TechNL pushes Nova Scotia to cut red tape and improve tax incentives
Oct 26, 2026 · Summarized by Fundy Tech from BetaKit
TechNL says Newfoundland and Labrador can grow its tech sector by reducing red tape, changing procurement and improving tax incentives. Premier Tony Wakeham says he is open to ideas.
Key points
- TechNL says the province needs less paperwork and faster reviews.
- The group wants more local procurement from government buyers.
- Wakeham says he is open to tax changes and a possible AI strategy.
The full story
TechNL says Newfoundland and Labrador has a growing tech sector, helped by the 2020 Nasdaq purchase of Verafin and the rise of companies like Spellbook and CoLab Software. The organization, which has roughly 200 members, is now led by serial entrepreneur Andrea King, who became CEO in August. TechNL is a government-funded innovation nonprofit that also runs skills training, graduate transition programming and other events.
King told BetaKit that the sector’s top priorities are reducing red tape and speeding up reviews. She said companies should not have to repeat duplicate paperwork when applying for funding or grants across several provincial and federal organisations. She also called for procurement reform so the province buys more from local companies.
Premier Tony Wakeham, who took office a year ago, appeared open to those ideas during a TechNL summit conversation. He said his government wants to create new opportunities and make the province better for investment, innovation and growth. On taxes, King suggested raising the North Avalon investment tax credit rate from 20 per cent to match Nova Scotia’s 35-per-cent innovation tax credit. Wakeham said he is open to anything that improves business and puts more money back into people’s pockets.
Wakeham also hinted that the province is working on an AI strategy. King said attracting skilled workers is one of the biggest issues, while Wakeham said there are challenges tied to lower federal immigration targets. CoLab chief strategy officer Taylor Young said talent retention has not been a major problem for his company.
Why it matters
These changes could affect how quickly small tech firms win grants, contracts and customers in Newfoundland and Labrador. They could also shape hiring, investment and where new companies choose to grow.
Who’s affected: Newfoundland and Labrador tech companies and workers
What’s next
Wakeham said the province is still working through an AI strategy. The government and TechNL may continue discussions on red tape, procurement and tax changes.
What to do
- Watch for provincial policy changes affecting grants and procurement.
- If you run a local tech firm, follow TechNL’s advocacy updates.
- Track any moves on tax credits or an AI strategy.
Original reporting
Not sure if this affects you?
Fundy Tech helps businesses and households across Atlantic Canada stay patched, protected and up to speed. Tell us what you’re running and we’ll tell you straight whether you need to act.