Nova Scotia is a modestly-sized, vibrant province located on Canada’s east coast. Its picturesque landscapes and breathtaking ocean vistas offer serenity and ample opportunities for business and pleasure. When in this province, one is never more than 60 kilometers removed from the ocean. While mainly English-speaking, Nova Scotia has a strong Acadian and Francophone presence as witnessed in the well-rooted and well-established communities throughout the province. The original residents of this Maritime province, also known as MI’KMA’KI Land of the Mi’kmaq, were North American First Nations Peoples, the Mi’kmaq. We are also home to a significant Afro-Nova Scotian population, in addition to possessing a rich Celtic heritage with immigrants having arrived from Scotland and Ireland. Our diversity is a source of pride for Nova Scotians. Halifax, the provincial capital, is the largest and busiest city on Canada’s east coast. Within the province, rural and smaller urban centers offer numerous opportunities for economic development.

The main industry sectors in Nova Scotia have traditionally aligned with our natural resources such as the fisheries, seafood processing, agriculture, forestry, and mining. Currently, the most significant sectors are the aerospace industry, the finance sector, healthcare services, tourism, information technology, and shipbuilding. In addition to roadways, there are several means of travelling to and from Nova Scotia. Robert Stanfield International Airport is located approximately 30 minutes from Halifax. Via waterways, Halifax and Sydney represent the two major ports of landing, welcoming cruise ships from more than 20 cruise line companies. We are also connected via the ocean by ferry services from Yarmouth to the United States; from Digby to St. John, N.B.; from Pictou to Prince Edward Island; and, from North Sydney to Newfoundland and Labrador. Railways also provide passenger and commercial transportation from Halifax, via Truro, continuing to New Brunswick and across Canada. Nova Scotia has a favourable reputation for the quality of education with its ten universities and community college system comprised of a network of province-wide campuses. Included in these post-secondary institutions is Université Sainte-Anne which offers college and university programs in French. Nova Scotian residents and visitors benefit from our rich natural resources which offer an abundance of opportunities for physical activity and well-being. We have a quality of life which is second to none, allowing individuals to strike a balance in their personal, family, and professional lives. Our assets make Nova Scotia a destination of choice for businesses, employees, families, and students.