October 5, 2023 · Dartmouth, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Atlantic Canada's bountiful agriculture industry is the backbone of many communities and businesses throughout the region, and an important contributor of international exports. The Government of Canada is investing to help Nova Scotia apple growers produce cider as a sustainable, value-added product, further strengthening the region's retail and tourism offerings.
Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced a non-repayable contribution of $128,934 to the Nova Scotia Cider Association (NSCA). This investment, through ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund, will help the organization expand events, develop products, and promote ciders and cider makers in Nova Scotia.
The NSCA will improve upon past successful promotional pilot projects and events like the Nova Scotia Cider Route and Ciders and Sliders, bringing growers, producers, locals and visitors together to learn about and enjoy Nova Scotian ciders. The NSCA will begin development of a digital mobile app, providing visitors easy access to information about Nova Scotia ciders and cideries. The NSCA will also explore additional product development and community partnerships, with the potential to collaborate on more annual events. These initiatives will raise awareness of Nova Scotia ciders, create new tourism opportunities, and help local growers diversify their products and services.
Through projects like this one, the Government of Canada is supporting a vibrant and diverse economy in Atlantic Canada's rural communities.
