event
funding
Supporting events that grow tourism in Central Nova Scotia.
The Central Nova Scotia Tourism Development Society (CNSTDS) invests in events that attract visitors, generate overnight stays, strengthen destination awareness, and contribute to the economic, social and cultural vitality of our region.
From festivals and sporting events to conferences and major hosting opportunities, our Event Investment Program supports the development, growth and attraction of events that create meaningful tourism benefits.
Our investments are focused on growing visitation, strengthening shoulder and off-peak tourism activity, supporting regional event-hosting capacity, and creating lasting benefits for Central Nova Scotia.
At a Glance
Types of Events
Funding Levels
CNSTDS funding is intended to complement other event revenues and investments, rather than serve as the primary source of financing.
As a general guideline, CNSTDS investment should not exceed 20% of an event's budget, excluding organizational operating costs.
Funding decisions are based on anticipated tourism impact, strategic alignment, eligible expenses, financial leverage, available resources and potential long-term benefits.
All funding is subject to availability and approval. CNSTDS may approve an amount lower than requested or restrict its investment to specific eligible activities.
Up to $10,000
Streamlined Application
A simplified application and evaluation process proportionate to the investment requested.
Over $10,000
Detailed Application
A more comprehensive application, including supporting financial and event information.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
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Be a non-profit organization, charity, or incorporated association
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Have the capacity to deliver the event
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Be in good financial standing
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Have completed reporting for any previously funded CNSTDS events
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Apply before the event takes place and before funds are committed
Event Eligibility
To be eligible, events must:
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Take place in Colchester County, Truro, Millbrook First Nation, or Stewiacke, or clearly demonstrate significant tourism impact in the region
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Demonstrate tourism impact, including attracting visitors from outside the region
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Include a marketing plan targeting out-of-region audiences
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Provide a balanced and realistic event budget
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Include a clear risk management and safety plan
Ineligible Events
We do not fund:
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Private functions such as weddings, banquets, and reunions
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Fundraising events or galas without tourism benefit
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Grassroots local-only events with a total budget under $5,000
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Religious or political gatherings
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Retroactive funding requests
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Events that present undue reputational, legal, or safety risk
Application Deadlines
Primary Intake
Nov 1 to Nov 30
For events occurring between April 1 and March 31
Secondary Intake
May 1 to May 31
For events occurring between September 1 and March 31, subject to remaining funds
Strategic Hosting Opportunities
Accepted year-round due to time-sensitive bid requirements
How Events Are Evaluated
30%
Tourism Impact.
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Number of out-of-region attendees
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Estimated room nights
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Multi-day programming
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Alignment with off-peak or shoulder seasons
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Ability to grow visitation over time
20%
Economic Impact.
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Visitor spending on accommodations, food, retail, and services
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Use of local suppliers and vendors
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Overall contribution to the local economy
20%
Community Benefit & Legacy.
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Cultural, sport, or tourism development benefits
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Community engagement and partnerships
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Accessibility and inclusivity
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Plans to reinvest any surplus into future event growth or tourism outcomes
15%
Marketing & Visibility.
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Marketing plan targeting out-of-region audiences
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Use of digital, media, and promotional channels
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Partnerships or media opportunities
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Overall reach and visibility of the event
15%
Organizational Capacity & Risk Management.
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Experience and track record of the organization
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Staff and volunteer capacity
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Operational and financial readiness
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Risk management planning (weather, safety, financial, etc.)
Before You Apply
To ensure you are prepared for the full application, please ensure you have the following information:
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Event overview and objectives
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Event schedule
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Venue confirmation
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Tourism impact projections
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Marketing and promotion plan
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Risk management and safety plan
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Full event budget
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Bid documents, if applicable
If Your Application is Approved
Successful applicants must:
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Sign a funding agreement before any funds are released
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Acknowledge CNSTDS support in event marketing and communications
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Submit a post-event report within 60 days of the event end date
Post-event reporting includes attendance, visitor estimates, room nights where applicable, financial reconciliation, and marketing results.
FAQ
Ready to Apply?
We recommend reviewing the full event investment policy prior to completing an application. To ensure eligibility, you will first be asked to complete an online intake form. After submission, the full application form will be emailed to you for completion within 2 business days.