CanExport program worth a look if interested in entering international markets

MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2023

If you are interested in expanding your international business development opportunities, the CanExport Program may be worth a look. The government program provides funding to companies with 500 or fewer employees and between $100,000 and $100 million in revenue - frequently funded activities include trade show participation, creation of marketing tools, digital marketing, IP protection, and related consulting services. 

Eligibility requirements include:

  • The entity must be incorporated or a limited liability partnership (LLP) in Canada

  • Have a CRA business number

  • Have 500 or fewer full-time employees

  • Have $100,000 to $100 million in annual revenue declared in Canada during your last complete tax reporting year

Eligible companies can receive up to 50% of costs between $10,000 and $50,000 per project. Types of activities typically funded include:

·      Gathering market intelligence (custom research, reports and studies)

·      Applying for intellectual property protection in international markets

·      Applying for certification in international markets

·      Seeking expert legal and business advice

·      Search Engine Optimization

·      Translating, adapting or creating marketing materials

·      Attending virtual trade shows, networking functions, meetings or conferences

You can target up to five new international markets per project where sales were:

  • less than $100,000 or

  • less than 10% of the company’s total sales (domestic and international sales combined) 

The application process includes completing a ‘basic eligibility’ test on the CRA’s website. Once completed, it will take up to seven business days to hear whether you have been accepted or not. Once approved, you then complete the CanExport SMEs Application – a funding decision is made within 60 business days, and obviously projects should be applied for at least 60 days in advance of launch.

A detailed applicant guide can be found here, and we can help you through the application process after receiving some basic information.

Please reach out if you have any questions.