The Productivity and Innovation Voucher Program is designed for businesses like yours to access valuable expertise from post-secondary institutions. This program offers vouchers up to $15,000 for new projects and up to $25,000 for building on previous work. These funds can help you improve productivity, develop new products or services, and grow your business.

What You Get:

• Tier 1: Up to $15,000 for new projects
• Tier 2: Up to $25,000 for ongoing projects

Benefits:

• Access to expert research and resources
• Enhanced productivity and competitiveness
• Support for innovation and development

This program is easier to qualify for than many other financing options, and being approved can significantly boost your business's growth and innovation capabilities.

Type of Financing: Grant

Repayment Terms:

• No repayment required.
• No interest rates applicable.

Eligible Expenses:

• Costs associated with accessing expertise from post-secondary institutions.
• Expenses for improving productivity.
• Development costs for new products, services, or processes.

Ineligible Expenses:

• General operational costs.
• Salaries for existing staff.
• Marketing and advertising expenses.

Fees:

• No application or processing fees.

This program offers your business vouchers worth up to $25,000. You can use this money to access expertise from local universities and colleges.

Here’s how it works:

• Tier 1 Vouchers: Up to $15,000 for businesses new to the program or with a new project.
• Tier 2 Vouchers: Up to $25,000 to build on work already done with a Tier 1 Voucher.

You can use these vouchers to improve productivity, develop new products, services, or processes, and grow your business.

Key Points:

• You can get up to two Tier 1 Vouchers.
• The money can only be used with approved service providers.
• All projects must be completed and claims submitted by March 15, 2024.

This program is a great way to tap into local expertise and take your business to the next level.

1. Register for an Invest Nova Scotia Customer Number:

• If you do not have a Customer Number, contact your Regional Business Development Advisor to request one.

2. Select a Service Provider:

• Choose from the list of eligible service providers such as Acadia University, Dalhousie University, or Saint Mary’s University.

3. Prepare Documentation:

• Gather the necessary documents for your application:
  • Business Plan
  • Financial Statements
  • Project Proposal
  • Proof of Business Registration
  • Previous Tier 1 Voucher documentation (if applying for Tier 2)

4. Complete Two-Step Identity Verification:

• Enter your Invest Nova Scotia Customer Number and associated email address.
• Use the one-time code sent to your email to verify your identity.

5. Fill Out the Online Application Form:

• Access the form through the Invest Nova Scotia website.
• Provide detailed information about your project and how it will improve productivity or develop a new product, service, or process.

6. Submit the Application:

• Ensure all required fields are completed and documents are attached.
• Submit the application before the deadline.

7. Await Review and Approval:

• The application will be reviewed by Invest Nova Scotia.
• You may be contacted for additional information or clarification.

8. Receive Voucher and Begin Project:

• Upon approval, receive your voucher.
• Start your project with the selected service provider.

9. Complete Project and Submit Claims:

• Finish the project by the specified deadline.
• Submit all claims and final reports before March 15, 2024.