Nova Scotia Connect2 Program: How to Apply

By GrantHub Research Team · · Lire en français

Nova Scotia Connect2 Program: How to Apply

If you want to fund active transportation or shared mobility projects in Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Connect2 Program can help your community test, plan, and build safer ways for people to get around. The program offers non-repayable funding covering up to 75% of eligible project costs. Support is available for both permanent and temporary infrastructure projects.

This guide explains who can apply. It also covers what projects qualify and how the application process works. These details will help you decide if Connect2 is a good fit before you start an application.


What Is the Nova Scotia Connect2 Program?

The Connect2 Program is a Government of Nova Scotia initiative that supports active transportation, shared mobility, and community engagement projects across the province. The program is delivered by the Department of Energy and Mines and is currently open for applications.

Funding Amounts by Project Stream

Connect2 offers non-repayable funding (a grant) with limits based on project type:

  • Active Transportation Infrastructure & Design: up to $100,000 per project
  • Shared Mobility projects: up to $75,000 per project
  • Capacity Building and Community Engagement: up to $50,000 per project
  • Maximum support: 75% of total eligible project costs

Your organization must cover at least 25% of project costs using other funding sources.


Who Is Eligible to Apply?

The Nova Scotia Connect2 Program is not a typical small business grant. It mainly supports public and community-focused organizations.

Eligible applicants include:

  • Registered non-profit societies or cooperatives in good standing
  • Federally incorporated non-profit organizations
  • Nova Scotian Mi’kmaw Bands
  • Municipalities
  • Post-secondary education institutions
  • Community groups
  • Equity-seeking communities and organizations

For-profit businesses are usually not eligible unless they partner with an eligible group.


What Types of Projects Are Eligible?

Connect2 supports projects that help people move around their communities in better ways.

Eligible activities include:

  • Designing or building active transportation infrastructure
  • Creating temporary bike lanes or pilot projects to test new ideas
  • Developing minimum bike grid infrastructure or network plans
  • Running shared mobility pilots, such as community transportation options
  • Doing feasibility studies and engineering work
  • Holding community engagement and capacity-building activities

The program welcomes temporary or pilot projects. This makes it useful for testing ideas before building permanent infrastructure.


How to Apply for the Nova Scotia Connect2 Program

The application process is managed through the Province of Nova Scotia.

Step-by-Step Application Process

  1. Check your eligibility
    Make sure your organization type and project activities match program rules.

  2. Define your project and budget
    Your application must show:

    • The total project cost
    • The amount requested (up to 75%)
    • Other funding sources for the remaining costs
  3. Prepare supporting documents
    You may need to include design plans, community engagement strategies, or feasibility work, depending on your project.

  4. Submit your application through the provincial portal
    Application details and forms are on the official Connect2 program page.

  5. Watch for intake deadlines
    Deadlines can change. Always check the latest dates before submitting.

If you want to compare Connect2 with other Nova Scotia funding options, tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and project type.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Assuming Connect2 is a loan
    Connect2 funding is non-repayable. You do not need to pay the money back.

  2. Applying as an ineligible organization
    For-profit businesses without an eligible partner cannot apply.

  3. Requesting more than 75% of project costs
    Applications that ask for too much funding are usually rejected.

  4. Submitting an unclear project plan
    Vague project descriptions or missing budgets weaken your application.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Nova Scotia Connect2 Program repayable or non-repayable?
Connect2 provides non-repayable funding (a grant). You do not have to pay the money back.

Q: How much funding can you receive from Connect2?
Funding ranges from $50,000 to $100,000. The program covers up to 75% of eligible costs.

Q: Can Connect2 be used for temporary bike lanes or pilot projects?
Yes. Temporary installations and pilot projects are eligible and encouraged.

Q: Who can apply for the Connect2 Program?
Eligible applicants include non-profits, municipalities, Mi’kmaw Bands, post-secondary schools, and community organizations.

Q: Can Connect2 funding be stacked with other grants?
Yes, as long as all government funding together does not exceed 75% of total project costs and you list all sources.


Tips for a Strong Application

  • Start early. Give yourself enough time to gather documents and confirm partners.
  • Be clear and specific. Describe your project goals, timeline, and budget in detail.
  • Show community support. Letters or evidence of local engagement can strengthen your case.
  • Double-check eligibility. Make sure your organization and project both qualify.

See Also

  • Repayable vs Non-Repayable Business Funding in Canada: Program Examples Explained
  • What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?
  • Co-op Student Hiring Incentives in Nova Scotia: Is It Right for Your Business?

Next Steps

If you plan to apply for the Nova Scotia Connect2 Program, start by checking your eligibility and planning your project’s funding mix. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and funding programs across Canada—including provincial and community-focused options—so you can see what other funding may support your organization’s goals.

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