CanExport SMEs
Federal grant covering up to 50% of export market development costs, with a maximum award of $50,000 per project.
About this program
CanExport SMEs is administered by the Trade Commissioner Service of Global Affairs Canada. It provides direct grants of up to $50,000 (reduced from $99,999 in 2026-27) covering up to 50% of eligible expenses for Canadian SMEs entering new international markets. Eligible costs include international travel, trade shows, market research, marketing materials, translation, regulatory advice, intellectual property protection, and digital marketing for new markets. Each project must target a market where the applicant has limited or no prior sales.
Eligibility
Incorporated Canadian SMEs with 1-500 full-time equivalent employees and Canadian annual revenue between $100,000 and $100 million. Must be pursuing a new export market (less than $100K or 10% of total sales in that market).
Requirements
- Register a CanExport account at canexport.ca
- Submit a project application identifying target market, activities, and budget
- Allow 60+ business days for review