The Association of Fundraising Professionals Nova Scotia Chapter (AFPNS), the professional association representing fundraisers from across Nova Scotia, is deeply concerned by the recent provincial budget decisions that significantly reduce funding to many community organizations across the province.
Nonprofits and charitable organizations are essential community partners in delivering services that Nova Scotians rely on every day. From supporting seniors and people with disabilities to advancing arts, culture, education, and community wellbeing, these organizations fill critical gaps that neither government nor the private sector can address alone. When funding is reduced abruptly or without consultation, the consequences are immediate and profound for numerous Nova Scotians in the communities delivering these essential services.
The charitable nonprofit sector is already under immense pressure. Rising costs, increased demand for services, and workforce challenges have placed many nonprofits in a fragile position. For equity-deserving communities, including African Nova Scotian, Indigenous, disability, and newcomers, these organizations are often the primary providers of culturally relevant programs and essential services. Funding cuts therefore risk widening existing inequities and undermining years of progress toward a more inclusive province.
We acknowledge that Premier Tim Houston recently announced the reinstatement of $53.6 million in grants after hearing concerns from Nova Scotians and community organizations. This decision reflects the strength of community voices and the importance of listening to the sector directly impacted by these measures. However, many communities and organizations remain affected, particularly in the arts and culture sector.
This is troubling at a time when cultural employment in the Halifax region is growing and contributing significantly to the province’s economy and identity. In the Halifax census metropolitan area, employment in arts, culture, heritage, and sport occupations has grown from approximately 7,200 workers in 2013 to 9,700 in 2025, a 35% increase. These workers and organizations are not only cultural contributors; they are economic drivers, educators, and community builders.
Sudden reductions to funding threaten this momentum and place organizations at serious risk. For some, these cuts could mean fewer programs, layoffs, or closing the door to vital services in underserved communities, resulting in serious strain on community organizations and a direct correlation with reduced cultural and tourism spending; an essential lifeline in many of our communities.
AFP Nova Scotia Chapter calls on the Government of Nova Scotia to work collaboratively with the nonprofit sector to ensure stable, transparent, and sustainable funding frameworks moving forward. Meaningful consultation with community organizations must be part of any future changes that affect their ability to serve Nova Scotians. Our province’s nonprofits are not simply service providers; they are vital infrastructure in our communities. Ensuring their stability is an investment in the social, cultural, and economic wellbeing of Nova Scotia.
The AFP Nova Scotia Chapter Board stands with the organizations, staff, volunteers, and fundraisers working every day to strengthen our communities, and we urge the province to reconsider the remaining cuts that place this important work at risk.