If you run a creative business or arts group in Nova Scotia and want to reach markets outside the province, the Nova Scotia Creative Industries Fund can help cover some of your costs. This program supports export-focused projects in sectors like music, design, publishing, and visual arts. Funding is repayable and can cover up to half of your eligible project costs.
The Creative Industries Fund (CIF) is managed by the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage. Its main goal is to help creative businesses and non-profits build steady export activity and reach new markets outside Nova Scotia.
You may qualify if your organization meets all of these requirements:
Non-profit arts organizations can apply if they are registered and active in an eligible sector.
You must cover the rest of your project costs from other sources and repay the contribution according to the program’s rules.
Eligible costs are usually those that help you build export capacity. These might include:
Show how each budget item helps you reach new markets. The program reviews each expense during your application.
Applying to the Nova Scotia Creative Industries Fund takes preparation. Here’s how you can get started and improve your chances of success.
Check that your project supports export activity or global market growth. Projects that only target local markets are unlikely to be approved.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you see if this program—and others—fit your business or organization.
You will need:
Be clear and specific. The review team wants to see how your project will help you grow outside Nova Scotia.
Applications that are late or missing information will not be reviewed.
Applications are judged on sector fit, export potential, and financial strength. If you are approved, you will get a contribution agreement. This outlines repayment terms and reporting requirements.
The fund is for export growth. Make sure your project has a clear plan to reach markets outside Nova Scotia.
Show exactly how the funding will be used. Prove that CIF support stays within the 50% limit.
This program is not a non-repayable grant. You need a plan to repay the funding as required.
If your organization is not registered with the Registry of Joint Stock Companies, your application will not be accepted.
Q: What is the Creative Industries Fund in Nova Scotia?
It is a provincial program that offers repayable funding to creative businesses and non-profits aiming to grow export markets and global competitiveness.
Q: How much funding can I receive from the Creative Industries Fund?
You can receive up to $30,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs.
Q: Is the Creative Industries Fund repayable?
Yes. Funding is provided as a repayable contribution, so repayment is required under the agreement’s terms.
Q: Who can apply for the Creative Industries Fund?
Registered Nova Scotia businesses and non-profits working in eligible creative sectors can apply.
Q: When is the deadline to apply?
Check the official program page for the latest deadline. Deadlines can change.
The Nova Scotia Creative Industries Fund can help you finance export growth, but it is often just one of several programs you may be eligible for. GrantHub tracks hundreds of grants and funding programs across Canada—including creative, arts, and export-focused options—so you can see which ones match your business and how they can fit together.
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