Services
Expertises
Resources
Who we are
Direct Lending - Canada
Closed
Source verified July 1, 2026

Direct Lending

Direct financing for global expansion
Funding available
$ 1,000,000
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
Who can apply

Canadian companies pursuing international growth.

See full eligibility

Overview

EDC Direct Lending supports mid-sized and large Canadian exporters with direct loans for international growth. It helps companies scale production, invest in new markets, acquire international businesses, add equipment or facilities, and bridge cash flow gaps tied to export contracts.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals
  • Increase production or service capacity
  • Access new markets
Eligible Funding
  • Minimum amount : 1,000,000 $

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Location
  • Canada
Legal structures
  • For-profit business
Annual revenue
  • $ 10,000,000 minimum revenue
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • Canadians
  • Startups

Next Steps

1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility

Documents Needed

  • Annual financial statements or interim financials
  • A signed loan agreement and any amendments
  • An authorized credit write-up from your financial institution
  • An exporter declaration and consent form

Official resources

Official page

Direct lending

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • Canadian companies pursuing international growth.
  • Mid-sized and large Canadian exporters.

How to apply

  • Define your international growth strategy.
  • Connect with EDC loan experts.
  • Secure your direct loan.

Processing and Agreement

  • Talk to your EDC account manager to identify the right structure.
  • Once approved, EDC will underwrite and finalize the loan.

Additional information

  • EDC direct loans are designed to complement financing from your financial institution.
  • Loans are typically structured to match your business needs.
  • Direct loans are priced in line with commercial market rates.
  • Standard terms allow penalty-free prepayment.

Contacts

Frequently Asked Questions about the Direct Lending Program

What is the Direct Lending?

EDC Direct Lending supports mid-sized and large Canadian exporters with direct loans for international growth. It helps companies scale production, invest in new markets, acquire international businesses, add equipment or facilities, and bridge cash flow gaps tied to export contracts.

Who is eligible for the Direct Lending program?

To be eligible for the Direct Lending program, you must: Annual revenue must be $10 million or more. The business must be seeking at least $1 million in funding. The company must be investing in global expansion.

Who can I contact for more information about the Direct Lending?

You can contact Export Development Canada (EDC) by email at none or by phone at 1-800-229-0575.

Where is the Direct Lending available?

The Direct Lending program is available across Canada.

Is the Direct Lending a grant, loan, or tax credit?

Direct Lending is a Loans and Capital investments

Who are the financial supporters of the Direct Lending?

Direct Lending is funded by Export Development Canada (EDC)