Supporting Nova Scotian Success and Sustainability

As we say goodbye to summer and welcome the crisp mornings and changing colours of autumn, I’d like to delve into the exciting events planned for the fall. First, October is Small Business Month, and an appropriate time to acknowledge our Nova Scotian-owned member businesses, which are at the very heart of our community.

One of our goals at CUA is to support our commercial members in their business and not-for-profit ventures. While rising costs, labour shortages and ongoing supply chain issues have at times seemed like an impossible battle, recent reports from the Nova Scotia Finance and Treasury Board indicate some better days for small businesses across the province. Since June 2023, the number of active businesses in Nova Scotia has increased by 0.4%, a positive statistic in comparison to the national decrease of 0.64%. Whether you’re a business owner, prospective entrepreneur, or leading a non-profit organization, our team is here to help. We have seen a number of success stories from members who have taken advantage of products such as our Small Business Loan Guarantee Program, including Hana Nelson, owner of Afishionado Fishmongers, a certified Ocean Wise® seafood partner, that supplies sustainably-sourced seafood to restaurants and consumers across Nova Scotia year-round. We also proudly support small businesses and non-profit organizations each year through our annual Community Investment Grant Program. This Program has recipients like Mandy Chapman, Executive Director of the Mobile Food Market, whose mission is so provide healthy, affordable, and sustainable food options across HRM—read our new article or watch our interview with Mandy here.

As part of our focus on Nova Scotian-owned businesses this month, and as the Halifax Chamber of Commerce banking Affinity Partner, CUA offers access to flexible banking solutions and preferred rates to members of the Chamber. As a member of the Chamber, you can receive cost-saving benefits, networking opportunities, and the chance to strengthen your voice in the Halifax business community. Learn more about our exclusive banking benefits for Halifax Chamber of Commerce members.

And in recognition of all our members, we are holding our annual Member Appreciation Day on Thursday, November 7. Each year, we recognize our members with exciting giveaways and in-branch celebrations. For 2024, we have an amazing assortment of prizes you can enter to win on our website. All entrants will also be eligible to win our early bird prizes, drawn each Friday until the contest closes, so get your ballots in early! I hope you have a chance to enjoy this event as we spend the day celebrating you, our wonderful members.  

In other upcoming news, from October 22 until November 12, our Annual Member Survey will be available for your feedback. As a member-owner, your input into CUA has a meaningful impact on our priorities and operations, helping to guide our efforts and provide the best experience to our members and the communities that we serve. To show our thanks, members who complete the Survey will be entered into a draw for a $1,000 cash prize. Mark your calendars and remember to share your feedback later this month.

I wish you the best this fall season, and hope you choose to support a small business in your community this month. As always, if you have any questions about our products, services, or upcoming events, you can reach us at 902.492.6500 or at info@cua.com.

Your CEO,