Exporting Grants in Canada: Current Grants + Tips for Applying
Expanding into international markets through exporting can unlock significant growth opportunities for Canadian businesses. However, the costs and complexities of exporting can be a barrier, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Exporting grants provide financial support to help businesses navigate these challenges and establish a presence in global markets.
This guide explores the types of exporting grants available, eligibility criteria, and complementary financial tools to assist businesses in achieving their international trade objectives.
Key Takeaways
- Exporting grants offer non-repayable funding to help Canadian businesses enter and expand in international markets.
- Funding is provided by federal and provincial governments, as well as non-profit organizations.
- Eligibility typically requires a registered Canadian business, a clear export strategy, and alignment with industry or regional priorities.
- Grants can be used for activities such as market research, trade show participation, and developing export-ready products.
- Additional funding options include trade finance, equity investments, and tax incentives for export-related activities.
What is a Business Grant?
A business grant is a financial incentive provided by government bodies, non-profits, or private organizations to support specific business activities. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them an appealing option for entrepreneurs and established businesses.
For exporting, grants are designed to reduce the financial risks and costs associated with entering new markets. These grants help businesses with expenses like conducting market research, meeting regulatory requirements, or participating in international trade shows.
Grants vs Loans for Exporting
Both grants and loans can support exporting activities, but they have distinct differences:
| Aspect | Business Grants | Business Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Repayment | Do not require repayment | Require repayment, often with interest |
| Competitiveness | Often competitive and require detailed proposals | Easier to secure if creditworthiness is strong |
| Flexibility | Have specific eligibility criteria and usage restrictions | Offer greater flexibility in terms of usage |
| Speed of Access | Application process can be lengthy | Can be secured more quickly |
| Best For | Businesses meeting grant criteria and seeking cost-effective funding | Businesses needing immediate funds or more freedom |
Grants are ideal for businesses with a clear export strategy and the ability to meet eligibility requirements. Loans, on the other hand, are better suited for businesses needing immediate access to funds or those that do not qualify for grants.
Types of Exporting Grants
Federal Government Grants for Exporting
Federal exporting grants play a vital role in strengthening Canada’s position in international trade. These grants focus on helping businesses navigate the complexities of exporting by covering costs such as market research, export readiness training, and participation in trade missions. Market research grants enable businesses to assess potential opportunities in foreign markets, while export readiness training prepares businesses to meet regulatory and operational challenges.
Additionally, grants for trade missions allow businesses to build connections with international distributors, buyers, and partners. The federal government’s overarching goal is to support global expansion, increase export revenue, and contribute to national economic growth.
Provincial Government Grants for Exporting
Provincial government grants are tailored to address the unique economic needs of different regions. These grants aim to encourage local businesses to explore international markets by funding key export-related activities. For example, export marketing grants help businesses develop targeted strategies for entering foreign markets while funding for attending trade fairs and exhibitions provides opportunities to showcase products and services on a global stage.
Provinces also support initiatives to adapt products to international standards, such as compliance with safety, labeling, or quality regulations. By offering these grants, provincial governments seek to drive regional economic development and position businesses for sustainable export success.
Non-Profit Business Grants for Exporting
Non-profit organizations play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and access to exporting opportunities. These organizations offer grants designed to help underrepresented groups, such as women-led businesses, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and small startups, overcome barriers to international trade. Non-profit grants often fund activities like export readiness workshops, networking events, and market entry programs that foster connections with international buyers and distributors.
They may also provide funding for capacity-building initiatives, including training employees in export regulations and logistics. By supporting these activities, non-profits contribute to creating a diverse and equitable exporting ecosystem that benefits both businesses and communities.
Eligibility Criteria for Exporting Grants
Eligibility criteria for exporting grants generally include the following key components:
Being a Registered Business in Canada:
Presenting a Clear Export Strategy:
Meeting Industry-Specific Criteria:
Demonstrating Economic Impact:
Prioritization for Specific Groups:
Applying for Exporting Grants: Top 5 Tips
1. Research Thoroughly:
2. Develop a Strong Export Strategy:
3. Highlight Eligibility:
4. Show Economic Benefits:
5. Plan for Deadlines:
Alternatives to Exporting Grants
If grants are not an option, businesses can explore other funding and support mechanisms for exporting:
Trade Finance and Credit Insurance
Equity Investments
High-growth businesses can seek funding from venture capitalists or angel investors interested in supporting export activities. This option is suitable for businesses with innovative products or significant growth potential.
Tax Incentives
Programs such as export tax credits or deductions for international marketing expenses can reduce the financial burden of exporting. These incentives encourage businesses to invest in global expansion.
Crowdfunding and Partnerships
Exporting Grants – Current Grants Available
In the sections below you’ll find a sample of the federal and provincial grants currently available for exporting:
$20,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Translation component of Arts Abroad funds the translation of Canadian literary works or dramatic works for international presentation or publication.
No specific amount specified
Loan
Description:
To support the Canadian agriculture and food industry as tariffs are implemented and conflict in the Middle East brings price volatility on inputs, FCC has extended the Trade Disruption Customer Support Program until March 5, 2027.
Free four-session program for Alberta-based businesses (customized coaching, expert access and help developing an export plan); companies that do not meet the attendance commitment may have to pay the course price of $500
Accelerator, In-Kind Support
Description:
The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) provides the tools, connections, and knowledge needed to successfully enter and grow in new markets.
TAP is offered by Calgary Economic Development in conjunction with the Government of Alberta. The four-session program is free for Alberta-based businesses and focuses on accelerating your strategic development and grounding you in the export basics.
No fixed amount
Loan
Description:
The Large Enterprise Tariff Loan (LETL) facility is a new financing facility announced by the Government of Canada on March 21, 2025. Managed by the Canada Development Investment Corporation (CDEV) through its subsidiary, Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corporation (CEEFC), it provides financing support for large Canadian enterprises affected by actual and potential new tariffs and countermeasures and which face challenges accessing traditional sources of market financing.
No fixed amount
Tax credit
Description:
On March 21, 2025, the Government of Canada announced actions to support workers and businesses in response to tariffs.
To support businesses, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will:
a. Defer GST/HST remittances and corporate income tax payments from April 2 to June 30, 2025
b. Waive interest on GST/HST and T2 instalment and arrears payments that are required to be paid between April 2 and June 30, 2025
c. Provide interest relief on existing GST/HST and T2 balances between April 2 and June 30, 2025
You do not need to provide proof of hardship from or impact of tariffs. The CRA will automatically grant relief on your T2 and GST/HST accounts during the relief period.
Note: Interest will resume starting July 1, 2025.
Working capital loan of up to $500,000 at a fixed interest rate of 4% per annum, 7-year term with principal payments deferred for 24 months; no application fee
Loan
Description:
A financing program has been developed to provide working capital financing to assist Prince Edward Island businesses impacted by the new export tariffs implemented by the United States of America (the “Tariffs”), ensuring they can maintain operations, preserve jobs, and invest in alternative supply chain strategies. This new loan program will assist qualifying companies to maintain normal business operations during these unprecedented times.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
Strategic assistance to help tariff impacted businesses improve productivity, become more competitive, increase exports, and grow on a national and international scale. Businesses can receive support for costs associated with:
– Professional services for businesses entering new export markets (i.e. market research, regulatory guidance, trade compliance consulting).
– Market adaptation strategies, diversification support, and assistance in developing new supply chain solutions.
– Contingency planning related to trade and supply chain disruptions.
Up to a maximum of $15,000 per applicant, based on scope and deliverables; projects cost-shared to a maximum of 50/50 with applicants
Grant
Description:
This program focuses on assisting companies to overcome a specific food safety requirement or obstacle that is preventing them from entering a new market, or in keeping markets open when requirements change.
Up to 15% of eligible project costs; loans up to 15% to a maximum of $5 million, interest free during the project period (up to four years), with up to 30% of the loan (to a maximum of $500,000) forgivable; grants only in specific circumstances, up to 15% to a maximum of $500,000 for small companies in rural communities or $1.5 million for strategic projects
Grant, Loan
Description:
The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) Stream will provide financial support to advanced manufacturing companies with a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises across Ontario.
Up to $5 million per stream, for a maximum total of $10 million per support program
Loan
Description:
Get up to $5 million to help you counter the effects of tariffs on Canadian exports to the U.S. by preserving cash flow, diversifying your market or buying equipment.1
This program provides financing that can help you maintain operations, seize new opportunities, invest in productivity and adapt to a changing business environment while protecting your cash flow.
No funding involved
In-Kind Support
Description:
Explore export opportunities beyond the Maritimes
Our tailored support allows you to efficiently enter, grow, and diversify your export presence without feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of the market.
Grants or loans in the range of 10-20% of eligible costs to a maximum of $5 million for most eligible businesses; up to 75% of eligible project costs (to a maximum of $5 million) for projects demonstrating exceptional benefits to Ontario; up to 30% of a loan (to a maximum of $1.5 million) may be forgiven
Grant, Loan
Description:
The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) provides financial support to help businesses near-term investments so they can serve more interprovincial customers, develop new markets and re-shore critical supply chains in the face of U.S. tariffs. With a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the program will help businesses, build local capacity, enhance trade resiliency, and make the necessary investments to successfully expand into new markets.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
With support from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), Canadian small and medium‑sized enterprises can turn their innovations into market-ready products and services.
NRC IRAP provides funding to support the research and development of innovative, technology-driven products and services, and other innovation activities to help your business grow, create jobs, and compete globally.
Highly subsidized expert business development support: Essentials Package valued at $13,000.00 with a company contribution of $1,250.00; Comprehensive Package valued at $26,000.00 with a company contribution of $2,500.00
In-Kind Support
Description:
The Market Entry Development Program (MEDP) helps Atlantic Canadian businesses confidently enter global markets by providing expert guidance, strategic insights, and access to key industry connections.
Designed to reduce risk and accelerate growth, the program connects companies with experienced international trade consultants who offer tailored market intelligence and hands-on business development support.
$10,000
Grant
Description:
The purpose of the Market Access Fund is to support Manitoba artists and music industry professionals in growing their business activities in export markets through showcases at music industry conferences and showcase festivals, targeted and confirmed business meetings, and collaborative songwriting trips.
$30,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Market Development program is designed to advance the agriculture, agri-food and agri-product sector’s innovation and business capacity to maintain existing markets and capture emerging market opportunities. The program will provide financial assistance to eligible recipients for market development activities that enhance the export capacity of individual businesses and improve overall domestic and international access for the sector.
No specific amount specified
In-Kind Support
Description:
Whether you are curious about export or you have begun to do business internationally, our Export Consultant can provide assistance. By breaking exporting into steps, we simplify and clarify the process of taking your product or service to the global stage.
No fixed amount
Loan, Investment
Description:
FinDev Canada offers financial solutions such as debt and equity to clients operating in developing countries that demonstrate sustainable social and economic benefits for local communities.
Contribution covering up to 75% of eligible project-related costs (combined government assistance), to a maximum of $2.5 million per application
Grant
Description:
The Export-Ready Stream (ERS) of the Creative Export Canada (CEC) program offers funding through contributions (not loans) for export-ready projects that generate export revenues and help Canadian creative industries reach more people around the world.
Up to 60% of pre-determined eligible costs for approved Global Trade Services trade activities; up to 75% of pre-determined eligible costs, to a maximum Innovation PEI contribution of $3,000, for incoming buyers; combined non-repayable government funding cannot exceed 75 per cent of eligible costs
Grant
Description:
Export Trade Assistance provides support to Prince Edward Island exporting businesses to explore new global opportunities. Support may be available to participate in Innovation PEI’s Global Trade Services coordinated trade activities, focused on international and domestic exporting, or to bring buyers and business partners to Prince Edward Island to strengthen business relationships or close sales.
$20,000
Rebate
Description:
Export Development program provides reimbursement to eligible Manitoba companies participating in a tradeshow or mission outside the province. This will assist companies to enter new markets, and provide opportunities for education, market assessments, developing relationships, contacts and sales.
No funding involved
In-Kind Support
Description:
Export Navigator is a program that helps B.C. businesses diversify and grow by guiding them through the export process. Participating businesses are paired with community-based advisors who provide free support and ongoing guidance. We offer specialized services for businesses owned by Indigenous Peoples.
$32,000
Grant
Description:
The Export Enhancement and Diversification Fund helps Prince Edward Island exporters and export-ready businesses with marketing and trade costs to execute export plans and activities to explore new global export opportunities to diversify and enhance their business.
To support our Island businesses that may face significant challenges resulting from the implementation of tariffs by the USA, Innovation PEI is providing enhanced support for these activities from March 4, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
Grants and contributions of up to a maximum of $90,000 per fiscal year; total assistance from the Export Development Stream and other levels of government cannot exceed 75% of the same eligible project-related costs
Grant
Description:
The Export Development Stream (EDS) of the Creative Export Canada (CEC) program offers funding in the form of grants and contributions for:
1. new and early-stage exporters to build capacity and expand into international markets
2. seasoned exporters to expand into new international markets and build business networks
Up to a maximum of $15,000 CAD of eligible costs per business, per fiscal year, increased by $10,000 (to $25,000 CAD) for eligible companies in Nova Scotia’s six priority sectors with more than $100,000 in revenue actively entering new export markets; total government funding no more than 50% of the total eligible project cost
Grant
Description:
EDP is for Nova Scotia businesses looking to:
1. increase sales outside Nova Scotia
2. improve competitiveness
3. positively impact the Nova Scotia economy
EDP provides financial incentives to offset the cost of projects that assist a business’s ability to overcome barriers to export growth.
$90,000.00
Grant
Description:
The Export Assistance Program helps finance the international distribution of Canadian feature films, including the promotional campaign for theatrical release.
No fixed amount
Insurance, Loan Guarantee
Description:
The EDC Trade Impact Program will facilitate an additional $5 billion over two years in support for eligible companies across a range of products to help you navigate economic challenges.
No fixed amount
Loan Guarantee
Description:
The Trade Expansion Lending Program (TELP) is a guarantee that helps you access more working capital from your financial institution. EDC shares the risk with your lender by guaranteeing part of your loan or line of credit, allowing them to offer the credit conditions you need to grow.
No fixed amount
Loan
Description:
EDC’s structured and project finance solutions help Canadian exporters and investors take on capital-intensive projects and complex transactions. From infrastructure and energy to renewables and resources, we support deals that drive sustainable growth—for Canada and the world.
Direct equity investment of $5 million to $25+ million, with potential follow-on funding; minority ownership up to 25%
Investment
Description:
EDC Investments is a long-term investment program with over $4 billion in capital. We support high-growth Canadian exporters expanding across global markets.
Direct equity investment of $5 million to $25+ million, with potential follow-on funding; minority ownership up to 25%
Investment
Description:
EDC Investments is a long-term investment program with over $4 billion in capital. We support high-growth Canadian exporters expanding across global markets.
Up to 100% coverage on your FX contract for your financial institution, so additional collateral is no longer required
Loan Guarantee
Description:
EDC’s Foreign Exchange Facility Guarantee (FXG) can cover your collateral requirements on foreign exchange (FX) contracts, helping you manage fluctuating currency rates without tying up your cash.
Loan guarantee to your financial institution of up to US$25 million (total EGP coverage capped at US$25 million); the guaranteed percentage depends on the types of assets financed and the size of the facility
Loan Guarantee
Description:
The Export Guarantee Program (EGP) provides guarantees of up to US$25 million to your financial institution so they can extend your access to working capital.
Direct loans that typically start at $1 million, structured to match your business needs, priced in line with commercial market rates
Loan, Loan Guarantee
Description:
EDC provides direct loans to help mid-sized and large Canadian exporters scale production, invest in new markets and seize global opportunities.
Up to $10 million in financing through a financial partner; $10-$25 million in financing either directly from EDC or through a financial partner
Loan, Loan Guarantee
Description:
EDC’s buyer financing helps you close more deals by giving your international customers access to the capital they need through a loan or guarantee. The program offers:
No fixed amount
Loan Guarantee
Description:
Account Performance Security Guarantee (APSG) is the only solution in Canada that gives your financial institution a 100% guarantee for standby letters of credit. This frees up your cash or credit line to help grow your business.
No fixed amount
Rebate
Description:
The Drawback Program can help Canadian companies compete in export markets by removing the domestic duty impact from their commercial goods. The program grants a drawback (refund) of duties that were paid on imported goods if:
– the goods are eventually exported in the same condition, or
– the goods are consumed or expended through a manufacturing process and eventually exported
Additionally, Canadian companies may have commercial goods that are eligible for drawbacks under the Obsolete or Surplus Goods Program. The purpose of this program is to help Canadian companies compete internationally by reducing the export costs on valueless goods that will not enter the domestic market.
No fixed amount
Subsidy
Description:
The Duties Relief Program from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) allows qualified companies to import commercial goods without paying duties, as long as those goods are eventually exported. As part of the program, companies can manufacture or use the commercial goods in a limited manner before export.
Rebate to a maximum of 50% up to $30,000 annually toward eligible costs (annual maximum applies to any combination of both the CCR and SBR program); projects must have a minimum budget of $2,000 and the applicant must contribute a minimum 25% of the eligible project budget
Rebate
Description:
The Competitiveness Consulting Rebate program provides a rebate to small and medium sized businesses in eligible industries for customized consulting services.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
Enhance the long-term sustainability of export-intensive companies by addressing competitiveness gaps, stabilizing operations and employment, and stimulating investment and growth. The financial assistance is intended to help limit eroding competitiveness driven by external cost controls, and support higher value strategic investments into productivity leading to longer-term sustainability of the company.
No specific amount specified
In-Kind Support
Description:
CCC empower Canadian exporters by providing unparalleled access to foreign government buyers, opening doors for international business expansion. Our experience and expertise will help you navigate the complexities of foreign government procurement markets with more confidence, less risk and stronger competitive differentiation.
We offer support for a range of sectors, with a strong focus on solutions for the U.S. Department of Defence (U.S. DoD) and foreign governments looking to procure solutions in aerospace, defence, construction and infrastructure, clean technologies, and Information and communications technology (ICT).
$50,000
Grant
Description:
The CanExport SMEs program of Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service is designed to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to export Canadian goods and services to new international markets.
By sharing the costs of certain international business development activities and thereby reducing risk associated with entering new markets, the program enhances the export diversification efforts of Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises. By helping businesses to increase and diversify their exports, the program contributes to the expansion and growth in Canada of those businesses. The program supports Canadian companies that have meaningful economic ties to Canada, the potential to contribute significantly to Canada’s economy, and the capacity and commitment to expand globally.
Up to 75% of eligible costs to a maximum of $37,500 in funding per project (maximum budget of $50,000); an organization may receive a maximum of $100,000 in CanExport Innovation funding within any 12-month period
Grant
Description:
Innovators from Canadian organizations may access funding to assist with research and development (R&D) for a single technology. We cover up to 75% of costs to pursue and sign collaborative R&D agreements with international partners.
Cost-shared 50% by the applicant and 50% by the program, on up to $100,000 CAD in total project costs; maximum of $99,999 per company per government fiscal year; no funding minimum
Grant
Description:
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can apply for funding to cover up to 50% of costs related to participation in select trade missions and delegations led by Global Affairs Canada’s (GAC) Trade Commissioner Service (TCS).
No fixed amount
Rebate
Description:
Canada tariff remission process provides eligible businesses exceptional relief from the tariffs imposed as part of Canada’s response. The Government of Canada is outlining a framework and process for how it will consider remission requests for the tariffs on products from the United States (U.S.) that apply beginning on March 4, 2025. Under specific circumstances, remission allows for relief from the payment of tariffs, or the refund of tariffs already paid.
Should the government decide to impose additional tariffs on other goods, the remission process would also be available for those goods, with further details provided at that time
No funding involved
In-Kind Support
Description:
Canada Brand helps global consumers recognize Canadian food and beverage products and showcases the diverse range of products from our varied landscape from coast to coast to coast.
Equity investments from $3M to $45M, acquiring ownership stakes up to 49%, for growth capital or an ownership transition
Investment
Description:
We invest equity capital in Canadian mid-market growth businesses as a minority investor. In partnership with management teams and stakeholders, we work to accelerate growth and to create the next generation of national and global champions.
$225,000
Grant
Description:
The BC Agriculture and Food Export Program is funded under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership – a five-year (2023 to 2028) investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow the agriculture and food sector. The program aims to increase sales, reduce market risk, and enhance long-term sustainability for B.C.’s agriculture, food and beverage exporters by providing cost-shared funding to undertake market development activities outside of B.C. that enable sector businesses and associations to maintain, expand and/or diversify export markets.
No fixed amount
Rebate
Description:
Qualifying businesses can get tariff exemptions or reductions by meeting the rules of origin and completing a certificate of origin under some trade agreements.
Up to $15,000 in total grant funding per program year (April 1 to March 31); formal event attendance supported at up to 50% of receipted base registration fees, plus per diem allowances to offset flight costs and accommodations; limit of 2 travellers per mission
Grant
Description:
The Alberta Export Expansion Program (AEEP) supports Alberta’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), industry associations, Indigenous organizations, economic development organizations and other non-profit organizations, promoting Alberta exports through international travel to formal outbound trade events.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Agritech Concierge Program supports agritech companies to grow and scale their businesses, building on the success of British Columbia.’s Agritech Grant Program and the recommendations of the 2020 Food Security Task Force Report.
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