The voice of the Co-operative movement in Nova Scotia
The Council supports and promotes co-ops and credit unions by providing education, marketing and representation to government and industry. Our experienced business development officers are located across the province and ready to assist you with your next challenge!
What's New
The Co-operative Achievement Award
This award honours individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the cause and development of co-operative and mutual enterprises in Canada and internationally.
Coady’s Place in New Glasgow
On May 26, 2022, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, MP Sean Fraser and The Nova Scotia Co-operative Council announced 36 new affordable housing units in New Glasgow.
FarmWorks – Field to Fork to Future
FarmWorks Investment Co-operative Limited is making a difference in the year-round availability of food for Nova Scotians. Over 460 people have purchased $4,009,900 of shares in ten offers of FarmWorks’ tax advantageous Community Economic Development Investment Fund.
Impatient Readiness: The State of Social Finance in Canada 2021
This report is a testament to the depth and breadth of impact investing in Canada over the past decade. Social impact fund assets under management have increased substantially in recent years, nearing an estimated $1 billion1.
Canada’s Credit win seven 2020 Ipsos Financial Service Excellence Awards
“Canada’s credit unions have always prioritized their members and their communities. This is especially true this year, as many Canadians were faced with uncertainties from the pandemic” notes Martha Durdin, President & CEO, Canadian Credit Union Association.
Master’s, Graduate Diploma andCertificate in Co-operative andCredit Union Management
The International Centre for Co-operative Management in the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University offers Master’s level business programs designed to meet the growing demands of co-operative and credit union managers.
What We Do
New Business Start-ups
New Business Start-ups
Incorporation and assistance with formation of boards of directors, articles, by-laws and policies is our specialty. Let us help get your new co-operative off on the right track from day one!
Business Growth & Expansions
Business Growth & Expansions
Whether your needs are planning, evaluation or mentorship, the Nova Scotia Co-operative Council can help guide your co-operative to the next level.
Economic Analysis
Economic Analysis
Through research and feasibility assessments, our knowledgeable staff can help you determine if your idea can become a reality!
Business Finance
Business Finance
Through an exclusive partnership with credit unions, the Council works diligently to develop alternative financing solutions for entrepreneurs and co-operatives alike. Whether its debt or equity financing you require, we have an answer.
The Nova Scotia Co-operative Council also provides turnkey Community Economic Development Investment Fund (CEDIF) solutions. Contact us today to learn more or view our current initiatives!
Support
The Council offers various other services and supports to our members, such as:
- Connection to a vibrant network of co-operatives and credit unions
- Access to co-operative resources
- Government advocacy
- Marketing and promotion through our website and social media
- Annual networking events
- Governance training
- Conflict resolution
Programs
Renewable Energy
We see the development of renewable energy as one of Nova Scotia’s greatest opportunities.
Nova Scotia has an abundance of natural resources that can bring economic and environmental sustainability to the province by producing renewable energy for consumption and export. This opportunity is pivotal in that it has the potential to improve the economy, environment and the health of Nova Scotians.
Forestry Contractor Relief Program
Supporting the Forestry Sector in Our Communities With Financial Relief
The Forestry Contractors Relief Program was created to provide financial relief to eligible forestry contractors affected by the closure of the Northern Pulp mill. The program will offer short-term repayable financing to help contractors cover loan payments as they adjust to changes in the sector.