E-tools for Exporting
Highlights
The Export Market Access Program (EMAP) and E-tools for Exporting Program (E for E) offer a fantastic opportunity for your business to expand into international markets. You can receive up to 45% of eligible costs, with a maximum contribution of $15,000. This funding can be used for activities such as market research, strategy development, lead generation, and digital advertising. These programs are designed to help you market your products more effectively and grow your business globally.
What You Get:
- Financial assistance for market research, strategy development, and sales activities.
- Support for digital marketing efforts like SEO, social media strategy, and online ads.
- Coaching and mentoring on export-related activities.
Why Apply?
- Reimbursement-based funding ensures you only pay for successful projects.
- Expert guidance from consultants to help you navigate international markets.
- Quick evaluation process, usually within two weeks, so you can start your project promptly.
By participating in this program, you can enhance your export capabilities and increase your business's global reach. The application process is straightforward, and the benefits can significantly impact your growth and success in international markets.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Reimbursement
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- There are no repayment terms or interest rates. The financing is provided as a reimbursement after the project is completed.
Eligible Expenses:
- Professional/consulting fees for activities such as market research, strategy development, lead generation, sales activities, export-focused website additions, SEO, digital ads, social media strategy, and coaching on any of the above.
- Online advertising costs.
Ineligible Expenses:
- Costs associated with participating in a trade show.
- Printing of brochures.
- Production of trade show booth.
- HST.
Fees:
- There are no fees associated with this program.
Qualifications
- Must be a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME).
- Must have a Canada Revenue Agency Business Number.
- Business must be operating in Prince Edward Island.
Currently exporting or planning to start exporting.
Disqualifications:
- Businesses in the retail/wholesale sector.
- Real estate businesses.
- Government services.
- Personal or social services.
- Softwood lumber industry.
- Professional services such as marketing firms, creative agencies, business or fitness coaches (unless the project represents a unique and/or strategic opportunity with potential economic benefit to Atlantic Canada).
Description
This program offers your business financial assistance to help you market your products internationally. You can receive up to $15,000, covering 45% of eligible costs. The minimum project size is $5,000, and you will be reimbursed $2,250 for that amount.
Eligible activities include market research, strategy development, lead generation, sales activities, export-focused website additions, SEO, digital ads, social media strategy, and coaching. These activities can help you expand your reach and increase sales in new markets.
You must cover all project costs upfront. Once the project is complete, you will be reimbursed. This program is a great way to get expert help and make your business more competitive globally.
Program Steps
Complete the Online Application Form: Visit the program's website and fill out the online application form. Ensure you demonstrate how your business complies with the program’s objectives and guidelines.
Prepare Necessary Documentation: Gather the required documents to support your application. These include:
- Business plan
- Financial statements
- Consultant proposal(s)
- Details of intended use of funds
- Proof of Canada Revenue Agency Business Number
Attach Consultant Proposals: If you plan to hire consultants for eligible activities, attach their proposals to your application. Ensure each proposal outlines the scope of work, costs, and expected outcomes.
Submit the Application: Once you have completed the form and attached all necessary documents, submit your application through the program’s online portal.
Await Evaluation Outcome: After submission, LearnSphere will evaluate your application. You will be notified of the outcome, usually within two weeks.
Sign the Contract: If your application is approved, a contract will be issued between LearnSphere and your company. Review and sign the contract to formalize the agreement.
Select and Engage Consultants: Choose the consultants you will work with. Ensure they are at arm’s length from your company and their fees are at fair market value. Use the sample statement of work provided by the program as a guide.
Complete the Project: Work with your selected consultants to complete the project activities. Ensure all activities are finished within the six-month period.
Submit a Claim for Reimbursement: After the project is completed, submit a claim for reimbursement. Include all relevant invoices and proof of payment.
Receive Reimbursement: Once your claim is reviewed and accepted, LearnSphere will reimburse you for up to 45% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $15,000.