| Administered by | Global Affairs Canada — Trade Commissioner Service |
|---|---|
| Funding amount | Up to $50,000 per project, covering 50 % of eligible expenses |
| Who qualifies | For-profit incorporated Canadian businesses with 1 to 500 full-time employees and $100,000 to $100M in declared annual revenue |
| Deadline or intake | Apply at least 60 calendar days before the project start; expenses before approval are ineligible |
| Region | Canada |
| Official page | www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/funding-financement/canexport/sme-pme/inde |
What CanExport SMEs covers (50 % cost share)
- International events and B2B meetings. Booth rentals, registration fees, economy airfare and per diems for business development in the target market.
- Foreign market adaptation. Website translation, foreign digital advertising, search marketing and targeted international PR.
- Certifications and trademark protection. International patent and trademark filings, regulatory testing (CE, FDA) and localized packaging adjustments.
Eligibility checklist
- Revenue and headcount. A for-profit incorporated Canadian business with 1 to 500 full-time employees and $100,000 to $100 million in declared annual Canadian revenue.
- Diversification. Projects must target new markets where the company generated less than $100,000 or less than 10 % of total sales in the past 24 months.
- Matching contribution. The remaining 50 % must be funded from company operating funds.
How we can help
We help define target markets, prepare the project budget and organize a complete application ahead of the 60-day window. Decisions rest with Global Affairs Canada; no funding is guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Can a company apply for CanExport SMEs multiple times?
Yes. Canadian businesses can receive funding for up to two active projects per fiscal year, provided each project targets separate markets and cumulative funding stays within program limits.
Can we target the United States?
The United States remains an eligible target market, but Global Affairs Canada applies non-US diversification requirements. Applications targeting Europe, Asia or Latin America are generally treated more favourably.
How far in advance should we apply?
At least 60 calendar days before your earliest project start date or travel event. Expenses incurred before written approval are strictly ineligible.
Official sources
- Trade Commissioner Service — CanExport SMEs — applicant guide, eligible expenses and deadlines
Canadian Funding Partners Inc. is an independent advisory firm and does not administer this program. Rates, ceilings and eligibility are set by the administering authority and change. Confirm current terms with the official source before relying on them.