And it also gives you…

• Easier access to specialized programs to support exports and international expansion.
• A financing strategy tailored to your international growth objectives.
• Comprehensive, rigorous support that reduces your risks and lets you focus on your core business.

• Combined expertise in grants, taxation and international business strategy.
• A personalized approach that takes into account the realities of your sector and target markets.
• An established network of major international funding agencies and partners.

What is an export subsidy (definition)

An export subsidy is government financial assistance granted to companies to support their international business activities. This type of subsidy is designed to reduce the costs of expanding into foreign markets and strengthen the competitiveness of Canadian exporters.

In practical terms, these programs cover a wide range of activities: market research, participation in international trade shows, product adaptation, recruitment of specialized personnel or development of strategic partnerships. Amounts vary according to project type and company size.

In Canada, several organizations offer such assistance, including Investissement Québec, the Canadian Trade Commissioners and various regional agencies. Eligibility criteria generally include for-profit status, demonstrated export capability and compliance with applicable laws.

What is export financing?

Export financing encompasses all the financial instruments used by companies to facilitate their sales abroad. This global approach combines bank loans, credit guarantees, export insurance and specialized lines of credit.

Unlike subsidies, which constitute direct aid, export financing gives companies access to the working capital they need to produce, ship and deliver their goods or services on international markets. Extended payment terms granted to foreign customers often create substantial cash flow requirements.

For example, a Quebec SME exporting to Europe can obtain a documentary credit to secure its transactions, or benefit from a bank guarantee covering political and commercial risks. These solutions enable new exporters to overcome the financial obstacles inherent in international trade, while preserving their investment capacity.

PSCE, ORPEX, CanExport | What are the export assistance organizations for SMEs in Quebec?

Investissement Québec is the main partner for Québec companies wishing to expand internationally. Its Marketing and Export Support Program (PSCE) offers up to $100,000 annually to SMEs for their projects outside Quebec.

Commerce International Québec coordinates the network of Regional Export Promotion Organizations (ORPEX) in the 17 administrative regions. These organizations provide export diagnostics, training and market studies adapted to local realities.

The Canadian Trade Commissioner Service administers CanExport PME, which grants up to $50,000 to explore new international markets. Agri-Food Export Group Québec-Canada specializes in the bio-food sector, with targeted grants.

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions completes this offer by supporting ORPEXs with over $19 million recently announced to strengthen their support capacity.