September 2, 2026 · Dartmouth, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
As global trade pressures persist, Canada's new government is protecting Canadian workers and businesses, defending industries harmed by unjustified U.S. tariffs, and helping Canadian producers compete with U.S. products in the Canadian market.
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced federal investments totaling more than $14.1 million to support businesses in Nova Scotia. These investments are among the first being announced as Canada rolls out recently enhanced measures to deliver fast, simple, and agile support to workers and businesses affected by U.S. tariffs.
Minister Fraser made the announcement at Ace Machining Ltd. in Dartmouth, alongside Darren Fisher, Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour. Ace Machining received over $400,000 to purchase and install an automated CNC milling station. The new machine will increase productivity and efficiency, help the company meet growing demand and expand in the Canadian market, while strengthening its position as a premium supplier.
Today's announcement includes investments for 26 additional businesses and organizations in Nova Scotia. These investments, through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), support businesses as they address tariff-related pressures while pursuing long-term growth opportunities, helping strengthen productivity, supply chains, and market reach. For a full list of projects, please see the backgrounder.
Canada's new government recently announced an additional $1.5 billion for the RTRI as part of a broader $7.5 billion package of new and enhanced measures for Canadian workers and businesses affected by the unjustified U.S. tariffs. This additional investment will allow more businesses across Atlantic Canada to quickly access the help they need to adapt, invest, and pursue new opportunities at home and abroad.
Need help responding to tariffs? Businesses in Atlantic Canada can access the RTRI through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). The Agency will also work with businesses to understand their circumstances and connect them with other federal supports, ensuring there is no wrong door for businesses needing help.
