New Glasgow is at the heart of a productive centre for business, retail, manufacturing and industry. As the commercial service centre of Pictou County and Northeastern Nova Scotia, the town and region offer business investors a strategic location within Atlantic Canada and a skilled workforce.

New Glasgow is a thriving combination of small, mid-size and large businesses as well as ample opportunities for those in professions and the skilled trades. It is home to nationally chartered banks, real estate companies, insurance companies, business services and more. Retail shops and eating establishments are located within the downtown as well as the region's radio station. Big box stores and two major shopping centres located on Westville Road and East River Road commercial districts underscore the importance of New Glasgow to an extended regional market. There are several commercial services and business districts in the town, including New Scotland Development Inc.’s East River Business Park.

The Town of New Glasgow and the County of Pictou share a Business Development Officer. The Business Development Officer provides support in the delivery and coordination of investment attraction and business development efforts to help grow commercial and residential assessment. The Business Development Officer engages in tenant recruitment and land development projects for East River Business Park on behalf of New Scotland Business Development Inc.

New Scotland Development Inc. is a municipal corporation owned by the Town of New Glasgow and the Municipality of the County of Pictou whose purpose is to facilitate business development and economic growth opportunities through the sale of business park lands within the region of Pictou County.