Business Development Programs & Services

About the Program

ISANS’ Business Development Services provide personalized support for immigrant entrepreneurs to start, manage or expand their businesses in Nova Scotia. The program offers the tools, knowledge and connections necessary to navigate the local business landscape and contribute to the province’s economic growth.

Program Highlights

Participants of the Business Development Services will:

Receive one-on-one business counselling tailored to individual business goals
Access foundational training to support new and growing businesses
Gain insight into Nova Scotia’s business culture, regulations, and market trends
Attend networking events to build connections within the local business community
Explore opportunities to promote their businesses through ISANS initiatives
Access information on external business supports, including organizations, events, and training opportunities

Contact Information

clients have participated in the programs

of participants are women entrepreneurs

new businesses started by clients in one year

Explore What We Offer

An immigrant discussing business with mentors and industry experts about buying and selling process

Business Acquisition Support

Guiding immigrants through the process of buying or selling a business in Nova Scotia.

Business Counselling

One-on-one guidance to start, grow, or manage a business in Nova Scotia.

immigrant entrepreneur discussing with his business mentor

Business Mentorship Program

Connecting immigrants with experienced business professionals across Nova Scotia.

An entrepreneur woman showing her products online

Business Training Workshops

Build the knowledge and skills to succeed in Nova Scotia’s business environment.

An immigrant woman smiling in front of her shop

Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Network (IWEN)

Empowering immigrant and refugee women to build and grow their own businesses.

Business Training Calendar

ISANS is pleased to invite you to a dynamic lineup of no cost business training & information sessions tailored for newcomer entrepreneurs. Delivered by ISANS and expert partners, these interactive sessions are designed to help you build a business, strengthen communication, and grow your business with confidence in Nova Scotia.

View Calendar

Featured Supporter

Craft Nova Scotia

To support the growth and integration of newcomers in the craft sector, ISANS is thrilled to have recently signed a strategic partnership with Craft Nova Scotia, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Nova Scotia's craft movement and creating awareness and appreciation of craft products and activities.

This partnership will expand opportunities for entrepreneurial newcomers to participate in events and craft shows and access exclusive benefits such as Craft NS's Maker Membership.

To learn more, contact business@isans.ca

Impact Stories

Through the lens of resilience: Neetu Singh’s journey as a woman entrepreneur

"What really touches me about ISANS is the genuine care they show in helping newcomers succeed. It’s not just about providing resources; it's about truly believing in people and their potential to build new lives here. More than just business training, IWEN has given me meaningful collaborations, deep friendships, and a true sense of belonging in this new chapter of my life.” 

A male immigrant business owner in front of his shop

ISANS Business Marketplace: Showcasing Immigrant-Owned Businesses

With hundreds of visitors exploring our site, the Marketplace helps immigrant-owned businesses reach new customers, grow their visibility, and connect with other entrepreneurs in the community.

Starting Your Business

As you begin your journey towards entrepreneurship, the ISANS Business Team has compiled resources to assist you. Your Business Counsellor can help you navigate these resources.

Growing Your Business

Growing your business is the natural next step once your business is stable and strong. Before investing more money on expanding services, creating/introducing new products or reaching out to new markets it is always helpful to take these steps:

Opportunities to Support Immigrant Businesses

ISANS Business Development Services volunteers provide additional support to immigrant entrepreneurs who wish to start or grow their business in Nova Scotia.

By helping serve, mentor or connect newcomers to the community, you can help build a community where all can belong and grow.

Become a Business Mentor

Volunteer Program

Testimonials

Anjana Moktan, Founder of The Spiny Crafts

“IWEN has provided me with the right platforms and the opportunity to network with other women entrepreneurs. I have attended several of IWEN’s seminars, which have improved my understanding of business management, market analysis and client retention.”

“The IWEN Vendor Market event is highly promising. I want to see the Vendor Market continue to grow. In order to get the best guidance from the appropriate professionals, I would advise the women entrepreneurs to get in touch with ISANS.”

Sunny M. Dai, Founder of Serre Ko Handmade Press-On Nails

"I feel really honored to be here at the first IWEN Vendor Market. This is a great platform where we can bring our business ideas back to life. Thank you for arranging this event. I feel like I have gained more confidence to continue with the next chapter."

Carolyn Harnanan, Founder of Story Circles World

Shirin Vahedi, Co Founder of Coastwide Construction

"IWEN has been a cornerstone in my journey, providing invaluable resources and connections that empowered me to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a local business in a new country."