If your business is looking to sell outside Canada, the CanExport grant is one of the most practical federal funding programs available. Delivered by the Trade Commissioner Service, it helps Canadian companies cover up to 50% of eligible export-market development costs, with funding of up to $50,000 per project for SMEs.
As of March 6, 2026, the CanExport SMEs 2026–27 applicant guide is live, and the main intake window is widely reported as February 4, 2026 to May 29, 2026 (noon ET). Always confirm dates in the official portal before applying.
The CanExport grant is designed for export-ready Canadian businesses that want to enter new international markets or expand in existing ones. It is not for domestic sales or early-stage idea testing.
Funding amount
Who is eligible
What costs are eligible
What is not funded
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and industry in seconds, so you know if CanExport fits before you start the application.
While most businesses mean CanExport SMEs when they search for the canexport grant, there are other streams worth understanding.
This stream supports SMEs selected to participate in Global Affairs Canada–led trade missions.
Key points
Funding amounts vary by mission, and eligibility is tied directly to the delegation selection process.
Applying without a defined target market
Applications that list multiple countries with no focus are often rejected. You must clearly explain why each market makes sense for your business.
Including ineligible costs in your budget
Capital assets, salaries, and general overhead are not eligible. Including them can weaken or delay your application.
Starting the project before approval
Expenses incurred before written approval are not reimbursable under the CanExport grant.
Missing the matching funds requirement
CanExport only covers up to 50%. You must show that your business can fund the remaining costs.
Q: Is the CanExport grant repayable?
No. CanExport funding is non-repayable as long as you meet the terms of your contribution agreement and complete the approved activities.
Q: Can startups apply for CanExport?
Early-stage startups can apply, but you must be incorporated, revenue-generating, and demonstrate export readiness. Idea-stage companies are not a good fit.
Q: Can I apply for CanExport every year?
Yes. Many companies apply in multiple years, but each project must target new activities or markets and meet current intake rules.
Q: Does CanExport fund U.S. expansion?
Yes, but preference is often given to market diversification beyond the U.S. You must clearly justify the export opportunity.
Q: How competitive is the CanExport grant?
Demand is high, especially near deadlines. Strong applications clearly link activities, costs, and expected export outcomes.
GrantHub tracks 2,500+ active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile.
The CanExport grant remains one of the most accessible ways for Canadian SMEs to reduce the cost of international expansion. With up to $50,000 in support, it can make trade shows, market research, and foreign buyer meetings far more affordable.
If you’re also exploring other funding options, you may want to compare this program with CanExport SMEs Program, review the broader CanExport Program, or look at other export grants in Canada. GrantHub helps you see how these programs fit together, so you can plan your export growth with confidence.
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