Halifax Businesses Secure $2.5 Million Federal Boost to Accelerate AI Innovation and Economic Growth
Halifax businesses secured over $2.5M in federal funding to boost AI adoption, create skilled jobs, and enhance productivity. Projects target smart city tech, agriculture, and emotional intelligence software.
Federal Funding Boosts AI Adoption in Halifax Businesses
HALIFAX – Three Halifax-based companies focused on advancing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have secured over $2.5 million in federal funding. This investment aims to accelerate AI adoption, drive economic growth, and create skilled jobs in the region.
The announcement was made in Halifax by Lena Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Member of Parliament for Halifax West. The funding was provided on behalf of Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
Strategic Support for AI Innovation
The federal government is targeting investments to help businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations adopt AI in ways that improve productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. The $2,506,250 allocated supports AI-related projects at three Halifax companies, each with a clear focus on practical solutions and economic impact.
The Beneficiaries
- Liveable Cities (a division of LED Roadway Lighting Ltd.): Receiving $2 million (repayable) over two years, Liveable Cities is developing an AI-powered streetlight controller and camera system. This technology aims to reduce energy consumption by up to 30% while delivering real-time data to enhance public safety. The project will generate skilled jobs, support expansion into international markets, and strengthen the company’s position in smart city technologies.
- Oberland Agriscience Inc.: With $250,000 (repayable), Oberland Agriscience will implement AI-driven software and equipment to increase production efficiency, improve product quality, and minimize waste. This initiative will also support new product development and optimize formulations to reduce environmental impact and ease supply chain pressures.
- Kindred AI Inc.: Receiving $206,250 (repayable) and $50,000 (non-repayable), Kindred AI is advancing its real-time emotional intelligence software. This funding will accelerate product development, engineering, and commercialization, supporting job creation. The software helps users monitor and enhance emotional intelligence and can be integrated into other products. Kindred AI plans to expand features, enter new markets such as education and healthcare, and launch marketing efforts to broaden its client base.
Government Perspective
Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General and Minister responsible for ACOA, stated: “Atlantic Canadian companies aren’t just using AI — they’re turning it into real-world results. Whether it’s making our cities more efficient or creating good-paying jobs, these businesses demonstrate how innovation can drive impact. ACOA supports their growth so they can reach new markets and strengthen the economy.”
Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and MP for Halifax West, emphasized: “Investing in AI development and adoption is an investment in our future. By empowering local companies to innovate and compete globally, we are fostering a more prosperous future for all Canadians.”
Ken Cartmill, Co-CEO and Executive Vice-President of Product Development at LED Roadway Lighting Ltd., added: “We appreciate ACOA and the Government of Canada’s support through this $2 million repayable contribution. It will help us accelerate the development of advanced real-time traffic adaptive lighting solutions that improve energy efficiency and public safety. At Liveable Cities, we are committed to creating smart, sustainable technologies that benefit communities.”
Additional Details
- Funding for Liveable Cities and Oberland Agriscience Inc. comes through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, which supports businesses leveraging AI to boost commercialization, innovation, and competitiveness.
- Kindred AI Inc.’s funding is provided via the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, aimed at accelerating business growth by adopting new technologies and expanding market reach.
This targeted funding reflects Canada’s commitment to supporting AI-driven business growth with practical applications that improve efficiency, sustainability, and economic outcomes.
