If your agri-food organization wants to grow exports or enter new international markets, understanding AgriMarketing Program eligibility is important. This federal program supports industry-led marketing and promotion, but it is not open to every farm or food company. Knowing who can apply—and who cannot—can save you time and help you decide if this program fits your growth plans.
The AgriMarketing Program is delivered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and focuses on export market development for Canadian agricultural, agri-food, and agri-based products.
The AgriMarketing Program is designed mainly for industry associations, not individual businesses.
You may be eligible if your organization is:
Eligible projects must aim to:
The program generally does not fund:
If you are a small or mid-sized agri-food business, you may still benefit indirectly by joining projects led by an eligible association in your sector.
Understanding the funding structure is a key part of AgriMarketing Program eligibility.
This means your organization must have strong financial capacity before applying. You can use GrantHub to find programs that match your funding needs.
To meet AgriMarketing Program eligibility criteria, your project must focus on international market development.
Common eligible activities include:
The program also supports priority markets such as the Indo-Pacific region. There are higher funding levels for underrepresented and Indigenous-led initiatives.
This is one of the most misunderstood parts of AgriMarketing Program eligibility.
Repayment terms depend on your project and agreement with AAFC. Careful financial planning is needed before you apply.
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Applying as an individual business
Most applications are rejected because the applicant is not an industry association.
Relying on in-kind contributions
Only cash contributions count toward the 50% cost-share requirement.
Focusing on domestic marketing
Projects must target international markets to be eligible.
Underestimating repayment obligations
This is a repayable program, not free funding.
Q: Who is eligible for the AgriMarketing Program?
Primarily industry associations in agriculture, agri-food, agri-based products, and seafood sectors. Individual businesses are usually not eligible on their own.
Q: How much funding can you get from the AgriMarketing Program?
Eligible projects can receive up to $2 million per year, with total funding capped at $10 million over the project life.
Q: Is AgriMarketing funding repayable?
Yes. The program offers repayable contributions, not non-repayable grants.
Q: What expenses are eligible under the program?
Eligible expenses include international promotion, trade missions, and market development activities aimed at export growth.
Q: Are small agri-food businesses eligible?
Funding is generally directed to associations, but small businesses can benefit by participating in association-led projects.
If you are unsure whether your organization meets AgriMarketing Program eligibility, start by clarifying your role in the sector and your ability to meet the cash cost-share. GrantHub lists hundreds of active grant and contribution programs across Canada—check which ones match your business or association profile and explore alternatives that may fit your size and goals.
You may also find these guides helpful:
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