Many Canadian businesses miss out on funding because they think only one grant can support a project. In fact, using both federal and provincial grants for the same project is often possible if you follow the rules. The main things to know are stacking limits, eligible costs, and how funders share information.
When used correctly, grant stacking can reduce how much you pay out of pocket for a project. For example, according to typical Government of Canada program guidelines, some businesses have covered up to 75% of eligible project expenses through combined public funding, as long as each program’s rules are followed.
Grant stacking means using more than one government funding program to pay for the same project. This usually involves:
Most programs allow stacking because governments want to share the cost, not double up on support. What they limit is overfunding — when total public funding is more than a set percentage of project costs.
Each program sets:
Before you try to combine grants, keep these points in mind:
Thinking through these points can help you avoid mistakes and make your applications stronger.
Grant stacking only works if all programs are funding the same project, such as:
Your budget should clearly show:
Funders compare notes. If your budgets are different in each application, your chances of approval drop.
Each grant has its own stacking policy. Important questions to ask:
For example, CanExport SMEs is a federal program that:
If your province offers an export grant covering 30% of the same costs, the combined total (80%) may or may not be allowed, depending on both programs’ rules.
A safe way to stack grants is to separate costs by category.
Example:
Even when grants support the same project, they do not have to pay for the same expenses.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and cost type, helping you identify programs that may be combined for your project.
The order you apply matters. Apply to the largest or most restrictive program first (often federal). Then, use that approval to strengthen your provincial application. If you get more funding later, update all funders.
Some programs require approval before costs start. Others allow you to apply after spending. Missing this detail can lead to losing your funding.
All applications ask for:
If you do not share this information, you could lose your eligibility or have to pay back funds. Funders expect you to be open and honest.
Assuming stacking is always allowed
Some programs do not permit stacking. Always check the official guidelines.
Overfunding the project
If combined public funding is above the allowed cap, the extra funds are usually taken back.
Claiming the same expense twice
You cannot have two programs pay for the same invoice unless the rules say you can.
Applying too late
Many grants require approval before you start spending, even if stacking is permitted.
Q: Can I stack federal and provincial grants for the same expense?
Sometimes. It depends on whether both programs allow shared funding for that cost and whether stacking caps are respected. Always confirm in writing.
Q: What is a typical stacking limit in Canada?
Many programs cap total public funding at 75% to 100% of eligible project costs, but this varies by program and sector.
Q: Do I need approval from both funders to stack grants?
Yes. You must disclose stacking to each funder, and both must allow it.
Q: What happens if I receive more funding than allowed?
The excess amount is usually reduced or recovered. In some cases, future eligibility can be affected.
Q: Can small businesses stack grants, or is this only for large firms?
Small and medium-sized enterprises stack grants all the time. Programs like CanExport SMEs are designed specifically for SMEs.
Grant stacking works best when you can see all eligible programs at once, not just one at a time. GrantHub lists hundreds of active federal and provincial grant programs across Canada, helping you identify programs that may be combined for your project.
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