Cities
Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia and the economic, educational, and cultural heart of Atlantic Canada. Known for its rich history and coastal beauty, it’s a thriving hub for students, immigrants, professionals, and businesses alike.
A leading research university with strong programs in medicine, law, engineering, and ocean sciences.
One of Canada’s oldest independent art schools.
Known for programs in teaching, communication, and women’s studies.
Offers liberal arts and journalism programs with a focus on critical thinking and writing.
Offers renowned business, science, and arts programs with a strong focus on international education.
Provides career-focused programs in trades, technology, health, and business.
Founded in 1749, Halifax has deep military, naval, and immigration roots. The city played a strategic role during both World Wars and is also known for the Halifax Explosion of 1917, one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. Its historic waterfront, Citadel Hill, and Victorian-era buildings reflect its British colonial heritage.
Halifax has a population of approximately 480,000 (2025 estimate), making it the largest urban centre in Atlantic Canada. It boasts a young, educated, and diverse population, with a growing number of international students and immigrants contributing to its multicultural fabric.
Halifax is increasingly becoming a destination of choice for newcomers. It welcomes thousands of immigrants each year through:
►Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
►Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
►Student-to-PR pathways
Halifax is a major economic centre with strengths in:
► Finance & Insurance
► Technology & IT
► Ocean and Marine industries
► Tourism & Hospitality
► Education & Healthcare
It offers a competitive business environment with access to North American, European, and global markets through the Port of Halifax, one of the deepest ports in the world.
Several major companies and multinational corporations operate in Halifax, such as:
► IBM Canada
► TD Canada Trust
► Manulife
► CGI Group
► Volta Labs (Startup Hub)
► Irving Shipbuilding
► Nova Scotia Power (Emera)
The city also has a booming start-up ecosystem, supported by accelerators like Innovacorp and Volta.
Halifax supports a vibrant sports culture:
Outdoor:
► Soccer, rugby, and baseball leagues
► Sailing and rowing events
► Skating and ice hockey in winter
Indoor:
► Basketball (home to the Halifax Hurricanes)
► Badminton, squash, indoor soccer facilities
► Dalplex and Canada Games Centre for public and university-level sports
Sydney, the largest city on Cape Breton Island, is a historic and cultural hub known for its strong industrial and maritime heritage. The city is recognized for its natural beauty, diverse community, and evolving economy.
Sydney is home to Cape Breton University (CBU), which offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in business, arts, engineering, and health sciences. CBU focuses on experiential learning and community engagement, providing students with real-world skills and practical knowledge.
Sydney’s history is deeply rooted in coal mining and steel production, which served as the backbone of its economy during the 19th and 20th centuries. It was also an important port and a naval operations center during World War II. Today, Sydney is well-known for preserving its heritage and hosting vibrant cultural festivals.
Sydney has a population of approximately 30,000 to 35,000. The community is tight-knit and multicultural, with a gradually increasing number of immigrants. The demographic includes a good balance of youth and senior citizens.
Sydney is becoming an emerging destination for new immigrants, supported by local government and community organizations offering various integration programs. While the immigrant population is still relatively small, it is steadily increasing, largely due to international students and skilled workers.
Sydney’s economy is currently diversifying, with growth in areas like:
► Renewable energy projects
► Tourism and hospitality
► Health care services
► Education (with CBU playing a significant role)
►Small-scale manufacturing and local businesses
There are ongoing economic development initiatives aimed at attracting new industries.
Key employers in Sydney include:
► Cape Breton University
► Health care institutions like Cape Breton Regional Hospital
► Renewable energy companies
► Local SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) in manufacturing and services
There are also some regional offices and branches of multinational companies, though the economy remains largely focused on local and regional operations.
Sydney has an active sports culture:
Outdoor:
► Soccer and baseball leagues
► Ice hockey and skating during winter
► Nearby golf courses
Indoor:
► Facilities for basketball, volleyball, and badminton
► Indoor sports events at the Cape Breton Civic Centre
► Fitness centers and recreational programs for all age groups
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