Government of Canada announces support to help Yarmouth companies modernize, compete, and reach new markets
News release
Strengthening Canadian productivity and supply chains in evolving international markets
April 8, 2026 · Yarmouth, 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, Chris d’Entremont, Member of Parliament for Acadie—Annapolis, announced federal investments totaling more than $1.2 million, through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), to support two businesses in Yarmouth.
These investments will support the following organizations as they adopt new technologies, expand capacity, and improve processes, helping strengthen productivity, supply chains, and market reach. Together, the projects will help support business growth, resilience, and jobs across the region.
- Novatec Braids Ltd. will acquire equipment to expand manufacturing capacity, enhance quality, and improve efficiencies, along with advancing marketing and production strategies to explore untapped market opportunities ($900,000).
- Tri-Star Industries Ltd. will upgrade its facility with new equipment and digital technologies to modernize workflow, generate efficiencies, and strengthen competitiveness in the domestic market ($375,000).
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 are receiving support 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
“Southwestern Nova Scotia is home to companies that are rooted in resilience and have long charted a course for success based on innovation and a commitment to progress. Companies like Novatec Braids and Tri-Star Industries are finding ways to adopt new technologies and reach new customers to stay competitive and remain an economic driver for the region.”
- Chris d’Entremont, Member of Parliament for Acadie—Annapolis
Quick facts
-
Novatec Braids Ltd. manufactures custom-designed cordage and specialty ropes under the brand name NovaBraid and serves industrial, marine, commercial fishing, power utility, military, recreational, and architectural sectors.
-
Tri-Star Industries Ltd. specializes in the custom design and production of ambulances, along with command vehicles and light/medium-duty fire rescue vehicles, which are sold in 45 countries.
-
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 is a time-limited, three-year initiative ending March 31, 2028, or until funds are fully committed.
-
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
- Novatec Braids Ltd.
- Tri-Star Industries Ltd.
Contacts
Jeremy Bellefeuille
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and
Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Jeremy.Bellefeuille@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