Government of Canada announces support to help Dartmouth companies modernize, compete, and reach new markets
News release
Strengthening Canadian productivity and supply chains in evolving international markets
March 24, 2026 · Dartmouth, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Atlantic Canadian businesses are modernizing to drive productivity and build resilience in a shifting global economy. By helping firms optimize supply chains and adopt the technologies they need to compete in new markets, the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) is strengthening Atlantic Canada’s industrial capacity and helping the region lead on the world stage.
Today, Braedon Clark, Member of Parliament for Sackville—Bedford—Preston, announced a federal investment of nearly $1.3 million through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative to support three businesses in Dartmouth.
These investments will support the following organizations as they modernize operations, adopt new technologies, expand capacity, and improve processes, helping strengthen productivity, supply chains, and market reach.
- Outdoor-Fit Exercise Systems Inc. will expand and upgrade its manufacturing facility through new automation equipment and specialized expertise to support process improvements, product development, and market diversification ($770,250).
- Reftek Systems Inc. will hire staff and acquire equipment to establish a specialized sensor lab in the Halifax Regional Municipality to reinforce supply chain reliability ($267,500).
- Aurea Technologies Inc. will lower production costs for its Shine 2.0 turbine and to support prototyping, compliance testing, and cybersecurity, as well as global business development to expand into international markets ($250,180).
Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a stronger economy to make life more affordable and helping Canadian businesses succeed in a more uncertain global economy. By investing in productivity, innovation, and stronger supply chains, firms have access to the support they need to adapt, modernize, and pursue new market opportunities.
This 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.
Quotes
“When we invest in the productivity of Atlantic Canadian businesses, we are sharpening Canada’s competitive edge. The Regional Tariff Response Initiative provides the tools local companies need to modernize their operations and build the strength required to thrive in a changing global marketplace.”
- 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
“Dartmouth is home to innovative companies that are creating good jobs and strengthening our local economy. These investments are helping businesses like Outdoor-Fit Exercise Systems Inc., Reftek Systems Inc., and Aurea Technologies modernize their operations, adopt new technologies, and reach new markets. By supporting their growth, we’re building stronger supply chains and positioning Dartmouth as a hub for growth and innovation in Atlantic Canada.”
- Braedon Clark, Member of Parliament for Sackville—Bedford—Preston
Quick facts
-
Founded in 2003, Outdoor-Fit-Exercise Systems designs and manufactures outdoor exercise equipment that delivers the same biomechanical quality as top indoor gym machine.
-
Founded in 1975, Reftek Systems Inc. provides decades of experience design and supporting seismic monitoring systems for every part of the world, and every environmental challenges.
-
Founded in 2017, Aurea Technologies develops portable wind turbines so anyone can generate and store their own renewable power anytime, anywhere, whether exploring off-grid, responding to a power outage, or working in the field.
-
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative is a $1 billion national investment to help Canadian businesses respond to global trade pressures, strengthen productivity, and build long-term competitiveness.
-
In Atlantic Canada, ACOA is delivering $80 million under the Regional Tariff Response Initiative to support small and medium-sized enterprises as they modernize operations, strengthen supply chains, and pursue new market opportunities.
-
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative works alongside the new $500 million Strategic Response Fund and is part of a broader suite of federal measures to help Canadian businesses adapt to trade disruptions and market uncertainty.
-
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative includes targeted funding for key areas of Canada’s economy, including up to $150 million to support the steel sector, $150 million to strengthen domestic food production and supply chains, and up to $100 million to support the automotive sector, helping businesses build capacity, modernize operations, and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Associated links
- Prime Minister Carney launches new strategy to transform Canada’s auto industry | Prime Minister of Canada
- Prime Minister Carney announces new measures to make groceries and other essentials more affordable for Canadians | Prime Minister of Canada
- Learn more about the Regional Tariff Response Initiative in Atlantic Canada
- Canada-United States: Overview and federal supports - Canada.ca
- Resources and tools for Canadian exporters facing U.S. tariffs - Tradecommissioner.gc.ca
- Outdoor-Fit-Exercise Systems
- Reftek Systems
- Aurea Technologies
Contacts
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
Media Relations
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Stay connected
Follow ACOA on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.