ACOA works in partnership with Atlantic Canadians to improve the economy of communities in the region and enhance the region's competitiveness. Working with partners in government, the private sector, academia and non-governmental organizations, ACOA seeks to advance economic opportunities and innovation in order to serve the needs of businesses, organizations, individuals and communities. This work addresses the Agency's mandate "to increase opportunity for economic development in Atlantic Canada and, more particularly, to enhance the growth of earned incomes and employment opportunities in that region."

ACOA delivers and administers programs under the following three strategic outcomes.

Competitive and sustainable Atlantic enterprises,with emphasis on those of small and medium size, the major program activity for this strategic outcome is fostering the development of institutions and enterprises.

Dynamic and sustainable communities for Atlantic Canada, the major program activities for this strategic outcome are fostering the economic development of Atlantic Canadian communities, special adjustment measures, and infrastructure programming.

Policies and programs that strengthen the Atlantic economy, the major program activities for this third strategic outcome are policy, advocacy and coordination.