N.S. announces clean energy funding for new Black business hub
The Nova Scotia government has recently announced a significant investment in a new facility for African Nova Scotian businesses that will prioritize the use of clean energy. Twila Grosse, the minister of African Nova Scotian affairs, disclosed that over $100,000 has been allocated to Akoma Holdings for the development of this space in Cherry Brook near Kinney Place, a Black business and community hub that was established in 2022.
The funding for this initiative is being provided through the sustainable communities challenge fund, which aims to support community initiatives focused on reducing or eliminating greenhouse gas emissions. Veronica Marsman, the property manager of Akoma, highlighted in an interview that ever since Kinney Place was repurposed from the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children in 2022, there has been a growing demand from other Black and African Nova Scotian businesses for operational space.
Marsman mentioned that the current Kinney Place is already at full capacity with businesses, prompting the need for a second business hub to accommodate the increasing interest from organizations and businesses. The upcoming facility will feature an “Afrocentric flair” and will serve as a centralized space for the neighboring historic Black communities.
In terms of energy efficiency, the government funding will be utilized to explore and implement the latest clean energy technologies to ensure the facility operates in an environmentally sustainable manner. Marsman expressed optimism about the potential of creating one of the most energy-efficient buildings in the Black community.
The total cost for the construction of the new facility is estimated to be around $7 million, and Akoma is actively seeking additional funding opportunities to support the project. The goal is to commence construction on the facility during the summer months.
While no official tenants have been confirmed yet, the Africadian Empowerment Academy has shown interest in occupying space within the new facility. Formerly known as the East Preston Empowerment Academy, Africadian is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education and skill development programs for individuals of African descent. Omolara Ogunbosi, the executive director of Africadian, emphasized the need for expanded operational space to accommodate the organization’s growth and increasing staff.
Overall, the investment in this new facility for African Nova Scotian businesses signifies a significant step towards fostering economic development and sustainability within the Black community. With a focus on clean energy and community empowerment, this initiative has the potential to create a positive impact for businesses and organizations operating in the region.
