Government of Canada invests in Cape Breton Exhibition grounds
News release
Improvements will prepare the facility for larger events and year-round programming
October 18, 2025 · North Sydney, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
The Government of Canada is working with partners to drive community infrastructure projects that strengthen local economies, support inclusive growth, and make life better for Canadians.
Today, Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade and Member of Parliament for Sydney—Glace Bay, announced a non-repayable contribution of $800,000 to the Cape Breton Exhibition Society to renovate and upgrade several buildings and improve the exhibition grounds.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
The project will create a safe, inclusive venue capable of hosting a wide range of events, attracting visitors to the region throughout the year. Upgrades include roofing, fencing, structural updates, bleachers, siding, electrical systems, foundation work, washroom and kitchen upgrades, and exterior slab and grading. Once complete, the modernized grounds will accommodate larger events and audiences, supporting tourism and local business growth.
Targeted investments like the one announced today are building stronger, more connected communities across Atlantic Canada—part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to grow one Canadian economy that works for everyone.
Quotes
“Investing in community infrastructure is about more than just building shared spaces. It’s about people – bringing neighbours and visitors together and helping local businesses thrive. By working with partners at every level, we’re creating opportunities for growth and making sure Atlantic Canada stays a great place to live, work, and visit.”
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“The Cape Breton Exhibition grounds are part of our Island’s identity and its future. Renewing these facilities will help preserve Cape Breton’s agricultural heritage while opening the door to larger events that draw in visitors and strengthen our local economy.”
- Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade and Member of Parliament for Sydney—Glace Bay
“The Cape Breton Exhibition grounds have long been a gathering place for families, farmers and visitors from across the Island. This investment helps preserve that legacy while ensuring the site remains a vibrant, inclusive space for events, recreation and cultural celebration.”
- Fred Tilley, Minister of Public Works and MLA for Northside–Westmount, on behalf of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage Minister Dave Ritcey
“The Cape Breton Exhibition grounds hold a special place in our community’s history. This investment will not only preserve a long-standing local tradition, but also create new opportunities to host larger events and evolve into a year-round venue that supports community gatherings, local businesses, and the next generation of Cape Breton traditions.”
- Cecil Clarke, Mayor of Cape Breton Regional Municipality
“The contributions of all three levels of government ensures the long-term sustainability of the Exhibition Grounds which is an important piece of event infrastructure not only on the Northside, but for the entire Cape Breton Regional Municipality.”
- Donald MacNeil, Chair, Cape Breton Exhibition Society
Quick facts
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The 6.8-acre grounds host the Cape Breton Exhibition (CBEx), a cornerstone community event set to celebrate its 110th anniversary in 2026.
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This five-day event includes performances and exhibits that showcase the region's agricultural industry.
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The Government of Canada funding is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Innovative Communities Fund which builds on the strengths of communities and provides the tools needed to identify opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
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The Province of Nova Scotia, through the Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage is contributing $1,300,000 to the project. Cape Breton Regional Municipality is contributing $800,000. The client is contributing $325,000.
Associated links
Contacts
Natasha Kochhar
Director of Projects and Caucus Relations
Office of the Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Natasha.Kochhar@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Lori Selig
Acting Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-266-7477
Lori.Selig@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Rob Maguire
Director of Communications
Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage
Province of Nova Scotia
rob.maguire@novascotia.ca
Jenna MacQueen
Communications Advisor
Cape Breton Regional Municipality
902-574-6639
Jemacqueen@cbrm.ns.ca
Paul MacDonald
Vice-President
Cape Breton Exhibition Society
902-565-0117
pmacdonald@cbrm.ns.ca
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