By John DeMings
FOR THE SOU’WESTER
Transcontinental Media
Nova Scotia’s boatbuilders have received a financial boost to support competitiveness in the global market and export sales.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau has announced $371,289 in funding to help 21 Nova Scotia boatbuilding companies and industry associations improve their marketing and promotion efforts.
Two of the companies benefiting are A. F. Theriault and Sons of Meteghan River, and Southwest Fibreglass Products of Church Point.
The investment is part of the federal $34.9-million Community Development Trust Fund to help communities, industry and workers hard hit by economic challenges. The funding was given through the Boat Builders' Marketing Assistance Program.
Tim Edwards, executive director of the Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association, said in a news release that marketing to potential boat buyers is essential in today’s tough economy.
“New export sales bring new money into the province and means boatbuilders can keep their skilled workforce employed or hire additional people,” he said.
Boatbuilding companies that received funding are export-ready and have export marketing experience, or are recognized by boat building industry associations.
