Forestry Digital Adoption Program – Digital Nova Scotia – Leading Digital Industry

 

The Forestry Digital Adoption Program helps 15 forestry businesses across Nova Scotia build stronger digital capacity and stay competitive in a changing economy. Developed in partnership with the Forestry Sector Council and funded by the Government of Nova Scotia, the program connects businesses with local digital service providers to enhance business models, improve customer-facing services, and boost online visibility. A strong digital presence helps forestry businesses attract new clients, build trust, and support long-term, sustainable growth.

Eligible applicants will complete an online application, outlining their digital challenges and opportunities. Approved applicants will be matched with a qualified consultant for up to $10,000 (tax inclusive) in services. For eligibility criteria and program details, please see our FAQs.

Forestry Digital Adoption Program (FDAP) Brochure

2025 Application Timeline

Forestry Businesses

Digital Service Providers

Applications Closed August 1, 2025

Questions? Reach out to us!

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What services can I receive through the Forestry Digital Adoption Program?

Participating businesses will receive up to $10,000 (including HST) in consulting services from qualified digital service providers to enhance efficiency and productivity through tailored digital solutions.

Branding & Design
Development or refinement of visual identity, including logos, brand colours, typography, and design assets that convey a cohesive and professional image.

Digital Marketing
Strategic planning and execution of online campaigns using email marketing, search engines, and other digital channels to increase visibility and customer engagement.

Social Media
Setup, optimization, and content planning for platforms like Facebook, Instagram + more to build audience engagement and brand awareness.

E-commerce
Implementation or enhancement of online sales platforms, including product listings, shopping cart functionality, secure payment processing, and order tracking.

Website Design & Development
Creation or modernization of websites, including layout design, content integration, mobile responsiveness, and tools like AI-powered chatbots and automated workflows.

Online Booking
Integration of scheduling or booking systems that allow customers to make appointments online, improving accessibility and reducing admin time.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Improving website visibility on search engines through keyword optimization, content strategy, and technical enhancements to attract more organic traffic.

Data Collection and/or Analytics
Setting up or enhancing systems to gather, track, and analyze customer or operational data, providing insights for better decision-making and business performance.

Copywriting
Creation of written content for websites, advertisements, social media, or email campaigns that effectively communicate brand messaging.

Photography and/or Videography (Capped at $2,500 inclusive)
Professional photography or video production for use in digital marketing, websites, or promotional materials. May include product shots, staff profiles, or facility tours.

Digital Advertisements (Capped at $1,000 inclusive)
Development and placement of paid ads on platforms like Google Ads or Meta (Facebook/Instagram), including ad design, audience targeting, and campaign reporting.

What is the eligibility to participate in the Forestry Digital Adoption Program?

FDAP is open to forestry businesses that are based in Nova Scotia, are members of the Forestry Sector Council (or have submitted an application for membership), and are currently operating or plan to operate in 2026.

Businesses must demonstrate a need to improve a component of their digital presence and show that they are able to implement the identified improvements by March 31, 2026. Applicants must be in good standing with the Registry of Joint Stock Companies.

Priority will be given to forestry businesses and organizations that are committed to sustainable forest management and advancing environmental, social, and economic values within the sector.

How is Equity, Diversity and Inclusion factored into the approval of program participants?

FORSEC and DNS are committed to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, and accessibility (EDIRA) in Nova Scotia. We encourage and prioritize applications from equity-deserving businesses and organizations, as well as those that help amplify the voices and experiences of underrepresented communities

 

Who reviews the applications?

A joint review panel from DNS and FORSEC will evaluate and score applications based on:

  • Business model: Preference given to businesses reliant on customer sales/lead generation rather than primarily public funding.
  • Digital readiness: Clearly defined needs, realistic goals, and a strong commitment to implementation.
  • Impact: Proposed activities contribute to sustainable forest management and reflect environmental, social, and economic values.
  • Equity and inclusion: Preference to equity-deserving groups and businesses promoting underrepresented communities.

Do I need to know what services I need in order to apply for these programs?

Applicants should be as specific as possible in their application about their desired services. However applicants may indicate if they would like to discuss their digital needs by checking the box for “Help, I don’t know what services I need” in the digital services section of the application form. This will trigger a more comprehensive needs assessment for approved participants.

How does the program work? Do I select my own digital consultant?

Businesses selected for the Forestry Digital Adoption Program will have their applications reviewed by Digital Nova Scotia and may be contacted to further discuss their current challenges and what they need to do to improve their online marketing. Businesses can include a request to work with a specific consultant in their application. If there is no request, 

Digital Nova Scotia will provide a list with recommendations of qualified consultants and businesses will select the consultant that works best for them. Digital Nova Scotia will then create a contract between Digital Nova Scotia and the Consultant before work can commence on the project. 

Businesses will work with the consultants to complete the identified technology project and submit a final report to Digital Nova Scotia. Consultants will submit invoices for their services directly to Digital Nova Scotia.

How many businesses will be accepted?

A total of 15 businesses will be accepted, with 11 projects receiving $5,000 each (tax inclusive) and 4 projects receiving $10,000 each (tax inclusive).