New Dalhousie Initiative Builds Momentum for Atlantic Gateway

New Dalhousie Initiative Builds Momentum for Atlantic Gateway
(Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)

Dalhousie University is launching an exciting and unique Atlantic Gateway initiative through its new Centre for International Trade and Transportation.
Dalhousie’s “Atlantic Gateway Initiative” is a two-year partnership between the Centre for International Trade and Transportation, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Province of Nova Scotia. The province has invested $50,000 and ACOA has invested $115,000 in the two- year pilot project.

“We know the Atlantic Gateway will play a vital role in the economic success of our region," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "The potential benefits for Nova Scotia are endless. This initiative is the next step as we move to take advantage of the opportunities the Atlantic Gateway will provide. It's wonderful to see Dalhousie University, and the federal and provincial governments working toward this common goal.”

“Our government is pleased to be working with provinces and universities to develop education and research programs that support and advance the country’s gateways and corridors,” said Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of ACOA. “Combined with our other trade corridors, the Atlantic Gateway is a vital link in the international trade system, linking North America with the world.”

The Centre for International Trade and Transportation was originally created as the Centre for International Business Studies in 1975. In late 2007, Dalhousie decided to rename and refocus the Centre, making the Atlantic Gateway Initiative its first major project.

"The Atlantic region is a key national gateway for people and products and it has been so since the pre-Confederation era," said Greg Hebb, director of the Dalhousie Centre for International Trade and Transportation. "Our centre at Dalhousie is uniquely positioned to grow and to transfer the skills, knowledge and context required for this historic role. We welcome the support and guidance of ACOA and the province of Nova Scotia."

By providing a combination of research and educational support, the goal of the Initiative is to bring the academic community into the development of the Atlantic Gateway strategy. The pilot will see expanded course offerings, working papers, and an international conference.

A steering committee, with representatives from the three partners and the academic and private sectors, will provide input during the two-year pilot.
Nova Scotia’s potential as an international gateway includes exponential growth in container traffic, and significant growth opportunities in international air passenger and cargo traffic handling, and the cruise ship industry.