Ecosystem
Ecosystem
Pictou County offers a cost-effective gateway to Canadian innovation and talent. Within 90 minutes, businesses can access leading hubs in IT, ocean technology, and health, including COVE (Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship), a world-class marine innovation hub in Canada’s deepest harbour, while benefiting from connections to the International Network of Michelin Cities (INMC) Corridor of Incubators.
The county provides access to one of Canada’s highest concentrations of post-secondary institutions, supporting research, workforce development, and commercialization. Within three hours, colleges and universities such as Acadia University, Cape Breton University, Dalhousie University, St. Mary’s University and Université de Moncton produce a steady stream of STEM graduates.
With a reputation for collaboration and practical innovation, the county offers investors and innovators a unique blend of supportive partners, a skilled workforce, and proximity to major research institutions across Atlantic Canada.
Economic Development Partners
Invest Nova Scotia
Invest Nova Scotia is the business development agency of the Province of Nova Scotia. We help businesses start, scale, and succeed. Invest Nova Scotia leads efforts to attract global firms expanding into Nova Scotia, and we offer programs, incentives, and investment to ensure companies grow across the province. As part of this work, we focus on six priority sectors — defence and aerospace, energy and cleantech, natural resources, fisheries and agriculture, housing and construction, and the AI and digital economy.
Atlantic Canadian Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) works to create opportunities for economic growth in the region by helping businesses become more competitive, innovative and productive, by working with diverse communities to develop and diversify local economies, and by championing the strengths of Atlantic Canada.
Pictou County Chamber of Commerce
A non-profit organization managed by a volunteer Board of Directors, the Chamber is an advocate for business and for regional economic growth. As a member-based organization, the Chamber offers unique affinity benefits to its members, organizes education and training events, and undertakes special projects of value to business and the community.
Innovation Hub
IGNITE Atlantic
IGNITE Atlantic is a rural innovation hub focused on developing a vibrant ecosystem where entrepreneurs, communities, youth and industry professionals can work together to spark meaningful change and opportunity across rural Nova Scotia.
Post-Secondary Education
Nova Scotia Community College
Nova Scotia Community College is transforming our province. Through their network of 14 campuses, they provide inclusive and flexible access to education and the specialized, industry-driven training essential for today and tomorrow’s workforce.
St. Francis Xavier University
St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious universities, only a short drive from Pictou County. Founded in 1853, StFX provides an exceptional learning experience through outstanding teaching, hands-on research opportunities, and global exchange programs. With Canada’s most vibrant and inspiring residential campus, StFX fosters both academic excellence and personal growth, with community and social engagement at the heart of student life. StFX students are academically strong, highly engaged, and committed to making a positive impact on the world. Many alumni live, work, and prosper in Pictou County.
Growth Stories
Stories of Growth and Innovation
Discover what is happening with businesses and investment initiatives in our community.
Do you have land or a building that could be perfect for commercial use or development? The Pictou County Partnership is compiling an inventory of available properties, and we want to include yours!
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