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Innovation is a key driver in our economy. The businesses that can harness fresh ideas, will be the ones that will have the greatest chance to succeed. To that end, the Nova Scotia Co-operative Council has created an Innovation Council charged with promoting, stimulating and managing an innovation agenda within the co-operative sector over the next decade
The Council is led by senior decision-makers throughout our co-operative and credit union businesses.
Why Innovation?
The concept of innovation within the co-operative sector is not new. We have been growing and expanding our product lines and services since our beginnings. We know that our co-operative leaders and members have great ideas for innovation. Their problem is that they need more time, expertise, and resources to pursue those ideas. We also know that the ability to innovate, to add value, and to continue to grow in new and exciting ways is very important to our collective future.
Our goal is to work with local co-operatives in spawning and stimulating innovation within their businesses. It may be an idea that you have for a new product or service that can be commercialized, or developing or enhancing a system or process to do business more efficiently and profitably. The Council accepts expressions of interest on an annual basis.
How Many Applicants Are Accepted?
Innovation is a long-term process. It takes time, energy, resources, patience, and commitment. Rarely does one see results in the short-term. The Council supports approximately two new projects per year, but is always interested in considering submissions.
How Does the Selection Process Work?
Once the expressions of interest have been received, a committee of the Nova Scotia Co-operative Council and our partners will review the submissions. The proponents of the top proposal may be asked to meet with the review committee before a final decision is made. Following a review of all submissions, you will be notified of the committee's decisions and next steps.
Those not selected for support during the year they applied will be eligible for review again in subsequent years. If you're not successful in year one, let us give you some feedback.
How Can You Apply?
To apply, please describe and submit a brief outline of the following to the Nova Scotia Co-operative Innovation Council:
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Your idea
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Why do you think this idea is ’innovative‘?
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Why have you not pursued this idea before now?
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Who will lead and manage an innovation initiative within your co-operative?
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What strengths do you feel your co-operative has in moving forward with an innovation idea (technical expertise, strong management, etc)?
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What is the size of the market potential for this idea, from your perspective?
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How much do you think it would cost, financially, to take this idea from the idea stage, through the development process, and into the marketplace?
We hope that your co-operative will give serious consideration to submitting an idea for 'innovation'. This is an exciting opportunity for the co-operative sector to take part in the innovation agenda for Nova Scotia, and to ensure the future growth and success of the co-operative economy.
For more information, please contact us .
Innovation Council Call for Proposals (PDF) | 
