How can Canadian businesses get help entering export markets?
Updated: 2026-10-19
Short answer
Canadian businesses can seek market research, export advice, and qualified business contacts through the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS), and use Export Development Canada (EDC) for export financing and risk-management products. CanExport SMEs has offered competitive funding for eligible international business development activities, but applications are currently closed: the published 2026–27 intake ended on August 31, 2026. Check for the next intake before planning around that funding.
Start with Canada's Trade Commissioner Service
The Trade Commissioner Service (TCS), operated by Global Affairs Canada, helps eligible Canadian businesses prepare for international markets, assess opportunities, connect with qualified contacts, and address business problems abroad. Depending on the company's needs and eligibility, Trade Commissioners may provide market intelligence, guidance on market entry, information about potential buyers or distributors, and referrals to relevant local experts. TCS services support a company's export strategy but do not replace its own sales and marketing activities. Learn more at https://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/en/our-solutions/export-advice.html.
Research CanExport SMEs Funding
CanExport SMEs has provided cost-sharing funding to eligible Canadian small and medium-sized businesses pursuing international market development. Activities and expenses must meet the program's rules, and funding is competitive rather than guaranteed. As of October 13, 2026, the published 2026–27 application intake is closed; the program advises businesses to check its website for information about future intake periods. Eligibility, funding limits, minimum business size, revenue thresholds, target markets, and eligible costs can change between application cycles. Check https://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/en/our-solutions/funding-financing-international-business/canexport-smes.html before committing to expenses.
Use Export Development Canada for Financing and Risk Management
Export Development Canada (EDC) offers products that may help eligible Canadian exporters manage foreign buyer non-payment risk, increase access to working capital, and handle certain currency-related financing needs. Its trade credit insurance can protect qualifying receivables, while working capital guarantees can help a Canadian business obtain financing through a participating financial institution. These services are intended to support viable international business activity and are subject to eligibility, underwriting, and product terms. Visit https://www.edc.ca/en.html.
Build an Export Plan and Find Market-Specific Support
Define your product's competitive advantage, production capacity, target buyer, target countries, pricing, delivery capabilities, and compliance requirements. Contact a regional Trade Commissioner to discuss export readiness and identify the most relevant services. Use Canadian industry associations, chambers of commerce, provincial export agencies, and sector trade events to build local market knowledge and establish contacts. Canada's official export starting point is https://international.canada.ca/en/services/business/trade/export/get-started.