Investing in local organizations and businesses is driving economic growth in official language minority communities
Bilingualism is at the heart of Canadian identity and a great source of pride from coast to coast to coast. Official language minority communities (OLMCs) contribute significantly to the economic vitality of Canada. Acadian and francophone businesses, entrepreneurs and local organizations help create jobs, strengthen local economies and generate new opportunities.
That is why, on the International Day of La Francophonie, the Government of Canada is recognizing these contributions and reaffirming its commitment to supporting the continued economic development of the Acadian and Francophone community in Atlantic Canada.
Today, Chris d'Entremont, Member of Parliament for Acadie-Annapolis, announced a federal investment of $708,900 to support le Conseil de développement économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse (CDÉNÉ). The funding will help the Francophone economic development organization strengthen its capacity, expand economic opportunities and contribute to the continued growth of the communities it serves.
Through this investment, CDÉNÉ will provide businesses with practical, hands-on services including business planning, mentorship, training, and guidance on adopting new tools such as AI, all tailored to meet the needs of business owners in Nova Scotia's official language minority communities. This support will help strengthen their operations, enhance their competitiveness, and create new opportunities for long-term growth and stability.
Canada's linguistic duality is a defining part of our national identity. By supporting projects that help businesses and organizations grow and thrive, the Government of Canada is helping strengthen the vitality and long-term economic development of official language minority communities.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
