Backgrounder: Empowering entrepreneurship and fueling local business growth in New Brunswick

February 21, 2025 · Fredericton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

The Government of Canada is allocating a total of $3,007,434 for the 2024-2025 fiscal year through its Community Futures Program to support the 10 Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) in New Brunswick and the New Brunswick Association of CBDCs.See below for individual CBDC funding amounts and examples of recent successful initiatives.

See below for individual CBDC funding amounts and examples of recent successful initiatives.

CBDC Charlotte Kings is receiving $255,604 to serve rural communities in the Kings and Queens counties. With support from CBDC Charlotte Kings, Beer Daddy BBQ successfully expanded its operations from a food truck to a thriving brick-and-mortar restaurant, allowing the business to serve even more customers while continuing to offer a unique dining experience.

CBDC Chaleur serves the northeastern region of New Brunswick and is receiving $325,961. CBDC Chaleur helped Thermalwood Canada increase its manufacturing capacity, supporting the company’s ability to meet rising demand for sustainable wood products.

CBDC Kent is receiving $328,186 to serve rural communities in Kent County. CBDC Kent proudly holds the title of the oldest CBDC in New Brunswick, championing local businesses since its incorporation in 1981. With CBDC Kent’s assistance, Le Pays de la Sagouine was able to expand its cultural offerings and preserve Acadian heritage through immersive storytelling and performances.

CBDC Madawaska is receiving $304,413 to serve rural communities in the Edmundston region. CBDC Madawaska helped launch Hygiène dentaire mobile Aniso, improving access to dental care by providing mobile services to underserved communities.

CBDC Northumberland serves the Northumberland region and is receiving $248,428. Gabi’s Pie Shoppe in Miramichi was launched with the help of CBDC Northumberland and has since become a popular local destination, known for its quality products, inviting atmosphere and quickly sold-out treats.

CBDC Péninsule acadienne serves the Acadian Peninsula and is receiving $284,580. CBDC Péninsule acadienne supports the Réseau des jeunes en affaires, a network dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship among young people in the Acadian Peninsula, providing them with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to develop their business ideas.

CBDC Restigouche is receiving $276,158 to serve rural communities of central northern New Brunswick. CBDC Restigouche supports workforce development through the Pre-Employability Program, which helps individuals build essential job skills and prepares them for career success.

CBDC Southwest is receiving $282,495 to serve the vibrant southwestern region of New Brunswick. With support from CBDC Southwest, The Artisan District offers a curated collection of handmade crafts from over 70 artists, helping local creators gain visibility and recognition.

CBDC Victoria Madawaska-South is receiving $271,609 to serve the Grand Falls region of New Brunswick. CBDC Victoria Madawaska-South supported Capture Therapeutics by PhysioFirst  expand its tele-rehabilitation services, making innovative physiotherapy accessible to rural communities.

CBDC Westmorland-Albert is receiving $220,000 to serve the Westmorland and Albert counties. Through CBDC Westmorland-Albert’s funding and guidance, Shediac Wonderland was able to expand its seasonal offerings and boost local tourism.

The New Brunswick Association of Community Business Development Corporations (NBACBDC) is receiving $210,000 and supports all 10 CBDCs of the province in both official languages. The NBACBDC delivers various programs and initiatives that provide additional services to all NB entrepreneurs through the CBDCs. 
 

Related products

• News release: Empowering entrepreneurship and fueling local business growth in New Brunswick
   

Associated links

• Supporting rural entrepreneurial opportunities across Atlantic Canada
• New Brunswick Association of CBDCs
• Community Futures Program
• Atlantic Association of CBDCs