Aboriginal Community Development Fund

Overview of the Aboriginal Community Development Fund program:

The ACDF is a provincial initiative designed to empower Mi’kmaq and Aboriginal communities in Nova Scotia by supporting diverse, community-driven projects that improve economic, cultural, ecological, and social outcomes. The fund provides strategic financial support for initiatives led by Mi’kmaq bands or Aboriginal organizations that align with local and provincial development priorities. Administered by the Office of Aboriginal Affairs (OAA), the ACDF is structured around four main funding streams: Community and Economic Development Projects – funding for business planning, feasibility studies, marketing strategies, strategic and organizational planning. Strategic Capacity Building – support for sector development, revenue generation (excluding gaming), entrepreneurial start-up, and projects enhancing community quality of life. Conferences, Workshops, and Event Support – for educational and networking events within Nova Scotia or the Atlantic region. Aboriginal/Mi’kmaq Innovation – for unique, one-time, or pilot projects that require flexibility and demonstrate broader community or Nation-wide impact. The fund has a total annual budget of $75,000, so it is intended to complement other funding sources. Projects must clearly demonstrate community benefit, innovation, and funding partnerships. They must also align with Mi’kmaq development strategies and provincial economic goals. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and funding decisions are made based on merit and budget availability. Projects must be completed within the provincial fiscal year (April 1 – March 31).

Benefits of the Aboriginal Community Development Fund program:

• Supports diverse project types: planning, innovation, events, capacity building
• Encourages economic self-reliance and community development
• Enables entrepreneurship and sector development within Mikmaq communities
• Provides seed funding to unlock other provincial or federal support
• Promotes partnerships and collaboration
• Recognizes and fosters cultural and ecological stewardship through innovation projects

Eligibility criteria of the Aboriginal Community Development Fund program:

• Eligible Applicants:
• Mikmaq Band Councils and their agencies
• Aboriginal organizations registered under the Nova Scotia Registry of Joint Stocks
• Aboriginal initiatives led by provincial/federal agencies or non-profits (with community support)
• Ineligible Applicants:
• Private for-profit businesses
• Crown corporations or federal government departments
• Licensed liquor establishments
• Private clubs or gaming agencies
• Individuals
• Project Requirements:
• Must align with one of the four ACDF streams
• Must provide a cash contribution (minimum 10%)
• Must not duplicate funding responsibilities of other departments or Tripartite Forum funds
• Must not request funding for ineligible costs (e.g., payroll, regular operating expenses, credit charges, alcohol)