CanExport: Opening Global Markets for Canadian Food & Beverage Brands

In today’s competitive global marketplace, expanding internationally can be a game-changer for Canadian food and beverage companies. However, the costs associated with international market development often present significant barriers to entry, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This is where CanExport comes in.

 

What is CanExport?

CanExport is a government program designed to provide financial assistance to Canadian SMEs for international business development activities. The program remains active and continues to be a valuable resource for food and beverage companies looking to expand their reach beyond Canadian borders.

 

Program Highlights

The CanExport SMEs program offers substantial support for companies ready to take the global leap:

• Funding Amount: Up to $50,000 per project, covering up to 50% of eligible costs
• Project Size: Eligible projects should have budgets between $20,000 and $100,000
• Market Focus: Support for expansion into up to 5 new international markets where your sales were less than $100,000 or less than 10% of your total sales during the previous tax year

 

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the CanExport SMEs program, your company must meet the following criteria:

• Be a for-profit entity incorporated in Canada (or a limited liability partnership or cooperative)
• Have an active Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) business number
• Employ fewer than 500 full-time equivalent employees
• Generate annual revenue between $100,000 and $100 million

 

What Activities Does CanExport Support?

The program covers a wide range of activities designed to help you succeed in new international markets:

 

Non-Travel Activities

• Website adaptation and localization for target markets
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and digital marketing campaigns
• Creation and translation of marketing materials
• Market research and feasibility studies
• Intellectual property protection in international markets
• Product certification for new markets
• Legal, tax, and business consulting related to international expansion
• Participation in virtual trade shows and networking events

 

Travel-Related Activities

• Attendance at international trade shows and exhibitions
• Business trips for meetings with potential partners and clients
• Participation in trade missions
• Travel costs, including economy airfare for up to two company representatives
• Accommodation expenses
• Per diem allowances (up to $400 per person per day, maximum 30 days per trip)

 

Focus on Food and Beverage

For food and beverage companies specifically, CanExport offers specialized support:

• Targeted assistance for agriculture and agri-food exports
• Help with promoting food products internationally, including through digital channels
• Complementary support through the AgriMarketing Program, which is expected to have a second intake for applications in Spring 2025

 

Global Opportunities, Including the U.S. Market

While the Canadian government has recently emphasized diversifying trade relationships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, support for U.S. market expansion remains an important aspect of Canada’s export strategy. The U.S. continues to be a key market for Canadian exporters, and CanExport provides valuable assistance for companies looking to establish or strengthen their presence there.

 

Application Process

It’s important to note that CanExport SMEs is a competitive program with limited funding. Applications are assessed based on several criteria including:

• Incrementally
• Export business case
• Market potential
• Exporting readiness
• Alignment with Global Affairs Canada trade priorities

 

Getting Started

Ready to take your food or beverage brand global? The CanExport program could provide the financial boost you need to make international expansion a reality. With support for everything from market research to trade show participation, CanExport helps reduce the financial risks of entering new markets.

As you prepare your application, remember to clearly articulate how your international expansion plans align with your overall business strategy and how the specific activities you’re seeking funding for will help you achieve your export goals.

For the latest information on application deadlines and specific eligibility requirements, be sure to reach out to BDooley@Culture advisorygroup.com, we have the resources and people who can help.