Nova Scotia’s boat building industry is marketing its world-class products internationally with some added support from the federal and provincial governments.
The Nova Scotia Boatbuilders’ Association is receiving $155,650 from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and $30,000 from Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture to undertake a major new marketing initiative.
“Our Government is proud to support a traditional maritime industry that has evolved to remain viable and competitive in international markets,” said Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of ACOA and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. “Because most boat builders are located in rural parts of the province, this kind of initiative can have a very positive impact on regions such as south west Nova Scotia.”
Nova Scotia’s boat building sector has diversified itself in recent years to make traditional fishing boats, custom pleasure craft, and commercial workboats for international markets and has developed a leading reputation for all three. This new marketing initiative will help member companies advertise their products, attend boat shows to market their products, and enhance the Association’s web site.
“The province recognizes that boat building is an important industry for Nova Scotia and we are pleased to partner with the Government of Canada and the Nova Scotia Boatbuilders’ Association to help them market their products”, said Sterling Belliveau, Nova Scotia Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
Ministers Ashfield and Belliveau cited the ongoing work of Team South West Nova Scotia (TSWNS) as an important vehicle for which to promote and develop sectors such as boatbuilding, resulting in job retention and economic growth for the area.
TSWNS, co-chaired by ACOA and the Province of Nova Scotia, will continue to identify strategic economic development opportunities for an area of the province that has experienced significant challenges.
