Access Nova Scotia

Access Nova Scotia provides answers to questions about doing business in Nova Scotia. Its service locations and online services provide the following: Information on planning, starting, operating and ending your business Research on existing businesses Registering your business Apply, pay for and renew permits and licenses Learn about provincial tax rates and regulations

Access NS-Registry of Joint Stock Companies

If you want to operate a business in Nova Scotia you must register it with the Registry of Joint Stock Companies, with three exceptions: Corporations or partnerships/businesses registered in New Brunswick Individuals or partners who use their own names, without a descriptive element or attachment, such as “and Associates” Farming or fishing partnerships The first step is searching and reserving a business name. Registration fees and procedures will vary depending on the type of business.

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

Government of Canada Business

Before starting your business consider if you want to be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation or co-operative. This site leads you through the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Irving Shipbuilding Inc. Online Supplier Registry

Register your business as a potential supplier of goods and services for the shipbuilding industry.

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.