Federal investment helps Devour! Studios plate up a fresh way to “seafood”
News release
New seafood academy provides hands-on ways to experience Nova Scotia cuisine, culture and communities
August 11, 2026 · Wolfville, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Tourism is a key driver of Canada’s economy, supporting businesses, creating jobs, and drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. In Nova Scotia, the Government of Canada is investing in new experiences to create more reasons to visit, stay longer and connect with the province’s cultures.
Today, the Honourable Kody Blois, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants, announced federal support to Devour! Studios to support the development and delivery of the Nova Scotia Seafood Academy ($135,000).
This contribution has helped Devour! Studios develop and pilot the Nova Scotia Seafood Academy’s three-day hands-on culinary experience in Wolfville. Curious home chefs and culinary travellers from across North America can learn about Nova Scotia seafood preparation, sustainable sourcing, local products, and the stories behind the province’s seafood sector. With the pilot program already underway, the project is creating new experiences that can be packaged with local accommodations, restaurants and other businesses.
Today’s announcement reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to helping communities build on their tourism and cultural assets to create new economic opportunities.
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.
Quotes
“Atlantic Canada’s tourism sector is powered by authentic experiences that connect visitors with our communities, cultures and local products. By supporting Devour! Studios as it pilots the Nova Scotia Seafood Academy, we’re helping create new reasons for people to visit Nova Scotia, while supporting local businesses and the people who make this region such a remarkable place.”
- 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
“From our world-class seafood to the creativity of our chefs and producers, Nova Scotia has a fantastic story to share with guests from across Canada and around the world. This investment is helping Devour! Studios turn that story into an unforgettable experience that brings more visitors to the Annapolis Valley and connects them with the people, businesses and cultures that make the region so vibrant.”
- The Honourable Kody Blois, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants
“The Nova Scotia Seafood Academy celebrates our province’s incredible seafood while helping people learn lifelong culinary skills. Building on the success Devour! The Food Film Fest, the Studio is a culinary and cultural hub with year-round cooking courses, musical events and more that will continue to put Nova Scotia on the map as a culinary and cultural destination.”
- Michael Howell, Executive Director, Devour! Studios and Devour! The Food Film Fest.
Quick facts
-
The Nova Scotia Seafood Academy pilot program (currently in year 2) is being delivered by Devour! Studios, a non-profit organization and federally registered charity known for its annual Devour! The Food Film Fest, which has welcomed almost 100,000 attendees, served 75,000 meals, screened 750+ films and welcomed celebrities and notable chefs, including Anthony Bourdain, Phil Rosenthal, and Lidia Bastianich. In 2019, it generated nearly $1.9 million in economic activity for Nova Scotia and has transformed Nova Scotia into a premier food and film destination.
-
Devour! Studios' Centre for Cultural and Culinary Innovation is a 24,000-square-foot, multi-purpose facility featuring a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen, event hall, and performance venue designed to support culinary, cultural, and community programming.
-
The Seafood Academy is expected to draw up to 500 visitors, with many expected to stay two to three nights and supporting local accommodations, restaurants and businesses.
-
The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
Associated links
Contacts
Jeanne Joannie Fogue Mgamgne
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
joannie.fogue@justice.gc.ca
Media Relations
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Natasha Compton
Devour! Studio
natasha.compton@becuriouspr.com
Stay connected
Follow ACOA on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram