Many PEI businesses want to improve productivity or strengthen internal processes. However, covering the cost of outside expertise can be a challenge. Strategic Improvement Assistance (PEI) helps export-focused companies pay for professional services. These services make the business more competitive. The program offers repayable funding of up to $20,000 per business to support strategic improvement projects.
Strategic Improvement Assistance is a provincial funding program delivered by Innovation PEI. It supports PEI businesses that are investing in operational improvements, planning, and quality systems. These investments are meant to strengthen long-term competitiveness.
Key program facts:
This program does not fund equipment purchases or day-to-day operations. It focuses on projects that require outside professional expertise.
To qualify for Strategic Improvement Assistance, your business must meet all core eligibility requirements.
Your business must:
Businesses outside these sectors may still be considered if they offer a first-of-its-kind, exportable product or service.
Strategic Improvement Assistance focuses on professional services, not physical assets.
Eligible expenses typically include:
Ineligible expenses usually include:
Only costs directly tied to the approved project and incurred after approval are considered eligible.
The application process is straightforward, but good preparation is important.
Simple instructions:
Define your project
Explain the problem you want to solve. Show how external expertise will help.
Confirm eligibility early
Your sector, export focus, and business status are reviewed closely.
Prepare a project budget
List total project costs and clearly identify the 40% you are requesting.
Submit your application to Innovation PEI
Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Receive approval before starting
Starting work before approval can make costs ineligible.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher helps you quickly find PEI programs by sector and export focus.
Applying for equipment costs
This program does not fund capital purchases. Professional services only.
Starting the project too early
Costs incurred before written approval are typically not eligible.
Weak export justification
Innovation PEI expects a clear link between the project and export growth.
Underestimating repayment obligations
This is repayable assistance, not a non-repayable grant.
Q: How much funding can I receive through Strategic Improvement Assistance?
Up to $20,000 per business, covering a maximum of 40% of eligible project costs. Funding may support up to two separate projects.
Q: Is Strategic Improvement Assistance a grant or a loan?
It is repayable assistance. Repayment terms are set by Innovation PEI and vary by project.
Q: Do I need to be an export business to qualify?
Yes. Your business must primarily develop goods or services for export, or demonstrate strong export potential.
Q: What types of projects are most competitive?
Projects that clearly improve productivity, profitability, or competitiveness using third-party expertise tend to score well.
Q: Are funds from Strategic Improvement Assistance taxable?
Repayable assistance is generally treated as business income. Confirm treatment with your accountant.
Q: How long does it take to process an application?
Application review times can vary. Most applicants receive a decision within several weeks after submitting all required documents.
Q: What tips help make an application stronger?
Be clear about your project’s goals. Show how the project will improve competitiveness and support export growth. Include detailed budgets and supporting documents.
After reviewing your options, GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and funding programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile.
Strategic Improvement Assistance (PEI) is a strong fit if your export-focused business needs expert help to improve how it operates. Before applying, confirm your sector eligibility and project scope. GrantHub makes it easier to compare this program with other PEI and federal funding options that support growth and competitiveness.
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