Women’s hockey championship will bring visitors and a boost for local businesses

“The IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship is more than a sporting event—it brings people together, showcases top talent, and grows participation in women’s sports. By welcoming visitors from around the world and highlighting Cape Breton’s hospitality and infrastructure, this event strengthens tourism, builds partnerships, and creates valuable opportunities for local businesses.”
- 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 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship is a celebration of young athletes and the future of women’s hockey. It inspires the next generation to dream big. Beyond the games, it strengthens local pride, supports businesses, and positions the Island as a welcoming year-round destination and a venue for major events.”
- Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade and Member of Parliament for Sydney-Glace Bay

“Women’s and girls’ hockey continues to gain momentum across Nova Scotia, with more players bringing energy and excitement to rinks throughout the province. That growth is why we’re proud to support this world-class event. We’re pleased to welcome players, families and fans to Cape Breton and hope they enjoy outstanding competition and everything the region has to offer.”
- The Honourable David Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, the Province of Nova Scotia

“Hosting the IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship is a proud moment for the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. This event puts us on the global stage, showcases our ability to host major international competitions, celebrates the growth of women’s hockey, and delivers meaningful benefits for local businesses, volunteers, and fans.”
- Cecil Clarke, Mayor of Cape Breton Regional Municipality

“The IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship is an important event on the international hockey calendar for women’s and girls’ hockey, and Hockey Canada is fortunate to host this year’s tournament in Sydney and Membertou. The support of our funding partners is critical to the success of the event, as it ensures participants and fans are treated to a world-class experience while helping grow the sport in Atlantic Canada and across the country.”
- Katherine Henderson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hockey Canada

• The tournament features eight teams and 21 games over seven days of competition held at both the Membertou Sport and Wellness Centre and Centre 200.

• Approximately 250 volunteers, and an anticipated 30,000 fans will be part of the event.

• The non-repayable funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund, which builds on the strengths of communities and provides the tools needed to identify opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

• The Province of Nova Scotia, through the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, is contributing $300,000 and the Cape Breton Regional Municipality is investing $250,000.

Associated links

• 2026 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship
• Innovative Communities Fund

Lola Dandybaeva
Manager of Media Relations
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
lola.dandybaeva@justice.gc.ca

Lori Selig
Acting Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-266-7477
Lori.Selig@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Meredith Hand
Communications Advisor
Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage
902-233-9832
meredith.hand@novascotia.ca

Jenna MacQueen
Communications Advisor
Cape Breton Regional Municipality
902-574-6639
Jemacqueen@cbrm.ns.ca

Spencer Sharkey
Manager, Communications
Hockey Canada
905-906-5327
ssharkey@hockeycanada.ca

Stay connected

Follow ACOA on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram.