Export Marketing Assistance Program
ON, Canada
Funding for export-focused activities
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
- Manufacturing
grant_single|grantors
- Ontario's North Economic Development Corporation
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Access up to $10,000 to cover up to 50% of project costs for new export-focused marketing and in-market business development activities.
grant_single_labels|projects
Projects supported by the Northern Ontario Exports Program should be based in Northern Ontario. This regional focus aligns with the mandate to promote economic development within Northern Ontario.
- Northern Ontario
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$5,000
Organizing a trade mission to Latin America to explore new markets for renewable energy solutions
$5,000
Participating in a European trade show to introduce organic beauty products
$5,000
Developing a digital marketing campaign for exporting Canadian maple syrup to Europe
$5,000
Launching a new export-focused e-commerce platform for local artisans
$5,000
Conducting a market research study to evaluate potential in the Asian market for eco-friendly packaging solutions
$5,000
Hosting an international conference to attract foreign investors for biotech innovations
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for the Northern Ontario Exports Program is determined by specific criteria related to the nature of the organization and its connection to export markets.
- The applicant must be an ONEDC municipality, trade association, or not-for-profit organization.
- Organizations must represent exporting sectors and companies in Northern Ontario.
- Applicants should be looking to connect with buyers in specific export markets.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Northern Ontario Exports Program is intended for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), industry associations, and not-for-profit organizations in Northern Ontario that are export-ready and operating in sectors such as mining, forestry, manufacturing, fabrication, biotechnology, transportation, renewable energy, digital economy, and consumer-packaged goods. Additionally, the Trade Mission Support Program specifically targets ONEDC municipalities, trade associations, or not-for-profits that represent exporting sectors and companies in Northern Ontario and are looking to connect with foreign buyers.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant offers support for multiple export-building initiatives aimed at expanding the reach of businesses and organizations from Northern Ontario into new international markets. The projects encouraged under this program focus on fostering export connections, marketing efforts, and operational improvements.
- Organizing and hosting inbound visits by foreign buyers or their representatives.
- Leading multi-party missions to target markets outside of Ontario.
- Conducting market research and gathering in-market intelligence.
- Creating and developing marketing materials, both traditional and digital.
- Participating in trade shows and trade missions.
- Tailoring product labelling for different markets.
- Securing product certification and intellectual property protection.
- Hiring training or planning experts for strategic export planning and sales skills improvement.
- Enhancing operations and productivity through processes such as LEAN.
- Improving procurement, inventory, and supply chain management.
- Marketing and channel development.
- Building cultural awareness to better engage with international markets.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers eligible expenses related to organizing and hosting events both domestically and internationally to facilitate interactions with foreign buyers, as well as coordinated group participation in new domestic and in-market events.
- Expenses associated with organizing and hosting inbound visits by foreign buyers or their representatives.
- Costs related to leading multi-party trade missions to markets outside of Ontario.
- Event hosting expenses.
- Coordinated group participation costs for new domestic and in-market events.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The Northern Ontario Exports Program has evaluation and selection criteria for its grants. The assessments are based on several key factors.
- Eligibility of the applicant and project
- Relevance of the project to export development
- Demonstrated need for financial assistance
- Clarity and feasibility of the project plan
- Potential impact on export growth and market expansion
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Contact Program Manager
- Email or call Jenni Myllynen, the Program Manager, at Jenni.myllynen@investnorthernontario.com or 705-674-4455 x4428 to request the application form and further information.
- Step 2: Complete Application Form
- Fill out the application form with all required details concerning your organization and the intended project.
- Ensure all sections are thoroughly completed to avoid delays in processing.
- Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
- Gather and prepare all necessary supporting documents required by the program, which may include budgets, project plans, or proof of eligibility.
- Step 4: Submit Application
- Send the completed application form along with all supporting documents to the designated program contact.
- Ensure submission is done promptly, as applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Step 5: Await Confirmation
- Wait for a confirmation from the program office acknowledging the receipt of your application.
- Retain any confirmation details provided for future reference.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The maximum support available for projects under the Trade Mission Support Program and the Export Marketing Assistance Program is fixed at $10,000.
- The Customized Export Development Training Program provides up to $21,000 or 70% of project costs.
- Funding for the programs is limited and assessed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- The Northern Ontario Exports Program is funded by FedNor and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).
- Contact information is provided for the Program Manager and Technical Coordinator for more personalized assistance.
Apply to this program
Empowering Northern Ontario's Export Initiatives
The Northern Ontario Exports Program fosters global trade expansion by supporting export-ready businesses through financial aid and strategic training. This program targets small and medium enterprises in diverse industries, enhancing their capabilities to explore and establish international market presence.
A Deep Dive into the Northern Ontario Exports Program and Its Benefits
The Northern Ontario Exports Program is a cornerstone initiative aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of Northern Ontario's businesses. By providing vital financial assistance and focused training, the program seeks to unlock new international market opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), industry associations, and non-profit organizations. Since its inception in 2011, the program has supported over 700 export initiatives spanning multiple sectors including mining, forestry, manufacturing, and the digital economy, reflecting its breadth and adaptability to diverse industry needs.
One of the exemplary offerings of this program is the Trade Mission Support Program, which emerges as a strategic facilitator for fostering direct connections between Northern Ontario’s businesses and international buyers. By subsidizing costs related to organizing and hosting foreign buyer visits or leading trade missions to overseas markets, this initiative enhances face-to-face interactions. Such engagements are instrumental in building and sustaining long-term trade relationships, vital for the sustained growth of export-ready businesses. The program leverages governmental funds to remove financial barriers, thus democratizing access to global markets for local enterprises.
Although some sub-programs are currently closed for applications, the ongoing emphasis on export development through customizable training initiatives underscores a commitment to skill enhancement. This training covers strategic export planning, marketing, and sales optimization—integral facets of successful international business maneuvers. Beyond financial aid, the Northern Ontario Exports Program provides SMEs with access to expert guidance, a critical factor in refining operational strategies and boosting overall market competitiveness.
Funding allocation through this program ensures that financial support is paired with measurable outcomes. The program stipulates careful planning and effective resource management as prerequisites for financial aid, which enables businesses to align their strategic objectives with actionable goals. These funds can be pivotal in acquiring market-specific certifications, refining product presentations, and enhancing digital and traditional marketing outreach—steps that are essential in overcoming entry barriers often encountered in foreign markets.
The structured support afforded by the Northern Ontario Exports Program illustrates a holistic approach to exporting, where financial incentives are thoughtfully married with developmental resources. This design not only boosts an enterprise’s immediate export capabilities but also strengthens its foundation for long-term growth in international markets. Through strategic collaborations with entities such as FedNor and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, the program enhances the region's economic vitality while broadening the horizons for its businesses.
Businesses and organizations looking to benefit from the Northern Ontario Exports Program are equipped with the tools needed to fuel their growth and competitive edge. By integrating financial assistance with training and market exposure, the program serves as a powerful enabler for regional businesses to expand globally. Consequently, it not only contributes to the organizations' success but also plays a pivotal role in reinforcing Northern Ontario's economic development, promoting innovation, and enhancing the region's visibility on the global stage.
