Helping HRM businesses grow and succeed
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, resilience isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a business imperative. From global trade tensions to productivity challenges, Halifax businesses are navigating a landscape that demands agility, foresight, and support.
That’s where Halifax Partnership’s SmartBusiness program steps in, serving as a vital partner for business, delivering the guidance, resources, and connections needed to not only weather uncertainty but to drive growth and success.
One-on-one support across HRM
Whether you’re a rural entrepreneur or an urban innovator, finding the right advice can make all the difference as your company grows. SmartBusiness is a support system designed for Halifax businesses, providing practical support in areas that matter most to business owners.
Through personalized, one-on-one engagement, the SmartBusiness team connects businesses across HRM to the resources, expertise, and networks needed to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
This includes guidance on how to scale up operations, boost productivity and increase efficiency. Business owners can also receive assistance in exploring new markets, diversifying their supply chains and partnerships, and navigating the often-complex world of government procurement. The SmartBusiness team works closely with businesses to identify their specific support needs and directly connect them with the right experts. Our Action Team consists of senior-level, decision-ready professionals equipped to drive meaningful outcomes.
Building business resilience
Recent years have underscored the importance of being prepared. From wildfires and floods to pandemic-related disruptions, Halifax businesses have faced unprecedented challenges. In response, Halifax Partnership developed a Business Continuity Toolkit, a step-by-step guide that helps companies assess risks, safeguard their operations, and bounce back faster.
The toolkit guides businesses through mapping their most critical processes and resources, conducting thorough risk assessments, and developing strategies to ensure continuity and recovery when challenges arise. It also covers how to train staff and test response plans, ensuring teams are confident and prepared implementing these plans. This proactive approach ensures businesses aren’t just reacting to crises but are ready for them.
Tackling the productivity puzzle
Nova Scotia ranks among the lowest in North America in terms of GDP per capita and labour productivity, which impacts our economy, standard of living, and future growth. Recognizing this, Halifax Partnership launched The Productivity Puzzle initiative to spark dialogue and drive action through events, research, and collaboration with private, public and post-secondary leaders.
The SmartBusiness team is helping SMEs overcome productivity challenges by connecting them with training, funding, and resources designed to streamline operations and support the adoption of new technologies. The Partnership’s Virtual Adviser Program, powered by SeasonedPros, connects local businesses with experienced professionals for one-on-one guidance on company-specific issues. In partnership with Google Canada and Digital Nova Scotia, small and medium-sized businesses can also access fully funded scholarships to the Google Prompting Essentials course, helping them tap into the power of AI to streamline operations and drive innovation.
Navigating trade disruptions
With the recent Canada-U.S. trade dispute, businesses in HRM are feeling the pressure. Through the SmartBusiness program, companies can diversify supply chains, explore new markets, and mitigate risks. As the only G7 country with free trade agreements with all six other member countries, Canada offers vast opportunities for global trade and business expansion. The SmartBusiness team ensures local SMEs are not only well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities but are fully supported in leveraging trade missions and international partnerships.
Easy access to resources
For businesses seeking support, the SmartBusiness Resource Directory offers a wealth of resources. From funding programs to export development and workforce training, this curated hub connects businesses to local organizations dedicated to fostering development and growth. Connect with the SmartBusiness team at:
