The Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), delivered by Canada's regional development agencies (RDAs), is part of the Government of Canada's strategy to defend Canadian jobs, industries and supply chains. It is part of a coordinated effort to protect Canadian businesses and workers from the impacts of tariffs.
The RTRI provides $3.45 billion over 4 years to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) impacted by tariffs to help them adapt to changing market conditions, strengthen their competitiveness, diversify into new markets, and build greater trade resilience with more flexibility to address liquidity pressures.
In Atlantic Canada, ACOA delivers the RTRI.
The RTRI offers different types of support to help tariff-impacted businesses maintain operations, strengthen competitiveness and build long-term resilience. Click here to learn more.
To be eligible, your business must:
- be an incorporated for-profit business located and operating in Atlantic Canada.
- have a minimum of $1 million in annual revenue in one or both of your company’s last two fiscal years.
- have been viable prior to tariffs.
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Nova Scotia's Response
Halifax Chamber of Commerce's Resource Centre
The Halifax Chamber of Commerce is your hub for updates, resources, and special offers for local businesses impacted by tariffs.
Nova Scotia's response to international tariffs
Nova Scotia is working with the Government of Canada to support workers and businesses affected by international tariffs. Programs and services are available to help businesses adapt, explore new markets and support workers through training and employment services.
The federal government has announced supports for businesses and workers impacted by the tariffs. You can access more information on the Government of Canada website.
Click here to learn more on how Nova Scotia is responding to international tariffs.
Media: September 9, 2026 - CBC's Information Morning Halifax
Canada's new counter-tariffs and the swift retaliation from the White House are triggering a new level of stress for Nova Scotia businesses caught in the escalating trade war. We connect with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce to find out the impacts on our provincial capital's business community.