ACOA — Business Information Services ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Atlantic Canada - Businesses located in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador - For-profit corporations and sole proprietorships - Businesses seeking to enter new markets or expand operations - Enterprises requiring support with regulatory and government program navigation ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Structure: Non-repayable contribution - Funding Model: Cost-shared arrangement (government covers a portion of consulting costs) - Service Delivery: Bilingual expert staff provided at no direct charge or reduced cost - Market Research: Customized research packages available as part of service offering - No Matching Requirement Specified: Government absorbs consulting service costs ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Government program and service navigation assistance - Regulatory compliance and permits guidance - Taxation advice and support - Import and export consultation - International trade documentation and procedures - Financing options research and recommendations - Customized market research packages - Business development planning related to market entry ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Business must be located and operating in Atlantic Canada (eligible provinces only) - Services delivered by bilingual ACOA staff (English and French capability) - Businesses must engage proactively with assigned consultants - Market research packages tailored to specific business needs and goals - Ongoing advisory relationship expected for maximum benefit - Services focus on government program awareness and regulatory compliance - No specified timeline, but engagement should align with business planning cycles