There are a number of great reasons to do business in Antigonish. The area features very high education levels and higher incomes compared to provincial averages. Businesses here benefit from the large market area and availability of quality human resources. Economic stability is provided by the educational and health services.
If you are thinking of starting a new business, here are a number of organizations that may be helpful:
Antigonish Regional Development
The Antigonish Regional Development Authority is a key organization in economic development in Antigonish and is a useful first point of contact for entrepreneurs seeking information or advice. They coordinate and integrate the work of other local agencies and service providers in order to achieve specific objectives at the community level. They work closely with government support groups and financing agencies and can make referrals to clients, help in business, planning, and facilitate application processes.
Community Business Resource Network
The Canada/Nova Scotia Business Service Centre has entered into partnerships to create ten Community Business Resource Sites throughout Nova Scotia. The resources available include free Internet access for business research and a selection of frequently used reference publications. The Antigonish County site is located at 20 St. Andrews Street, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, B2G 2H1, Phone: (902) 863-3330, Fax: (902) 863-4095.
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
ACOA provides financial assistance to businesses in manufacturing and processing, tourism, aquaculture, innovation and technology as well as non-commercial services which are not personal in nature. The Area Account Manager for Antigonish County is Chris Storseth. Phone: (902)867-6075. E-mail: chris.storseth@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Northern Opportunities for Business Limited (NOBL)
NOBL is a flexible term loan program for small and medium-sized businesses, offering up to $125,000 in financing for business start-ups, expansions and other business purposes. They also provide equity loans for young entrepreneurs and administer the Self Employment Benefit (SEB) program.
Nova Scotia Economic Development - Community and Rural Development
The Rural Development branch helps communities and business organizations capitalize on strengths and opportunities to grow the rural economy. Staff can provide information on how to access provincial economic development programs and services.
Access Nova Scotia is a provincial government initiative through Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations designed to improve access to government information, programs and services. Access Centres provide information on provincial permits, approvals and licenses for businesses.
Antigonish Chamber of Commerce
The Antigonish Chamber of Commerce actively develops and lobbies business policy positions and organizes special events that provide members with networking opportunities and education.
Black Business Initiative (BBI)
The BBI is a province-wide business development initiative designed to support the development of business and job opportunities among African-Canadian Nova Scotians.
Enterprise Development Centre - St. Francis Xavier University
The Enterprise Development Centre is one of five University Business Development Centres in the province. Its mandate is to promote entrepreneurial development in Antigonish, Pictou, and Guysborough Counties. They provide support to new entrepreneurs and existing business owners. This is achieved through individual counseling sessions and the Ideas and Entrepreneurship course. They are also able to match entrepreneurs with the resources of the community.
