Nova Scotia’s Life Sciences Sector: A Hub for Collaborative Innovation
Nova Scotia’s life sciences sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, establishing the province as a globally connected hub for biotechnology. With companies thriving on the international stage and groundbreaking infrastructure investments, Nova Scotia is positioning itself as a leader in Canada’s bioeconomy.
Local Innovation With A Global Reach
Nova Scotia’s life sciences companies are making their mark worldwide, forming strategic international partnerships and exporting cutting-edge innovations across continents. The province’s strength spans the full spectrum of life sciences—from biopharmaceuticals and medical devices to diagnostics and marine-based bioproducts.
Companies like Precision Biologic and BioMedica Diagnostics supply specialty diagnostic products to laboratories and hospitals around the world, while Acadian Seaplants exports its marine-based bioproducts to more than 80 countries. Adaptiiv has secured regulatory clearances and international partnerships to bring its patient-specific radiation oncology software to health systems across North America, Europe, and Asia. Meanwhile, Solid State Pharma collaborates with global pharmaceutical companies, supporting drug development programs with expertise in crystallization and solid-state chemistry.
This international success means that not only does Nova Scotia innovations reach global markets, but they also bring international capital, expertise, and collaborations back to our province.
World-Class Infrastructure Investment
Nova Scotia’s commitment to life sciences leadership is exemplified by the Neptune BioInnovation Centre, which opened in 2025 in Dartmouth. It’s Canada’s first-of-its-kind facility and one of only three in the world. This world-class, multi-user biofermentation centre received a transformative $5 million provincial investment. This will allow it to maintain 51,000 square feet of state-of-the-art wet and dry labs, offering commercial-scale precision fermentation and spray drying capacity.
The economic impact is substantial: the Neptune Centre is projected to create more than 2,400 jobs, and contribute $334 million annually to the province’s gross domestic product. This infrastructure positions Nova Scotia to compete globally while strengthening domestic supply chains across critical sectors including life sciences, pharmaceuticals, forestry, and agriculture.
Community and Collaboration
The strength of Nova Scotia’s life sciences ecosystem is showcased annually at BioPort Atlantic, now in its 24th year as Atlantic Canada’s premier life sciences summit. Drawing 300+ attendees from across the region each September to Halifax, this cornerstone event demonstrates the collaborative spirit driving innovation in Atlantic Canada.
BioPort Atlantic serves as more than a conference—it’s a catalyst for the partnerships and connections that fuel growth. The event features company showcases for emerging startups, investment panels connecting entrepreneurs with capital, and strategic discussions on international expansion and talent development. This conference serves as a hub for our region’s sector, and highlights the depth and diversity of Atlantic Canada’s life sciences pipeline.
The Road Ahead
Nova Scotia’s life sciences sector has build a foundation of success upon scientific excellence, strategic infrastructure investment, and collaborative community. With innovative startups gaining international recognition, new facilities like the Neptune BioInnovation Centre expanding capabilities, and established companies growing their global presence, Nova Scotia continues to strengthen its position in the bioeconomy.
For more information about our province’s thriving life sciences ecosystem, visit Life Sciences Nova Scotia at www.lifesciencesnovascotia.ca