Closed — next intake expected 2027. This page is kept for reference; confirm future intakes with the official source.
Sources
- CanExport SMEs — tradecommissioner.gc.ca
CanExport SMEs
This guide is retained as dated editorial context. Confirm a current verified intake with the official program operator before taking action.
Current operational facts
Status
Status under review
Review the official source before relying on availability, timing, or funding amounts.
Timing
Confirm in official guidance
Funding
Confirm in official guidance
Being re-verified; check the official source
Open program operator pageOverview
Program availability is currently unavailable or under review.
The guide below preserves dated structure and source context. It does not represent a current offer, application path, or eligibility decision.
Eligibility context
Hard Gates — Must Have
3–500 employees
Must have between 3 and 500 full-time equivalents
Revenue $300K–$100M
Annual revenue within this range
Canadian-registered
Incorporated or registered in Canada
New market
Must be targeting a market where you have less than 10% revenue share
Open intake
The 2026-27 intake is closed; the next intake is expected in 2027
Soft Gates — Nice to Have
Existing product/service
Product must be market-ready (not pre-revenue)
Export plan
Clear strategy for the target market increases approval odds
How Much
Current status
Status under review
Timing
Confirm in official guidance
Funding
Confirm in official guidance
Editorial process context
Do not start an application from this guide. Confirm a current intake with the official program operator first.
Online application
Submit through the CanExport portal with your export plan and budget.
Assessment
Trade Commissioner Service reviews eligibility and market strategy.
Contribution agreement
If approved, sign agreement outlining eligible costs and reporting requirements.
Execute and claim
Spend on approved activities, submit expense reports with receipts.
Common Mistakes
Applying for domestic activities
CanExport is international only. Costs incurred in Canada for the Canadian market are not eligible. The money must support entry into a foreign market.
Missing the reimbursement model
You pay first, CanExport pays back 50% later. Budget for the full amount upfront.
Targeting a market you're already in
If you already generate significant revenue in a market, CanExport considers it 'existing' and won't fund it.
Assuming the intake is open
The 2026-27 intake closed on August 31, 2026. Check the official program page for the next intake (expected 2027) and its target-market rules before committing spend.
Related Programs
Program action is unavailable
This program is not currently available for matching. Review the official program operator page for a verified future intake.