Community Futures
The Community Futures program helps to create jobs in rural communities across Atlantic Canada. This is done through the work of over 40 Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) throughout Atlantic Canada.
St. John’s Pedestrian Mall, N.L.
CBDCs are non-profit organizations that work to build a stronger economy by fuelling business growth and boosting private-sector employment in rural areas.
How CBDCs help
CBDCs help launch small businesses and expand and modernize existing ones. Through the CBDCs, you can seek:
- financial help in the form of loans, loan guarantees and equity financing
- business counselling and advice to help you succeed
- entrepreneurship development and training to address skills gaps
- technical help in the form of guidance and coaching
CBDC Success Stories
ACOA supports CBDCs and their respective regional networks located within rural Atlantic Canada. Below are some great examples of businesses that have been helped by local CBDCs throughout the Atlantic region.
Success Stories
Acadian Vibes and Bites: Glamping retreat combines a new music series, local cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere
White "glamping" domes dot the coastline like pearls at the end of chemin des Huîtres in Haut-Shippagan on the Acadian Peninsula. Just like the valuable gems created by the shellfish, Cielo Glamping is a hidden jewel in this part of the country. READ MOREBeer Daddy BBQ a smoking success after expansion
Corey Richard never dreamed that his love for southern barbecue would lead him down the successful entrepreneurial path he’s on today. READ MOREFrom DJ to 45 lawns mowed in a day: I-Care Landscapers celebrates 15 years in business
Rob Corporon was a self-employed DJ and lounge promoter for over a decade before his new side hustle in lawn care became his livelihood. READ MORE
For more success stories, visit the CBDC website Success Stories page.
How to apply
Visit cbdc.ca to find your nearest CBDC office, or call 1-888-303-2232 toll-free.
Contact us today!
Want to learn more? ACOA Business Information Services is your one-stop information shop. Call 1-888-576-4444 to discuss our programs and see if a CBDC is the right support for you.
Or contact us by email:
Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (Atlantic time)
Grants and Contributions Awarded
Are you interested in businesses and organizations that received ACOA funding? Consult the Open Government Portal to search past recipients of our programs.
Impact stories
A.F. Theriault produces diverse types of vessels designed and built in the predominantly francophone community of Meteghan River, Nova Scotia to serve Canada's unique, expansive coastline and our network of coastal marine communities.
In May 2022 Moncton-based Atlantic Ballet Atlantique Canada (ABAC) will celebrate its 20th anniversary. In just two short decades, the only professional ballet company in Atlantic Canada has toured original creations throughout Canada, the U.S. and Europe.
Fireworks Feast, part of the Inn at Bay Fortune and Inn at Fortune Bridge family of visitor destinations, was one of many popular summer experiences hit by the hard reality of a pandemic.
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