Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)

Overview of the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) program:

This program provides financial support to initiatives that promote sustained employment opportunities and enhance economic development in rural communities across Atlantic Canada. The funding is aimed at projects that not only create jobs but also build the capacity of these communities to grow economically over the long term. By focusing on sustainable development and workforce growth, the program seeks to strengthen the overall economic resilience of rural areas in the region, ensuring that they can thrive and remain vibrant for years to come.

Benefits of the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) program:

• The fund enables communities to:
• Develop thriving industry sectors
• Strengthen infrastructure in rural areas
• Invest in projects to help communities overcome economic issues and take advantage of new opportunities
• ACOA also fosters economic development in communities facing specific circumstances. Through the ICF, the Agency supports community projects undertaken by Indigenous groups and non-profit organizations in official language minority communities (OLMCs).

Eligibility criteria of the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) program:

• Who can apply
• Eligible recipients include:
• Non-commercial and non-profit organizations
• Indigenous bands and Indigenous-controlled non-profit entities
• Co-operatives and local development associations
• Municipalities and their agencies
• Educational institutions
• Industry or sector associations