remains constant: ACOA is dedicated to helping the Atlantic region realize its full economic potential in terms of productivity, innovation, competitiveness and growth. This is achieved by addressing structural changes in the economy, helping communities and businesses to overcome challenges, and capitalizing on opportunities. ACOA is committed to helping the region build its capacity and make the transition to a stronger economy. These responsibilities are aligned with the minister’s mandate letter commitments to support economic growth and build on competitive regional advantages.

For more information on the Department’s organizational mandate letter commitments, see the Minister’s mandate letter.

[1] Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. 41 (4th Supp.)