Applications are now open for the second 2026 cohort of Invest Nova Scotia's Accelerate program, which provides funding and support to help Nova Scotia startups prepare for investment and grow their businesses.

The milestone-based program now offers two streams aimed at companies at different stages of development.

The Growth Stream is designed for technology startups that are already in the market and are ready to increase revenue, expand market share and strengthen commercial traction. Invest Nova Scotia said the stream is particularly suited to companies using artificial intelligence and advanced software.

The Development Stream targets earlier-stage ventures developing products for complex, regulated or hardware-intensive markets, including deep-tech companies that are still refining product-market fit.

Successful applicants can receive non-dilutive grants of $30,000. Up to $15,000 of the funding may be used for founder salaries. Participants also receive mentorship, workshops and access to business resources.

Applications close July 8.

To qualify, applicants must be Nova Scotia-registered businesses with most of their staff and senior leadership living in the province. The company must be at least 51 percent owned by Nova Scotians who will work at least 35 hours a week on the company during the program.

Invest Nova Scotia said interested companies can contact Kaitlin Webb for more information about the program.

Information and application details can be found here.