Expanding your business internationally can be a game-changer, but it requires significant investment. Fortunately, the Canadian government offers numerous export grants and trade funding programs to help businesses enter new markets and grow globally.
CanExport Program
The CanExport program is one of Canada's flagship export funding initiatives, providing financial support to help businesses develop and diversify their export markets:
- Funding up to $75,000 per project
- Supports market development activities including trade shows, market research, and business development trips
- Available to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Covers up to 50% of eligible project costs
This program is ideal for businesses ready to explore new international markets but need financial support to get started.
Trade Accelerator Program (TAP)
The Trade Accelerator Program helps businesses develop comprehensive export strategies:
- Free intensive workshops and one-on-one coaching
- Access to trade experts and mentors
- Market research and analysis support
- Networking opportunities with other exporters
- Available in major cities across Canada
TAP is perfect for businesses that are new to exporting or looking to expand into additional markets.
CanExport SMEs
Specifically designed for small and medium-sized enterprises, CanExport SMEs provides:
- Funding for export market development activities
- Support for attending trade shows and missions
- Market research and analysis funding
- Business development and partnership activities
- Up to $50,000 in funding per project
Export Development Canada (EDC) Programs
EDC offers various programs to support Canadian exporters:
- Export Guarantee Program: Provides guarantees to help businesses secure financing
- Export Credit Insurance: Protects against non-payment from international customers
- Working Capital Solutions: Helps finance export-related activities
- Foreign Exchange Solutions: Manages currency risk in international transactions
Regional Trade Programs
Various regional development agencies offer trade-specific programs:
- ACOA Trade Programs: Atlantic Canada export support
- FedDev Ontario Trade: Ontario-focused export initiatives
- Western Diversification Trade: Programs for Western Canada
- CanNor Trade Support: Northern Canada export assistance
Provincial Export Grants
Many provinces offer additional export support:
- Ontario's Export Market Access Program
- Quebec's export assistance programs
- Alberta's export development initiatives
- British Columbia's trade programs
Eligible Export Activities
Export grants typically cover activities such as:
- Attending international trade shows and exhibitions
- Conducting market research and analysis
- Business development trips to target markets
- Product adaptation for international markets
- Marketing and promotional materials
- Legal and regulatory compliance
- Certification and standards compliance
- Partnership development and networking
Eligibility Requirements
Common eligibility criteria for export grants include:
- Canadian-owned and operated business
- Established business operations (typically 1+ years)
- Demonstrated export potential or existing export activity
- Clear export market development plan
- Financial capacity to contribute to project costs
- Compliance with all regulatory requirements
How to Apply
To maximize your chances of success:
- Research Programs: Identify which export programs align with your goals
- Develop Export Strategy: Create a clear plan for entering new markets
- Prepare Documentation: Gather business plans, financial statements, and market research
- Submit Application: Complete all required forms and supporting documents
- Follow Up: Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
Maximizing Export Grant Benefits
To get the most from export funding:
- Start with market research to identify the best opportunities
- Attend trade shows in your target markets
- Build relationships with local partners and distributors
- Understand cultural and regulatory differences
- Invest in professional translation and localization
- Develop a comprehensive export marketing strategy
Common Export Challenges
Export grants can help address common challenges:
- Market Entry Costs: Grants help cover initial market development expenses
- Currency Risk: EDC programs help manage foreign exchange risk
- Payment Risk: Export credit insurance protects against non-payment
- Regulatory Compliance: Funding can support certification and compliance activities
- Market Knowledge: Programs provide access to market research and expertise
Success Stories
Many Canadian businesses have successfully used export grants to:
- Enter new international markets
- Increase export sales significantly
- Develop strategic partnerships abroad
- Build brand recognition internationally
- Create jobs and economic growth at home
Additional Resources
Beyond direct funding, exporters can access:
- Trade commissioners in target markets
- Market intelligence and research reports
- Networking events and trade missions
- Export training and education programs
- Legal and regulatory guidance
Export grants and trade funding programs provide essential support for Canadian businesses looking to expand internationally. By taking advantage of these programs, businesses can reduce the risks and costs associated with entering new markets while accelerating their global growth.