(TheChronicleHerald) - Grape growers and members of the wine industry had big smiles Thursday.

The Nova Scotia government announced the first $3.5 million of a $12-million investment to grow the sector over the next four years.

“By investing in and working with this sector we will create more jobs here in Nova Scotia,” said agriculture minister Keith Colwell in a news release. He was joined by Stewart Creaser of Avondale Sky Winery, Suzanne Corkum of Sainte-Famille Wines, Gillian Mainguy of the Wine Association of Nova Scotia and other industry members on Thursday at Bishop’s Cellar in Halifax.

“It will mean more work, more exports, and more economic growth,” said Colwell. “We will expand our sector's reach nationally and internationally.”

Separately, MLA Keith Irving was in the valley to announce details of the Vineyard and Wineries program at Domaine de Grand Pré winery in Grand Pré.

“This commitment is exactly what we need to develop Nova Scotia as the third largest wine region in Canada,” said John McLarty of Planter's Ridge Winery.

“It not only supports the industry but encourages tourism and will drive the growth our rural regions need.”

The funding supports research, quality standards and export market development by focusing on increasing grape crops, identifying and developing new markets outside of the province supported by promotional activities, product development, boutique retail and foodservice and trade show events.

The agriculture department wants to partner with local colleges and universities on research and development related to site selection, environmental factors, storage, production and quality standards.