CanExport SMEs
Up to $50,000 for eligible non-U.S. market development — apply by August 31, 2026
Overview
$10,000 to $50,000 to take your product international
CanExport SMEs reimburses up to 50% of costs for entering new international markets. Trade shows, market research, legal fees, marketing materials, translation — if it helps you sell abroad, CanExport likely covers it.
The program targets companies already generating domestic revenue that want to expand internationally. You don't need to be exporting yet, but you need a product or service that's ready for international buyers.
The current intake accepts projects for eligible non-U.S. markets only. A project may identify up to five target markets; new U.S.-market applications are closed because that allocation is fully committed.
Who Qualifies
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
Non-U.S. project
New U.S.-market applications are closed for the current intake
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
Range
$10K – $50K
Rate
50% cost-shared
Example Recovery
$20K reimbursement
You spend, then submit receipts. CanExport reimburses 50% of approved costs up to the maximum contribution.
Worked Example
Your spend
$40K on European trade shows + legal + marketing
You recover
$20K reimbursement
Note
50% of $40K eligible costs
Application Process
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.
Including the U.S. in a new application
The 2026-27 U.S.-market allocation is fully committed. Choose eligible non-U.S. target markets for a new application.
Key Deadlines
Eligible non-U.S. markets
August 31, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET
Deadline was extended, but the intake can close earlier if remaining funds are allocated.
New U.S.-market applications
Closed
Applications submitted before June 30, 2026 continue to be assessed.
Related Programs
Check if you qualify for CanExport SMEs
32+ programs. 2-minute scan. See your eligibility, estimated recovery, and recommended next steps.