ACOA Business Information Services

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is here for you. Our Business Information Services team can help you figure out your next steps and find what you need to start or grow your business. Who we are Our one-stop information shop is free of charge and available in both official languages. We’re ready to answer your business questions and guide you through the steps to take to make your great ideas a reality. From funding to planning, from research to regulations, if there’s something you need to run your business, look no further! What we do Business support is what we know. We can give you information on: business planning – get personalized advice no matter how far along you are. financing – learn about different funding options (loans, grants, wage subsidies, COVID-19 relief, etc.). government regulations – learn about taxes, permits, licences, and more to make sure you’re operating legally. imports and exports – find out how to move goods and services across the Canadian border. reliable market research information – access research on the topics you need: Demographics (e.g., age, household income, marital status, etc.) Potential competitors Suppliers and distributors Industry performance International market and industry data Financial benchmarking specific to your industry Consumer trends Import and export statistics

Business Navigators

Our Business Navigators can give you personalized and timely help with regulation and requirements, including registration, permit and licences. They can help free up your time so you can focus on your job: building a successful business. Nova Scotia’s business navigators help business owners with business needs such as:

Registering a business
Determining what permits and licenses are required to operate a business
Understanding applicable inspection requirements
Finding resources to assist with financing, taxes, staffing and other needs

Co-operatives Information Guide

Canadian co-operatives operate in a variety of economic sectors such as agriculture, food, social services, retail and wholesale, fishing, energy, recreational services, and financial (including insurance). This information is meant to help entrepreneurs navigate the world of co-operatives. For general information on business start-up, consult the website sections on starting and planning.

Government of Canada Business-E-business Security, Privacy, and Legal Requirements

There are several strategies that can help you reduce the risks you and your customers face when doing business online. Be aware of these risks and take steps to deal with them before they become problem including: Protecting your clients Security Privacy Privacy policy Credit and debit card handling Legal requirements for e-business

Government of Canada Business-Trademark

A trademark can protect a combination of words, sounds or designs used to distinguish your goods or services from those of others in the marketplace. Learn about, search or apply for registration.

Intellectual Property Office

Intellectual property is the legal right to ideas, inventions and creations in the industrial, scientific, literary and artistic fields. It also covers symbols, names, images, designs and models used in business. Without realizing it, your business may be creating IP assets that should be protected.

ISANS-Business Counselling

Your Business Counsellor provides one-on-one support before, during and after you open your business. Business counselling takes place at ISANS and continues at your place of business after start-up and during business growth. Your Business Counsellor helps you: Make informed decisions Identify available resources Build your professional networks Stay informed of business workshops and events Access free legal and/or accounting services if appropriate Create an action plan Connect with other business service providers, associations and organizations that can benefit you and your business Your Business Counsellor will also provide you with a copy of Connections – An Immigrant’s Guide to Starting a Business in Nova Scotia to help you understand business culture in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia Co-operatives

Find out how to register a cooperative and learn more about the requirements that you need to follow.

Provincial Government Laws

Every business operating in Nova Scotia must follow specific laws and regulations on when and how they operate. In fact, many factors such as your size, location, structure and industry will determine which laws apply to you. This website provides details on provincial regulations and how they may affect your business.

Rights Management Program

SOCAN administers and protects the performing and reproduction rights of more than 150,000 songwriters, music publishers, composers, and visual artists. We offer an integrated approach to rights management and compelling solutions for our rights holders’ reproduction and performing rights. Through reciprocal agreements with more than 100 copyright collectives in 214 countries, we collect and distribute royalties internationally for the use of copyrighted works, connecting millions of creators worldwide. SOCANs Rights Management includes Performing Rights and Reproduction Rights.