Fuel costs are one of the largest expenses for Canadian fleets. Medium- and heavy-duty trucks also produce a significant share of transportation greenhouse gas emissions. The Green Freight Program — Assess and Retrofit helps fleets lower fuel use and emissions by covering part of the cost for professional fleet assessments and approved equipment retrofits.
This guide explains who qualifies, what costs are covered, and how much funding your business can receive under the Green Freight Program.
The Green Freight Program — Assess and Retrofit is a federal grant managed by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). It supports fleets with medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that want to improve fuel efficiency through data-driven upgrades.
You may qualify if your business meets all of these conditions:
There is no minimum fleet size required. Eligibility depends on fleet operations and vehicle class, not company size.
The program covers:
Passenger vehicles and light-duty vehicles are not included in this program.
Fleet energy assessments help you find where fuel is wasted and which upgrades will give the best results.
Under the Green Freight Program:
The assessment usually reviews vehicle specs, duty cycles, idling time, maintenance practices, and retrofit opportunities.
After an assessment, fleets can apply for retrofit funding to install approved technologies.
Details include:
Common retrofit categories are:
Eligibility depends on the equipment type and its proven impact on emissions.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if your fleet size, vehicle classes, and location fit current Green Freight criteria.
Before you apply, it’s important to understand how costs and funding limits work:
You may be able to combine this grant with other federal or provincial programs, but total public funding cannot go over program limits.
To learn more about combining funding sources, see How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules.
To apply for the Green Freight Program:
Checking eligibility and preparing documents ahead of time can help you avoid delays.
Applying with ineligible vehicle classes
The program only supports Class 5–8 vehicles. Including other vehicles can delay or stop your application.
Using unapproved assessment providers
Fleet energy assessments must be completed by a qualified third party. Internal reviews are not eligible.
Assuming all retrofits are approved
Only certain technologies with proven fuel savings qualify. Always check eligibility before buying equipment.
Exceeding cost-share limits
The program will not cover more than 50% of eligible costs or more than $250,000 per applicant.
Green Freight Program deadlines can change from year to year. It is important to check the official Natural Resources Canada website for the most current dates. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered. Early preparation is recommended, as funding is limited and may run out before the posted deadline.
Q: Can small fleets apply for the Green Freight Program?
Yes. Eligibility is based on fleet operations and vehicle classes, not company size. Small and mid-sized fleets can qualify if they operate eligible vehicles.
Q: Is Green Freight Program funding repayable?
No. The funding is non-repayable. However, it may be treated as taxable income, so check with your accountant.
Q: Do I need a fleet assessment before applying for retrofit funding?
In most cases, yes. The assessment helps identify the most effective retrofits and supports your funding application.
Q: What is the maximum funding amount my business can receive?
The total maximum is $250,000 per applicant, including both assessments and retrofits.
Q: Can I combine this grant with provincial incentives?
Sometimes. Stacking may be allowed, but total government funding must stay within program limits and must be disclosed.
If your fleet operates Class 5–8 vehicles, the Green Freight Program — Assess and Retrofit can help reduce fuel costs and support Canada’s emissions goals. Confirm eligibility before committing to assessments or equipment purchases.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada. You can use its tools to compare funding options for transportation and clean technology. Checking which programs match your fleet profile can save time and prevent costly mistakes.
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