Forest Training and Applied Research Grant program

A piece of forestry machinery sits on the edge of a forest lot with various types of trees.

Funding support for forestry-related practical research and training projects

Through the Forest Training and Applied Research Grant (FTARG) program, funding is available for both training and research projects, with grants ranging from $15,000 to $75,000.

The program aims to:

Advance ecological forestry practices
Bring organizations together to strengthen collaboration and partnership
Improve training and professional standards in Nova Scotia’s forestry sector
Encourage innovation and new opportunities in forestry

Who can apply?

Grants are open to:

Businesses
Indigenous organizations
Industry associations
Municipalities
Non-profit organizations
Registered charities

Organizations must be able to demonstrate that their operations are primarily based in Nova Scotia and must be in good standing with all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations.

Project eligibility

Eligible organizations may apply for funding through 1 or both of the 2 FTARG streams: training and applied research. Project concepts must align with at least 1 of the program’s funding priorities.

Training stream priorities

Priority	Description
Modernizing forest trades	Training that supports the adoption of: New technologies and equipment Safety practices Operational efficiencies
Ecological forestry and supply chain skills	Training that helps forestry professionals: Use environmentally responsible forestry practices Learn new skills for any stage of the forest supply chain
New markets and emerging opportunities	Training that prepares workers for growth areas, including: Mass timber construction Biomass energy Advanced manufacturing Digital forestry tools AI-enabled forestry systems

Applied research stream priorities

Priority	Description
Forest innovation and commercialization	Research that develops one or more of the following with commercial potential: New forest products New forest technologies New forest processes
Low-grade fibre uses and downstream market development	Research that creates higher value uses for: Low-grade fibre Wood residuals Other biproducts from forest operations
Entrepreneurship and new market development	Research that supports: Viability of new products Market expansion Business growth Economic diversification
Ecological forestry	Research that supports: Advancement of ecological forestry practices Implementation of the ecological triad

Key dates and program details

Review the timeline and program considerations below before submitting a concept form.

For full program details, refer to the FTARG Program Guide (PDF 149 KB).

Aug. 17, 2026: Program launches and concept form intake opens.
Sept. 22, 2026: The Concept Form is paused as of September 22 while the first round of applications are under review. It will be re-opened as of October 7 if sufficient grant funding remains.
October 7 to Oct. 23, 2026: If funding allows for a second round, invited applicants may submit full applications during this window. Applicants who wish to be considered during the November review should email their completed application to by Friday, October 23.
First week of October and November 2026: Full applications are reviewed for funding decisions.
Dec. 31, 2027: Funded projects must be completed.

Important: Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If all available funding is committed during an earlier review period, the program may close before the final application deadline.

Application process

Submit a concept form Complete and submit a concept form outlining the details of your proposed project.

Receive feedback An NSCC project coordinator will review your submission and contact you to discuss your project. If your project is a good fit for the program, you will be invited to complete a full application.

Complete the application Work with an NSCC project coordinator to complete and submit your application.

Complete and submit concept form (currently on pause)

Contact us

If you have questions about the Forest Training and Applied Research Grant (FTARG) program or the application process, reach out to for more information.