Administered by Government of Nova Scotia · Last verified: July 2026
This Nova Scotia credit rewards investors who buy equity in approved small and medium corporations doing innovative work in the province. Individuals get 35 percent of their eligible investment back (45 percent for oceans technology and life sciences), and corporate investors get 15 percent. Companies must register and get a certificate before accepting investments, which makes the shares eligible for the credit and helps them raise 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 Innovation Equity Tax Credit is generally open to incorporated businesses, in Nova Scotia, in Technology & Software, with up to 100 employees, under 10 years old, that carry out research and development. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is Investors receive 35% (45% for oceans tech and life sciences) for individuals, or 15% for corporations, of the eligible investment. 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. Review the Innovation Equity Tax Credit Guidelines 2. Apply to the Department of Finance and Treasury Board for a Certificate of Registration before accepting investments 3. After the share issue, apply for tax credit certificates on behalf of investors
Apply for credit certificates within 6 months of certificate expiry.