The 8 Types of Expenses Covered by CanExport SMEs Funding
For Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) ready to expand internationally, the CanExport SMEs program provides a valuable financial boost. Administered by the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) and in collaboration with NRC IRAP, this program funds up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum contribution of $50,000 CAD per project. But what exactly does the funding cover?
Here’s a breakdown of the 8 key types of eligible expenses that your business can claim through CanExport SMEs:
1. Travel Costs
If you’re meeting international clients, attending trade shows, or exploring new markets in person, travel costs are eligible. This includes:
Flights and transportation
Accommodation
Per diem allowances (meals, local travel)
Tip: You must show that the travel is tied directly to new market expansion.
2. Trade Show and Event Participation
Planning to exhibit or attend international trade events? CanExport will help cover:
Booth rental and setup
Registration fees
Promotional material costs for the event
This is especially valuable for SMEs building brand awareness abroad.
3. Marketing and Advertising
To break into foreign markets, you’ll need visibility. Eligible marketing costs include:
Digital advertising
Translations of marketing material
International SEO work
Print or online media buys
Note: The marketing must be focused on the target international markets, not domestic promotion.
4. Market Research and Consulting Services
Understanding a new market is crucial. CanExport supports:
Competitive analysis
Market entry strategies
Regulatory research
Third-party market validation studies
Hiring local consultants or trade experts for insight is also eligible.
5. Legal and IP-Related Costs
To safeguard your product or brand in a new country, you may need to:
File for international patents, trademarks, copyrights, or industrial designs
Hire IP consultants or legal advisors
Conduct IP landscape assessments
CanExport helps absorb these significant upfront legal costs.
6. Certification and Product Testing
If your product must meet regulatory standards in another country, CanExport funding applies to:
Product certifications (e.g., CE marking, FDA approval)
Lab testing and quality assurance
Safety audits and technical evaluations
7. Translation and Localization Services
To effectively communicate in global markets, you’ll likely need:
Translation of websites, packaging, and documentation
Localization of content for cultural relevance
Multilingual support material development
These are all reimbursable under the program.
8. E-commerce and Website Optimization
CanExport recognizes the role of digital commerce in global expansion. Covered costs include:
Adapting or translating your e-commerce platform
Country-specific domain setup
SEO targeting for international regions
Subscription to export-related platforms
Final Thoughts
If your business is preparing to expand into up to five new international markets, the CanExport SMEs program can significantly reduce your upfront costs. The broad scope of eligible expenses—from legal fees to marketing—makes it one of the most comprehensive support programs available to Canadian SMEs.
Before applying, ensure your project is clearly defined, markets are eligible (less than $100K in past sales or <10% of revenue), and expenses are aligned with program guidelines. Refer to the tradecommissioner.gc.ca website for more details.
Want help preparing your CanExport application or planning your market entry strategy? Reach out to us today to maximize your success.