Economic Development
Discover Nova Scotia’s Dark Sky T’Railway
Powered by Western REN, Fueling Local Economies Stretching more than 200 kilometres across three counties and seven municipalities, the Dark Sky T’Railway is one of Western Nova Scotia’s most connected outdoor experiences. It links Shelburne, Yarmouth and Digby County communities, businesses and coastal landscapes. And it welcomes walkers, runners, cyclists, and off‑highway vehicle riders alike….
Two Paths, One Connection: Direct Entry Pathways
A practical solution for skilled trades hiring: paid apprenticeships for learners and reduced risk for employers. By Shelley Bellefontaine, Connector Program Coordinator Editor’s Note: Hiring in the skilled trades is challenging. And for many individuals, traditional post-secondary pathways simply don’t fit. The Direct Entry Pathway through the Western Regional Enterprise Network (Western REN) Connector Program…
The Western REN February Update
February is all about connection, leadership, and looking ahead. It’s all part of the ongoing work to build a stronger, more resilient economy across Western Nova Scotia. Critical Roundtable Breakfast: Navigating Business Challenges in 2026 Critical Issues. Real Conversations. Regional Solutions. The Western REN in partnership with Yarmouth & Area Chamber of Commerce and CBDC Yarmouth, is bringing together business…
What’s 2026 Going to Look Like for You and Your Business?
By Wade Cleveland Welcome to the early days of 2026. It’s a great time for businesses to take a moment to reflect on where they’ve been, and to think seriously about where they’re going. In Western Nova Scotia, that question feels especially important right now. The past few years have brought constant change: shifting markets,…
The Power of Networking: How Connections Spark Opportunity
If there’s one thing rural Nova Scotia does exceptionally well, it’s connection. The real kind of connection. The kind built over coffees at the wharf, surprise chats at the grocery store, and those unexpected meetups where someone says, “Hey, you should talk to so-and-so.” Here in Western Nova Scotia, our business ecosystem thrives because people…
Western Nova Scotia’s One-of-a-Kind Christmas Tree Tradition
There’s a moment every year – often the first time you spot a strand of lights glowing through the cold – when the holiday spirit settles in. In Western Nova Scotia, that moment has taken on a distinctly coastal charm. Our region has embraced a Christmas tradition that’s as unique as our shoreline: Lobster Trap…
The Western REN December Roundup
Our Second Annual Toy Drive Is On NOW This season, let’s come together to make Christmas brighter for children in need. Until Thursday, December 11th, we’re collecting new, unwrapped toys to help brighten Christmas for children in need across our region. If you’d like to take part, simply drop your gift off under the Christmas…
The Western REN November Update
Celebrating Businesses in the Western Region Wrapping Up a Busy October! What an October! From welcoming two Cruise Ships to Yarmouth Harbour to Small Business Week to Nova Scotia Music Week, things were definitely hopping, and Western REN was proudly there through it all. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make the…