ACOA helps NS companies modernize, scale, and compete
From the Springboard Content Lab and ACOA
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is investing nearly $1.3 million in three NS companies modernize, adopt new technologies and access new global markets. Delivered through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, the funding strengthens supply chains, boosts productivity, and positions Atlantic Canadian firms to compete internationally in a rapidly shifting global economy.
Key Takeaways
- Nearly $1.3 million in federal funding is supporting three innovative Dartmouth companies
- Investments focus on automation, advanced manufacturing, and clean technology
- Companies are expanding into global markets and strengthening supply chains
- Funding is part of ACOA’s $80M Atlantic allocation under a national $1B initiative
- Reinforces Atlantic Canada’s role in innovation, resilience, and export growth
“When we invest in the productivity of Atlantic Canadian businesses, we are sharpening Canada’s competitive edge. The Regional Tariff Response Initiative provides the tools local companies need to modernize their operations and build the strength required to thrive in a changing global marketplace.”
Sean Fraser, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Companies driving innovation
The funding supports three companies that are advancing innovation across manufacturing, sensing technologies, and clean energy:
- Outdoor-Fit Exercise Systems Inc.
Founded in 2003, Outdoor-Fit-Exercise Systems designs and manufactures outdoor exercise equipment that delivers the same biomechanical quality as top indoor gym machine. The funding will expand and upgrade its manufacturing facility with new automation equipment and support process improvements to support product development and market diversification. ($770,250). - Reftek Systems Inc.
Founded in 1975, Reftek Systems Inc. provides decades of experience design and supporting seismic monitoring systems for every part of the world, and every environmental challenges. The support will Establishing a specialized sensor lab to enhance supply chain reliability and technical capabilities. ($267,500) - Aurea Technologies Inc.
The funding will lower production costs for its Shine 2.0 turbine and to support prototyping, compliance testing, and cybersecurity. Advancing its portable wind turbine technology (Shine 2.0), including prototyping, cybersecurity, and global market development. ($250,180)
Together, these investments will increase productivity, lower costs, and enable these firms to scale both domestically and internationally
Building resilient supply chains and new market opportunities
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative is a $1 billion national program, with $80 million allocated to Atlantic Canada, aimed at helping businesses respond to global trade uncertainty.
By supporting automation, digital adoption, and process improvements, the initiative helps companies:
- Strengthen supply chains
- Reduce production costs
- Diversify export markets
- Build long-term resilience
This is particularly important as Atlantic Canadian firms navigate shifting tariffs, geopolitical uncertainty, and increasing global competition.
Why this matters for Atlantic Canada
This investment highlights a critical trend: Atlantic Canada is scaling innovation through targeted support for SMEs.
For Springboard’s network of post-secondary institutions, this creates clear opportunities to:
- Collaborate with industry on applied research and commercialization
- Support workforce development in advanced manufacturing and clean tech
- Accelerate dual-use and export-ready technologies
Companies like Aurea Technologies (clean energy) and Reftek Systems (advanced sensing) align strongly with regional strengths in ocean tech, defence, and sustainable innovation—key areas where academia-industry collaboration can drive impact.
FAQs
What is the Regional Tariff Response Initiative?
It is a $1 billion federal program designed to help Canadian businesses adapt to global trade pressures, strengthen productivity, and expand into new markets.
How much funding is going to Atlantic Canada?
ACOA is delivering $80 million in Atlantic Canada through this initiative to support SMEs.
Which companies received funding in Dartmouth?
Outdoor-Fit Exercise Systems, Reftek Systems, and Aurea Technologies are the three recipients.
What types of projects are being supported?
Projects include automation upgrades, new lab development, clean energy innovation, and global market expansion.
How does this benefit the regional economy?
The investment boosts productivity, strengthens supply chains, supports exports, and helps position Atlantic Canada as a leader in innovation.
About Springboard Atlantic
Springboard Atlantic is a network of 19 post-secondary institutions across Atlantic Canada, connecting researchers with industry to solve real-world challenges. Through collaboration, Springboard supports innovation, commercialization, and economic growth across key sectors including clean technology, ocean innovation, and advanced manufacturing.