ACOA Business Development Program (BDP)
Interest-free repayable contributions covering up to 50% of project costs for PEI SMEs to start up, expand, or modernize.
About this program
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's Business Development Program is the broadest federal funding mechanism for PEI SMEs. It provides interest-free repayable contributions (not grants) for activities including business start-ups, modernizations, expansions, hiring experts to improve productivity, business plan development, and marketing/skills development. Atlantic firms can typically receive up to 50% of project costs. Decisions are typically made within 75 business days of complete application. ACOA approves approximately 1,260 projects per year across Atlantic Canada.
Eligibility
Incorporated for-profit SMEs located in and benefiting Atlantic Canada (NS, NB, PEI, NL), particularly in sectors aligned with ACOA priorities including cybersecurity, biosciences, aerospace/defence, ocean technology, AI, advanced manufacturing, tourism, or rural diversification.
Requirements
- Incorporated for-profit SME in Atlantic Canada
- Operating in or benefiting Atlantic Canada
- Sector aligned with ACOA priorities