Nova Scotia Enhances Film Fund to Support Creative Industry, Propel Local Economy

The government is increasing support for the Nova Scotia film industry, significantly enhancing the province’s creative economy.

The Department is making an additional in-year investment of $38 million in the Nova Scotia Film and Television Production Incentive Fund, bringing the total investment for 2024-25 to $77 million.

This strategic industry investment has so far this year generated more than $160 million in production spending, supporting important economic contributors such as salaries, taxes and the sale of local goods and services. Local businesses across Nova Scotia, including hotels, restaurants and rental services, are projected to see substantial spin-off benefits.

“Film and television projects are not only about telling stories. They are about creating high-value jobs, attracting international investment, and showcasing the distinct beauty of Nova Scotia,” said Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. “This additional funding is a testament to our commitment to nurturing an industry that significantly benefits local economies and puts our province on the world map.”

The number of productions filming in Nova Scotia has increased over the previous year to more than 85 approved projects, indicating the appeal of the province’s locations and quality of local talent and crew. The growth affirms that the investments in place to attract and support production, both local and international, are working.

This commitment also underscores the government's support for local film industry workers, providing them with meaningful opportunities to develop their technical and professional skills while working on quality projects at home. Through targeted investments like these, the Province aims to foster an inclusive and sustainable cultural sector.

Quotes:

“The importance of an internationally competitive and reliable funding program is critical to the health and long-term growth of the film and television sector in Nova Scotia. As a producer, I can attest to the importance of this funding to local filmmakers and have seen first-hand the economic impact this investment has had on communities all across the province.”
— Mike Volpe, film producer and board Chair, Screen Nova Scotia

Quick Facts:

• the film industry contributed about $140.7 million to Nova Scotia’s economy in 2023-24, with 83 approved projects
• to date in 2024-25, Nova Scotia has approved 88 productions

Additional Resources:

News release – More Funding for Film, Television Productions in Rural Nova Scotia: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/07/02/more-funding-film-television-productions-rural-nova-scotia

News release – Government Invests in Film Industry Growth: https://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20220308002

Nova Scotia Film and Television Production Incentive Fund: https://cch.novascotia.ca/film-and-television-production-incentive-fund