U.S. tariffs can raise your costs overnight, delay shipments, or make your products less competitive in your biggest export market. For many Canadian exporters, the United States is still the main destination—over 70% of exports go there. Even a small tariff increase can quickly hurt cash flow and force you to rethink your business plans. The good news is that federal support is available if your Canadian business is affected by U.S. tariffs.
This guide explains what help exists, who it’s for, and how to access it—step by step.
The main federal support is coordinated by Global Affairs Canada and the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS). This is often called the Trade Commissioner Service’s Tariff Support and Export Assistance. While there isn’t a single, branded program name, these services are the official way the Government of Canada helps exporters respond to U.S. tariffs.
This is not a direct grant or cash payment. Instead, you get hands-on advisory support to help you respond to U.S. tariffs and reduce future risk.
Support includes:
This support helps if tariffs are hurting your profits.
You may qualify if:
These services are available to businesses in all provinces and territories.
There is no complicated application or deadline.
You can:
If you want to see other export programs by province or industry, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you compare options quickly.
If your Canadian business is affected by U.S. tariffs, the biggest risk is relying too much on one market. The Trade Commissioner Service focuses on helping you find new markets so you can build a more stable business.
Trade Commissioners can help you:
This support does not replace financial aid, but it can help you avoid future shocks from sudden trade policy changes.
This support is advisory and market-focused, not a grant or subsidy. Many businesses waste time searching for funding that isn’t there.
Trade Commissioners can help before tariffs cause major losses. Early action gives you more choices.
The program is designed to help you expand exports. Ignoring this limits your options.
Support is most effective when you can show which products are affected, where you ship them, and how tariffs change your prices.
In addition to tariff support, there are other programs that can help you grow internationally. These include:
Many of these programs are listed on GrantHub, making it easier to find the right fit for your business.
Q: Is there funding available if my business is affected by U.S. tariffs?
No direct funding is provided through this support. It focuses on advisory services, market intelligence, and export help.
Q: Do I need to be an experienced exporter to qualify?
No. Both new and established exporters can get help if U.S. tariffs affect their goods.
Q: Can this help me find customers outside the U.S.?
Yes. Finding new markets and partners is a core part of the support.
Q: Is this support available across Canada?
Yes. It’s a federal service open to eligible exporters in all provinces and territories.
Q: How quickly can I speak to someone about my situation?
You can use self-serve tools right away and request to speak with a Trade Commissioner through official channels.
If your Canadian business is affected by U.S. tariffs, start by learning how your products are impacted. Reach out to the Trade Commissioner Service for tailored advice and market intelligence. After that, check tools like GrantHub to find other export, marketing, and expansion programs that match your business and growth plans.
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