Exporting is expensive. Market research, travel, legal advice, and finding partners all cost money—especially when you want to sell in a new country. CanExport funding helps Canadian businesses and organizations pay for some of these costs. This support can help you grow outside Canada and reduce your dependence on the U.S. market.
CanExport is not just one program. It includes four federal funding streams, each with its own rules. Picking the right stream—and applying the right way—can mean the difference between approval and rejection.
CanExport is managed by Global Affairs Canada through the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS). The funding is competitive and non-repayable if you follow the rules.
Here is a simple overview of the four CanExport streams and how each one works.
Best for: For-profit Canadian small and medium-sized businesses that want to enter new foreign markets.
Key eligibility requirements:
Funding details:
Eligible activities include:
Best for: National industry and trade associations that help their members export.
Who can apply:
Funding amount:
Typical funded projects:
Best for: SMEs, research centres, and academic groups working on international research and development partnerships.
Core eligibility:
Funding details:
Eligible expenses:
Best for: SMEs chosen for Global Affairs Canada–led trade missions.
Eligibility highlights:
Important note:
This is a pilot program running until November 2029 and only applies to certain missions.
Each CanExport stream has its own details, but the main steps are similar:
Check your eligibility first
Many applicants are rejected because they choose the wrong stream.
Describe a clear export project
Your activities must be specific, have a timeline, and focus on new international markets.
Make a realistic budget
Only certain costs are eligible. Overestimating your expenses can cause problems.
Apply through the official TCS intake system
Deadlines are different for each stream and market.
Tip: GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly see which CanExport stream fits your province, revenue, and export plans.
Applying for U.S. expansion only
CanExport prefers projects that target markets outside the U.S..
Unclear market plans
You need to name your target countries and activities—just saying “exploring Europe” is not enough.
Including ineligible costs
Capital purchases and ongoing operating expenses usually do not count.
Missing stacking limits
Most streams cap total government funding at 75% of project costs.
Q: Is CanExport funding repayable?
No. CanExport funding is non-repayable as long as you follow your funding agreement.
Q: Can I apply to more than one CanExport stream?
Yes, but you cannot ask for money for the same activities or costs. Each application must be for a different project.
Q: How competitive is CanExport funding?
It is very competitive. Meeting the rules does not guarantee approval, especially for popular markets.
Q: Do I need to work with a Trade Commissioner?
It is not always required, but getting help from the Trade Commissioner Service can make your application stronger.
Q: Can startups apply for CanExport Innovation?
Yes, if you have a prototype at TRL 4 or higher and own the intellectual property.
CanExport funding can pay for many export costs, but only if you choose the right stream and project. Before you apply, check which export and trade grants match your business profile. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active programs across Canada, making it easier to find support for your export plans.
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