Community Business Development Corporations are at the heart of growing rural Atlantic Canadian economies
Small and medium-sized businesses in rural communities play a vital role in Canada's economy. The Government of Canada is helping entrepreneurs in rural regions grow their skills and their business, so everyone can succeed.
Today, the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) announced an investment of $12.6 million in core funding to the network of 41 Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) in Atlantic Canada, along with an additional $1.5 million that will better support under-recognized groups. This additional investment will give entrepreneurs better access to business capital, and improving rural economic vitality and sustainability.
Through the Community Futures Program, these two investments will help CBDCs provide crucial financial support, skills training, expert knowledge, counselling services and tailored on-the-ground programs to the rural businesses, organizations and communities they serve. This helps build vibrant local economies and creates jobs.
