Once a business knows CanExport exists, the next question is almost always the same: what will they actually pay for? The eligible expense list is broader than most people expect — here's what it typically covers.
1. Travel
Flights, accommodation, and ground transportation for market visits, trade missions, and in-person meetings with prospective partners or distributors.
2. Trade shows and events
Booth space, registration fees, and related costs for participating in international trade shows relevant to your sector.
3. Marketing and promotional materials
Translation of marketing assets, market-specific website adaptation, and promotional materials built for the target market rather than repurposed from your domestic site.
4. Legal fees for market entry
Costs tied to reviewing distribution agreements, partnership contracts, or other legal work specific to entering the new market.
5. Intellectual property protection
Trademark or patent registration costs in the target market — often overlooked, and often expensive if left until after a dispute arises.
6. Interpretation and translation
Professional translation for contracts, technical documentation, and communication where language is a genuine barrier to closing a deal.
7. Market research
Third-party research reports or consulting engagements that directly inform the export strategy for the target market.
8. Adapting products for a new market
Certification, testing, or minor product adaptation required to meet the target market's regulatory or consumer standards.
The common thread: CanExport funds activity tied to a specific market and a specific plan. Generic marketing spend or day-to-day operating costs won't qualify — the tighter your plan, the easier the expenses are to justify.
See how these expenses fit into a real export roadmap with ExportReady.
Build your roadmap →