Administered by Government of Nova Scotia · Last verified: July 2026
Nova Scotia businesses can attract local investment by offering investors a 35% provincial tax credit on their shares. Powerful tool for raising early-stage capital.
You claim this on your tax return, so the money comes back as a lower tax bill or a refund after you file. If you missed it in a past year, you can often still recover it by adjusting a prior return.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityNova Scotia Equity Tax Credit is generally open to incorporated businesses, in Nova Scotia, with up to 50 employees. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is 35% credit to investors (up to $17,500 per investor). The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
Claimed on a return, so a missed year can usually be recovered by amending. How far back depends on whether you file personally or as a corporation; confirm the eligible years with your accountant.
1. Apply to NS Department of Finance for registration 2. Issue eligible shares to Nova Scotia investors 3. Provide investors with tax credit certificates 4. File annual reports with the province
Corporation must be approved before issuing eligible shares; program available for eligible investments made before March 2, 2029.
3.5% to 30% of eligible R&D costs
TAX CREDIT25% to 50% of NS labour costs
TAX CREDITInvestors receive 35% (45% for oceans tech and life sciences) for individuals, or 15% for corporations, of the eligible investment