Projects led by four key organizations will strengthen community spaces, attract visitors and support economic growth
June 30, 2026 · Saint John, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Tourism, culture, and community initiatives are key drivers of Atlantic Canada’s economy, supporting businesses, creating jobs, and drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. Strategic investments in community spaces and high-profile events strengthen regional appeal, foster vibrant cultural experiences, and generate lasting economic and social benefits for communities and residents alike.
Today, the Honourable Wayne Long, Secretary of State (Canada Revenue Agency and
Financial Institutions), and Member of Parliament for Saint John – Kennebecasis, announced Government of Canada investments totaling more than $3 million dollars through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) to support four organizations in Saint John.These investments will support key infrastructure improvements and major sporting events that showcase Saint John’s unique assets and energy. Together, they will enhance public spaces, attract visitors, create jobs, and generate lasting economic and social benefits, further strengthening the city’s vitality and appeal as a destination for residents and visitors alike.
Projects are being supported through the following organizations:
· New Brunswick Museum
· City of Saint John
· Envision Saint John
· Imperial Theatre
For a full list of projects, please see the backgrounder.
Today’s announcement reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting inclusive growth and resilient communities by investing in projects that bring people together, celebrate local identity, and create opportunities for shared experiences. By investing in cultural and community initiatives, the federal government is helping drive economic growth and build vibrant places to live, work, and visit.
This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
Also on hand was Kate Wilcott, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Saint John West – Lancaster on behalf of the Honourable Gilles LePage, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation (RDC), who announced provincial funding for the Imperial Theatre.
Quotes
“When we invest in tourism, culture and infrastructure, we’re investing in Atlantic Canada's future – driving growth, creating opportunity, and putting this region on the map.”
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“Great communities don’t happen by accident—they’re built through bold investments in the places that inspire us, bring us together, and tell our story. Today’s announcement reflects our confidence in Saint John and New Brunswick. By investing in world-class cultural institutions, vibrant community spaces, and events that attract visitors from around the world, we’re creating opportunity today while building a stronger, more prosperous future for generations to come.”
- The Honourable Wayne Long, Secretary of State (Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions) and Member of Parliament for Saint John – Kennebecasis
“Our government remains committed to investing in what matters to New Brunswick residents, and we know that the Imperial Theatre matters to the residents of Saint John and the entire region. With this funding, the theatre can continue to make upgrades that will enhance the experience, and we are pleased to support the project.”
- Kate Wilcott, MLA for Saint John West-Lancaster on behalf of the Honourable Gilles LePage, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation (RDC)
“This investment marks another important step in the revitalization of the New Brunswick Museum. It will help advance the planning and preparatory work needed to create a modern, inclusive, and accessible museum that connects people with New Brunswick's rich natural and cultural heritage while strengthening Saint John's role as a cultural tourism destination. We are grateful to the Government of Canada and ACOA for their support of this transformative project.”
- Tracy Clinch, Board Chair, New Brunswick Museum
“The Canada Games Aquatic Centre has served our community well since 1985. As New Brunswick prepares for the 2029 Canada Summer Games, Saint John and regional partners are excited to join our federal and provincial counterparts to showcase the state-of-the-art upgrades to the Centre that reflect the standards of the competition. This will be a legacy
project for the region, and we thank the federal and provincial governments for their investment in securing the Canada Summer Games for all New Brunswickers.”
- Mayor Donna Noade Reardon, City of Saint John
"The federal investment in the 2027 BKT Men's World Curling Championship not only enhances our capacity to deliver a world-class event and drive meaningful economic impact but also creates unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike. We are grateful for the Government of Canada, through ACOA’s commitment and look forward to welcoming fans from around the world to the Saint John region in 2027."
- Andrew Beckett, CEO, Envision Saint John
“Imperial Theatre’s Elevate Your Experience Project marks an important step forward in enhancing the patron experience and improving accessibility throughout the theatre. The Federal and Provincial investments into phase one of this project will create an immersive sound and enhance the production experience for our patrons. We are so grateful that they share our vision and commitment to enrich, inspire and engage the community through the performing arts."
- Angela Campbell, Executive Director, Imperial Theatre
Quick facts
For more than 180 years, the New Brunswick Museum has been Canada’s oldest continuing museum and has been entrusted with preserving New Brunswick’s natural and cultural heritage.
Nestled on the powerful Bay of Fundy, the City of Saint John is a beautiful, historic, and vibrant urban city – surrounded by breathtaking nature experiences. Whether you live in or visit Canada’s first incorporated city, you’re sure to be caught up in its gorgeous historic architecture, eclectic shops and restaurants, and rich arts and culture experiences.
Envision Saint John is the Saint John region’s lead economic development and visitor attraction agency, tasked with sustainably growing the area’s economy and population.
Imperial Theatre is Saint John’s premier performing arts centre, presenting over 160 performances each year. The theatre first opened in 1913, and is now a National Historic Site of Canada, known as one of the country’s most beautifully restored historic theatres.
Support for these projects was provided through ACOA’s Business Development Program (BDP) and the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
Tourism in New Brunswick generated about $1.8 billion in revenue in 2025, with over 670,000 visitors by late summer, reflecting strong year-over-year growth.
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