Deadline: 31-Dec-2025
The Strategic Development Initiative (SDI) program supports heritage-focused organizations in Nova Scotia as they work to strengthen their role in preserving and celebrating local history and culture.
The program encourages collaboration among “partners-in-heritage” and is designed to help communities build on their existing strengths, assets, and cultural identity. Through innovative planning, skill development, and shared initiatives, SDI aims to ensure that the heritage sector remains active, sustainable, and relevant.
This program helps organizations expand their financial sustainability by supporting the development of new revenue sources and improving retail operations that highlight Nova Scotia–made arts, crafts, and cultural products. It also provides opportunities for heritage boards, museum staff, and volunteers to gain training in areas such as fundraising, strategic planning, business planning, tourism readiness, programming, and marketing. By helping organizations improve their leadership and operational capacity, the SDI program supports long-term growth and resilience.
Another key priority of the program is expanding public engagement with heritage. This may include developing new exhibits, strengthening interpretation and storytelling, or improving digital and online platforms. Projects that foster deeper cooperation across community groups, organizations, and municipalities are especially encouraged, recognizing the power of partnerships in preserving local heritage.
Funding is available for up to 75% of eligible project costs, with a maximum contribution of $10,000 per project. Applicants must cover the remaining portion through their own resources or other funding sources. Eligible applicants include archives, museums, municipal bodies, community organizations, and heritage associations, provided they are registered non-profit entities in good standing in Nova Scotia. Applications that involve collaboration between multiple organizations may be given preference.
Through the Strategic Development Initiative, heritage organizations can enhance their programming, strengthen community connections, increase sustainability, and ensure that the stories and cultural traditions of Nova Scotia continue to be shared with future generations.
For more information, visit Nova Scotia Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage.
