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Source verified August 14, 2026
BDC Advisory Services — Certifications
Guidance towards a successful certification
Latest source updateLast Update: August 14, 2026Latest change: BDC’s certification advisory page now presents a 3-step intake flow and expands the certification areas it supports.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: August 14, 2026
Latest change: BDC’s certification advisory page now presents a 3-step intake flow and expands the certification areas it supports.
BDC Certification Advisory Updated
The certification advisory page now lays out a 3-step process: share information, speak with an expert, and receive a tailored proposal, with a Get in touch link to start the intake. It also expands the listed certification areas to include occupational health, cybersecurity and AI, defense and aerospace security certifications, and business continuity plans. The page now says BDC can finance the cost of BDC consulting to help carry the project through, but no amount or rate is shown.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
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.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Optimize production processes
- Obtain certifications or accreditations
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
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.
Official resources
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
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
How to apply
- Share some info with us.
- Speak with an expert.
- Get a tailored proposal.
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
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.
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?
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.
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
Who are the financial supporters of the BDC Advisory Services — Certifications?
BDC Advisory Services — Certifications is funded by Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)