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BDC Advisory Services — Certifications

Guidance towards a successful certification

Offered by
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Official source: bdc.ca

Source change captured

Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
Who can apply
SMEs
See full eligibility

Overview

Get advice to achieve international certifications, to pass an audit in quality management, information security and environmental management, using proven methodology, employee engagement and coaching support.

At a glance

Funding available

Varies by project

Financing goals
  • Improve governance or administrative structure
  • Optimize production processes
  • Obtain certifications or accreditations
  • Reduce environmental footprint
  • Strengthen cybersecurity
  • Access new markets

Eligible candidates

Location
  • Canada
Eligible Industries
All industries
Annual revenue
All revenue ranges
Organisation size
All organization sizes
Audience
All groups
Legal structures
For-profit business

Start applying for this program

Take a practical assessment to gain a clear understanding of how well this program aligns with your specific needs and long-term goals.

Availability timeline

2026
Periods: 1

Latest changes

BDC Certification Advisory Page Updated

BDC’s certification advisory page now focuses on risk reduction and compliance, adds a 3-step contact path, and expands the list of covered certifications and services.

See more

BDC’s certification advisory page was recast around risk reduction and compliance, with new sections on protecting the business, meeting new standards, obtaining certifications, and gaining autonomy through the process. The page also adds a 3-step next-step flow to share information, speak with the team, and receive a personalized offer, and it broadens the covered areas to include ISO 45001, defense and aerospace certifications, business continuity plans, and other compliance-related services. It still notes that BDC can offer financing to cover consultation fees, and the main contact link remains the same.

Official source: bdc.ca
August 14, 2026

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • SMEs

Eligible expenses

This grant supports projects aimed at enhancing business operations through internationally recognized certifications. The programs focus on improving management practices, regulatory compliance, and employee engagement for achieving better operational standards.

  • Attaining food safety certifications such as GSFI, HACCP, SFCR, or GMP to meet regulatory requirements and boost market credibility.
  • Implementing ISO 27001 standards for information security to mitigate cybersecurity risks.
  • Achieving ISO 9001 certification for quality management to enhance customer satisfaction and improve business operations.
  • Obtaining ISO 14001 certification to manage environmental impacts and meet compliance obligations.
  • Accessing BDC advisory services to support project implementation, including employee training and internal audits.

Eligible geographic areas

  • Canada
  • United States

Activities funded

Guiding you toward a successful certification. Meeting certification standards increases customer confidence, helps satisfy regulatory requirements, and puts you in a great position to go after bigger clients.

  • Food safety standards: Get GSFI, HACCP, SFCR, or GMP certification to meet regulatory requirements, boost customer confidence, win business from major food chains, and access international markets.
  • ISO 27001 – Information security: Reduce cybersecurity risks to your business by identifying critical assets, understanding vulnerabilities, and building strong practices in IT security management.
  • ISO 9001 – Quality management: Meet and even exceed your customers' quality assurance standards and increase profitability at all levels of your business operations.
  • ISO 14001 – Environmental management: Minimize any harmful effects of your business on the environment, meet requirements, and reduce risk and liability, while satisfying internal and external stakeholders.

How to apply

  • Share some info with us.
  • Speak with an expert.
  • Get a tailored proposal.

Selection criteria

There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant.

  • Demonstrated commitment to meeting certification standards
  • Evidence of employee engagement and training
  • Potential for business growth and customer satisfaction
  • Ability to implement and maintain certification processes

Additional information

Additional relevant details worth knowing:

  • BDC advisory services can be financed to support the certification journey.
  • Dedicated coaching and support are provided throughout the certification process from consultants.
  • Employee engagement strategies are available to enhance adherence to new certification practices.
  • Unbiased and structured guidance is offered through each step of the certification process.
  • Certification helps businesses tap into international markets and attract major clients.

Contacts

1-877-232-2269

Official sources

Risk and Compliance - Get certified and reduce business risk

Application form

Consulting request
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Frequently Asked Questions about the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications Program

What is the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications?

Get advice to achieve international certifications, to pass an audit in quality management, information security and environmental management, using proven methodology, employee engagement and coaching support.

What is the deadline to apply?

The program is accepting continuous intake

Who is eligible for the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications program?

To be eligible for the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications program, you must: The business must aim to achieve internationally recognized certifications such as ISO 27001, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or food safety standards like GSFI, HACCP, SFCR, or GMP. The business must seek to improve through BDC advisory services related to certification.

What expenses are eligible under BDC Advisory Services — Certifications?

This grant supports projects aimed at enhancing business operations through internationally recognized certifications. The programs focus on improving management practices, regulatory compliance, and employee engagement for achieving better operational standards. Attaining food safety certifications such as GSFI, HACCP, SFCR, or GMP to meet regulatory requirements and boost market credibility. Implementing ISO 27001 standards for information security to mitigate cybersecurity risks. Achieving ISO 9001 certification for quality management to enhance customer satisfaction and improve business operations. Obtaining ISO 14001 certification to manage environmental impacts and meet compliance obligations. Accessing BDC advisory services to support project implementation, including employee training and internal audits.

Who can I contact for more information about the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications?

You can contact Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) or by phone at 1-877-232-2269.

Where is the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications available?

The BDC Advisory Services — Certifications program is available across Canada.

Is the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications a grant, loan, or tax credit?

BDC Advisory Services — Certifications is a Expert Advice