Divert NS Waste Diversion Grants Fuel Innovation Among Immigrant-Owned Businesses
Last year, Divert NS announced a partnership with the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), pledging funding to support immigrant entrepreneurs in Nova Scotia to integrate sustainable practices into their businesses. Recognizing the challenges small businesses face in adopting environmentally friendly operations, the program provided financial support and resources to reduce single-use plastics, enhance recycling efforts, and encourage repair and repurposing practices.
The program was delivered through two intakes in November 2024 and January 2025. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with 52 applications submitted by immigrant-owned businesses across the province. In total, 30 businesses were awarded grants with a total of $50,000 in funding distributed to ISANS and their business clients.
“This micro-grants program demonstrates the vital role immigrant entrepreneurs play in advancing Nova Scotia’s sustainability goals,” said Christine Alvarez, Manager, Business Workforce Integration at ISANS. “By supporting these businesses, we are not only fostering innovation and resilience but also showing how strategic partnerships can deliver lasting economic and environmental impact.”
The businesses supported through this initiative reflect the diverse makeup of Nova Scotia’s immigrant community, including multiple industries such as food service, retail, professional services, arts and culture, and more.
One of the businesses supported was Namma Ooru Kadai Inc. who shared that “this grant empowers us to innovate sustainable packaging for our idly and dosa batter, extending shelf life from 7 days to up to 90 days. This transformation reduces food waste,enhances operational efficiency, and supports our commitment to environmentally friendly practices, helping us grow our business responsibly while reaching new markets.”
“We were thrilled by the interest in this grant program and the exciting initiatives that have resulted from it” said Sasha Barnard, Business Development Officer at Divert NS. “We applaud ISANS commitment to fostering environmentally conscious business practices within the immigrant community and look forward to watching these businesses flourish.”
To learn more about ISANS visit www.isans.ca
