Province Brings Businesses, Exporting Experts Together to Boost Trade

NOTE: A list of businesses receiving funding from the Global Business Accelerator Program follows this release.

NOTE: A social media version of this release, with hi-res, downloadable photos, are available at http://novascotia.ca/news/smr/2014-04-11-Business-Accelerator/ .

More photos will be added after the event.
From underwater microscopes to wild blueberry juice, Nova Scotia businesses are developing a variety of innovative products, and the government is helping export them around the world.

“These businesses understand the importance of trade and expansion into new markets,” said Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Michel Samson. “Government wants to partner with companies that are taking steps to become more competitive and are ready to take their business to the next level.”

Mr. Samson announced today, April 11, that 13 businesses throughout the province have received $342,000 in funding from the Global Business Accelerator Program.

Under the program, businesses hire a professional with international business expertise, and the government reimburses up to 80 per cent of eligible costs, to a maximum of $35,000.

“The overwhelming majority of our business is done outside Nova Scotia and even outside of Canada, so if we are going to grow, it’s going to be through a systematic approach to export to global markets,” said 4Deep Inwater Imaging CEO Stephen Jones. “Working with our advisor, we were able to tailor our product for a handful of key markets and generate hundreds of leads.”

Halifax-based 4Deep was awarded $35,000 last year from the program and was advised by BSM Global Partners, also of Halifax.

“We want to help companies like 4Deep Inwater Imaging expand by building relationships and providing international experience,” said BSM Global Partners president Philip Bassil. “Sharing this level of expertise gives businesses the chance to grow faster and it creates more opportunities for Nova Scotians.”

4Deep uses patented holographic imaging technology to create simple and powerful underwater microscopes for the oil and gas industry, oceanographic studies, academic research and other sectors.

In Caledonia, Queens Co., Van Dyk’s Health Juice Products Ltd. received $19,754 from the program this year to develop a marketing and promotional strategy for the company’s award-winning wild blueberry juice.

“When you’re trying to sell your product in a new market, there’s no easy way to get your foot in the door,” said Van Dyk board member Leo van Dijk. “No two markets are the same, and sometimes what works here won’t work there. That’s why it’s so important to be able to access this kind of expertise that will give us a fresh perspective and a better chance for success.”

The program is administered by Nova Scotia Business Inc., on behalf of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism.

Applications are now available for the program, and will be accepted until May 20. For more information, including guidelines and an application form, visit www.novascotia.ca/econ/GBAP .

Source: Release

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