CUA launches $100,000 Grant Program

Applications open across Nova Scotia until January 29th



Halifax, N.S. – Applications are now being accepted for CUA’s 2021 Community Investment Grant Program. With $100,000 available, small businesses, non-profits, community groups and leaders across Nova Scotia are encouraged to apply.   

Since its inception in 2015, the Program has evolved significantly in terms of funding and provincial scope. “We’re excited to see it growing alongside our recipients,” says Marie Mullally, CUA’s President and CEO. “We’ve discovered these investments are about much more than money to the recipients; it’s a vote of confidence that says we believe in you, we value your work and we want to be part of your future.”

Former grant recipient Stefanie MacDonald, owner of Halifax Paper Hearts, agrees. “With the $5,000 grant, I was able to buy a digital camera and an iPad so I could learn how to illustrate by hand” she says. “To be recognized in that way, it encouraged me to keep going.”

To date, the Program has impacted 40 local businesses, initiatives, and organizations across Nova Scotia. For 2021, funds will be allocated in five categories:

Small Business ($40,000). This category consists of small businesses and social enterprises with a strategic investment of between $1,000 and $10,000 to be used for new equipment, technology, operational design or e-commerce development.


Sustainability ($20,000). This category supports projects with a measurable impact on the environment, ecosystem and biodiversity. A minimum of two recipients will be in the area of energy efficiency, the reduction of greenhouse gases and/or improved waste management.


Health and Wellness ($15,000). This category supports programs or initiatives that improve the health and well-being of Nova Scotians, enhancing communities and health outcomes in the areas of financial health, mental health, food security, sport or physical fitness. A minimum of three grant recipients will be selected in this category.


Community ($15,000). This category is for non-profit organizations and community associations in Nova Scotia, providing grants between $1,000 and $10,000 to invest in a one-time purchase, program or initiative that would otherwise not be possible, enhancing their impact on clients and communities.  


New Business ($10,000). This category is for businesses who have incorporated or started operations in 2020 and will provide between $1,000 and $5,000 to support growth and expansion.

Applications can be submitted online at cua.com/grants and will be accepted until 4:00p.m. on January 29, 2021.

About CUA

Based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, CUA is a full-service banking institution serving 20,000 members with flexible products, personalized service and quick decisions. CUA has eight branches spanning from Tantallon to Cole Harbour, as well as Wealth Management Services, Commercial Banking Centre and a dedicated Customer Contact Centre. 


Media Contact    

Lindsay Cross, MPR 
lcross@cua.com