Boat Builders Receive Funding to Open Global Markets
A list of the companies that received funding follows this release.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau announced today, Oct. 13, $155,002 in funding to help Nova Scotia's boat building industry open new global markets.
Financial assistance is being provided to existing export-ready boat builders who are taking immediate action in developing export markets. Funding will allow companies to participate in market research, marketing activities and the development of marketing materials. A number of the companies have used the funding to attend boat shows in the province and Europe.
"The long-term viability of boat building is important to our rural communities and the province's economy," said Mr. Belliveau. "Nova Scotia has a global reputation for boat building, which is based on a strong history. This funding assists in making a strong future for the industry."
Boat building is a traditional industry and is a significant source of employment in rural coastal communities. More than 45 companies employ 650 people directly in the industry, with an estimated 480 people employed indirectly throughout the province.
The funds are provided through the Community Development Trust Fund, a $34.9 million program established in 2008 by the federal government to help communities and sectors experiencing economic challenges.
The investment is part of $1 million in cost-shared boat building funding over two years previously announced from the Community Development Trust Fund.
The priorities of the Community Development Trust Fund are to enhance sustainable prosperity; diversify economic and trade opportunities; improve productivity, innovation and training; assist communities with transition planning and help workers facing adjustment challenges. More information on the Community Development Trust of Nova Scotia is available at www.gov.ns.ca/econ/cdtrust .
Companies that have received funding are:
- ABCO Industries Ltd., Lunenburg
- A.F. Theriault and Son Ltd., Meteghan River, Digby County
- Covey Island Boatworks, Lunenburg
- D'Eon Boatbuilders, Middle West Pubnico, Yarmouth County
- Goreham's Marine 2000 Inc., Woods Harbour, Shelburne County
- The Dory Shop, Lunenburg
- LeBlanc Brothers Boat, Lower Wedgeport, Yarmouth County
- Lutwick’s Boatbuiling, Mahone Bay
- Norseboat Ltd., Lunenburg,
- Nova Trawler Company, Shelburne
- Rosborough Boats, Beechville, Halifax Regional Municipality
- Sauer Boatbuilding and Maintenance Ltd., West Bay, Inverness County
- Southwest Fiberglass Products Ltd., Church Point, Digby County
- Wedgeport Boats Ltd., Wedgeport, Yarmouth County
- Yachtsmiths International Inc., Dartmouth, Halifax Regional Municipality