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PEI - Export Trade Assistance - Prince Edward Island - Canada
Open
Source verified April 10, 2026

PEI - Export Trade Assistance

Funding to explore new global opportunities in PEI
Funding available
$ 3,000
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Prince Edward Island, Canada
Who can apply

Eligible applicants for Export Trade Assistance must be businesses located in Prince Edward Island that are registered and actively operating in the province. They should be active exporters or export-ready businesses exporting products or services they manufacture, process, or develop for export. Additionally, these businesses must operate within one of the strategic sectors such as bioscience, aerospace and defence, advanced manufacturing and processing, food, seafood, and beverage processors/manufacturers, renewable energy and clean technology, information and communications technology, professional services, creative and cultural industries. First-of-its-kind exportable goods or services in other sectors may also be considered.

See full eligibility

Overview

Export Trade Assistance supports PEI-based small businesses that are active or export-ready by covering up to 40–75% of eligible costs, with a maximum non-repayable contribution of $3,000 per virtual trade activity and $3,000 per incoming buyer visit. Funding helps companies participate in Innovation PEI Global Trade missions and trade shows (including virtual initiatives) and bring qualified buyers or partners to the province.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals
  • Develop strategic partnerships
  • Optimize production processes
  • Access new markets
Eligible Funding
  • Maximum amount : 3,000 $
  • Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Location
  • Prince Edward Island
Legal structures
  • Sole proprietorship
  • For-profit business
Annual revenue
  • All revenue ranges
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • Startups

Next Steps

1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility

Activities funded

The Export Trade Assistance grant provides support to businesses in Prince Edward Island for activities aimed at enhancing their export capabilities. The eligible projects focus on facilitating participation in global trade initiatives and bringing potential buyers to the province.

  • Participation in outbound trade missions and trade shows coordinated by Innovation PEI, covering travel, accommodation, and per diem costs for up to two representatives per business.
  • Engagement in virtual trade activities, including registration fees, virtual booth setup, and digital marketing consultancy fees, with a limit of three activities per business annually.
  • Arranging visits for qualified buyers or partners to Prince Edward Island, covering travel, accommodation, and per diem costs, with a limit of two visits per business annually.

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

Eligible applicants for Export Trade Assistance must be businesses located in Prince Edward Island that are registered and actively operating in the province. They should be active exporters or export-ready businesses exporting products or services they manufacture, process, or develop for export. Additionally, these businesses must operate within one of the strategic sectors such as bioscience, aerospace and defence, advanced manufacturing and processing, food, seafood, and beverage processors/manufacturers, renewable energy and clean technology, information and communications technology, professional services, creative and cultural industries. First-of-its-kind exportable goods or services in other sectors may also be considered.

Who is not eligible

This grant excludes certain companies and industries due to their status or main activity. The restrictions aim to ensure that funds are directed toward strategic sectors aligned with the grant's objectives.

  • Retail and consumer service businesses.
  • Businesses with a defaulted outstanding debt obligation in the Province's Central Default Registry.

Eligible expenses

The Export Trade Assistance grant supports initiatives aimed at aiding Prince Edward Island businesses in expanding their global reach. The eligible activities focus on facilitating various trade-related tasks and promoting international business relations.

  • Participation in outbound trade missions and trade shows with associated travel-related expenses.
  • Engagement in virtual trade environments, including digital preparation and participation costs.
  • Bringing qualified buyers or partners to Prince Edward Island for facility visits or familiarization tours.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is available only to businesses located in Prince Edward Island, Canada. The geographical eligibility is exclusive to support local businesses in this region for export-related activities.

  • Businesses located in Prince Edward Island.

Selection criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects for the Export Trade Assistance grant are based on several key criteria to determine the potential benefits and viability of the proposed activities.

  • Potential for long-term viability.
  • Export sales potential.
  • Qualifications and track records of managers.
  • Economic benefit to the province and business.
  • Availability of assistance funds.
  • Employment creation.
  • Level of assistance from other government programs offered or available.

How to apply

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

  • Step 1: Consult with Trade Development Officer
    • Contact an Innovation PEI Trade Development Officer to discuss the suitability of your project for Export Trade Assistance.
    • Receive guidance on the application process.
    • If applicable, explore alternative funding programs with the officer.
  • Step 2: Prepare Your Application
    • Gather detailed business information and supporting documents including business history and description.
    • Provide annual sales figures and market details.
    • Outline the proposed project or activity, detailing its relation to your products/services.
    • Describe the economic benefits to both the organization and Prince Edward Island.
    • Prepare a detailed budget with estimated costs, supported by written quotations.
    • Detail export-related information, including export percentages and largest markets.
  • Step 3: Submit the Application
    • Complete and submit an application form before making any financial or legal commitments related to the project.
    • Ensure all uploaded files are clear, with entire documents visible and nothing cropped out.
    • Visit guidance pages if encountering issues with the online submission process.
  • Step 4: Await Application Review
    • Understand that complete applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Be prepared for additional evaluation based on criteria like long-term viability and economic benefits.

Additional information

This grant is designed to support PEI businesses in global trade activities with specific guidelines and a structured application process.

  • Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
  • Innovation PEI reserves the right to deny applications or payment requests if fraud is suspected.
  • An application must be submitted before any financial or legal commitment is made on the project.
  • Further application details include the history and description of the business, annual sales and market details, and a detailed budget of estimated costs supported by written quotations.

Frequently Asked Questions about the PEI - Export Trade Assistance Program

What is the PEI - Export Trade Assistance?

Export Trade Assistance supports PEI-based small businesses that are active or export-ready by covering up to 40–75% of eligible costs, with a maximum non-repayable contribution of $3,000 per virtual trade activity and $3,000 per incoming buyer visit. Funding helps companies participate in Innovation PEI Global Trade missions and trade shows (including virtual initiatives) and bring qualified buyers or partners to the province.

How much funding can be received?

PEI - Export Trade Assistance Funds up to 75% of admissible expenses, capped at $3,000 per project.

Who is eligible for the PEI - Export Trade Assistance program?

To be eligible for the PEI - Export Trade Assistance program, you must: The business must be located and actively operating in Prince Edward Island. The business must be an active exporter or export-ready. The business must operate within designated strategic sectors, such as bioscience, aerospace and defence, or information and communications technology.

What expenses are eligible under PEI - Export Trade Assistance?

The Export Trade Assistance grant provides support to businesses in Prince Edward Island for activities aimed at enhancing their export capabilities. The eligible projects focus on facilitating participation in global trade initiatives and bringing potential buyers to the province. Participation in outbound trade missions and trade shows coordinated by Innovation PEI, covering travel, accommodation, and per diem costs for up to two representatives per business. Engagement in virtual trade activities, including registration fees, virtual booth setup, and digital marketing consultancy fees, with a limit of three activities per business annually. Arranging visits for qualified buyers or partners to Prince Edward Island, covering travel, accommodation, and per diem costs, with a limit of two visits per business annually.

Who can I contact for more information about the PEI - Export Trade Assistance?

You can contact Government of Prince Edward Island (PEI).

Where is the PEI - Export Trade Assistance available?

The PEI - Export Trade Assistance program is available the province of Prince Edward Island.

Is the PEI - Export Trade Assistance a grant, loan, or tax credit?

PEI - Export Trade Assistance is a Grant and Funding