What Can the Export and Cultural Visibility Support Program Fund?
The Export and Cultural Visibility Support Program, also known as SODEXPORT, plays a pivotal role in boosting Quebec’s cultural exports. This initiative is designed to help businesses and organizations in the cultural sector expand their reach to international markets. For a comprehensive understanding of what this program can finance, refer to the complete program guide.
Program Funding Overview
SODEXPORT is administered by the Société de développement des entreprises culturelles (SODEC) and offers financial assistance to cultural organizations aiming to penetrate and develop markets outside Quebec. The program supports a wide range of activities essential for enhancing the international presence of Quebec’s cultural products.
Funding Amounts & Rates
The program provides varying levels of financial support depending on the type and scope of the project. For detailed information on funding amounts and calculation methods, consult the complete program guide.
Eligible Expenses
Eligible expenses under this program include:
Salaries and Fees: Costs related to hiring personnel or contractors specifically for export projects.
Travel and Accommodation: Expenses incurred during international market exploration trips.
Marketing and Promotion: Costs for international advertising campaigns, promotional materials, and participation in trade shows.
Consulting Services: Fees for hiring consultants to develop export strategies or market analysis.
For a complete list of eligible expenses, see the complete program guide.
Ineligible Expenses
Certain costs are not covered by the program, including:
General Overhead: Routine operational expenses not directly related to the export project.
Domestic Marketing: Costs associated with marketing within Canada.
Review the full list of exclusions in the complete program guide.
Expense Documentation Requirements
Applicants must maintain comprehensive records of their expenditures, including receipts, invoices, and contracts. These documents are necessary for audit purposes and to ensure compliance with the program's funding conditions.
Examples of Funded Projects
Projects that have benefited from SODEXPORT include:
A film production company expanding its distribution network in Europe.
A music label promoting Quebec artists at international festivals.
A publishing house translating and exporting Quebecois literature to new markets.
Funding Disbursement & Claiming Process
Funding is typically disbursed upon submission of valid expense claims. The process involves documenting incurred costs and submitting them for review by SODEC. For detailed processes, refer to the complete program guide.
Stacking Rules
SODEXPORT funding can be combined with other government support programs, provided the total public funding does not exceed a certain percentage of the project costs. Details on stacking rules are available in the complete program guide.
Real-World Budgeting Tips
To maximize funding, consider planning your projects around eligible expenses and maintaining detailed records. Engage with consultants to fine-tune your export strategy and ensure compliance with program guidelines.
Conclusion
The Export and Cultural Visibility Support Program offers substantial support for Quebec’s cultural industries aiming to expand internationally. Understanding what expenses are covered and navigating the application process effectively can significantly enhance your chances of success. For further details, consult the complete program guide.
