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Ignite Labs – Pictou County
Project: Establish Ignite Labs in Pictou County
Region: Nova Scotia
Impact:
- Stimulating tech-based business growth, encouraging innovation in local businesses, and engaging youth in technology
Status:
- In progress
Timeline:
- Two-year pilot completed in the summer of 2022
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) delivers the Canada Coal Transition Initiative (CCTI) in Nova Scotia. The Agency has provided $300,000 to Ignite Labs.
Project Overview

Ignite Labs is an incubator space for rural-based technology companies to grow to the commercialization phase. This two-year pilot project involves the establishment of a new location in Pictou County, an area traditionally dependent on coal. Ignite Pictou offers an array of services and support to new and early-stage enterprises in north eastern Nova Scotia.
Objectives
Ignite Labs will offer an array of services and support―including access to infrastructure, mentoring, and industry partnerships―to new and early-stage enterprises, which will greatly reduce the risks associated with new business start-ups. This project aims to encourage innovation and engage youth in technology, thus diversifying the local economy and creating new growth.
Expected Results
Ignite Pictou has exceeded its stated target to support at least 10 start-up companies during its initial two years of operation, with 20 companies assisted to date.