Trade Accelerator Program
Highlights
The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is designed for businesses like yours, ready to expand into international markets. This program offers a unique opportunity to create a customized export business plan, vetted by top industry experts. TAP provides hands-on workshops, personalized coaching, and valuable peer interactions to help you navigate the complexities of global trade.
Why should you apply?
- Expert Guidance: Receive direct mentorship from industry leaders.
- Comprehensive Learning: Access expertly curated content on a virtual platform.
- Strategic Planning: Develop a high-quality export plan integrated with your business strategy.
What’s in it for you?
- Increased Revenue: TAP graduates report an average of 18% growth.
- Global Reach: 69% of participants now export to markets like China, India, and the U.S.
- Tailored Support: Benefit from individual mentoring sessions to refine your export strategy.
Qualifying for TAP is straightforward, and the program is structured to ensure you gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed internationally.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Grant
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- No repayment required.
- No interest rates applicable.
Eligible Expenses:
- Market research and analysis.
- Development of export plans.
- Participation in trade missions and trade shows.
- Marketing and promotional activities for international markets.
- Training and capacity building related to export activities.
Ineligible Expenses:
- Routine operational costs (e.g., rent, utilities).
- Salaries and wages not directly related to export activities.
- Purchase of capital assets (e.g., machinery, vehicles).
- Any expenses incurred before the approval of the grant.
Fees:
- No application or processing fees.
Qualifications
- Must be a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME).
- Must be based in Canada.
- Must have a Canada Revenue Agency Business Number.
- Must be currently exporting or planning to start exporting.
- Must be committed to participating in a 4-6 week program.
Must be willing to develop and implement a strategic export business plan.
Disqualifications:
- Businesses not based in Canada.
- Businesses not planning to export.
- Businesses unwilling to commit to the full duration of the program.
Description
This program helps your business grow internationally. You can get expert advice and create a custom export plan. The program offers hands-on workshops, personalized coaching, and valuable networking opportunities.
You can receive up to $75,000 to help with costs like market research, marketing, and travel. This money can be used to explore new markets, attend trade shows, or meet potential clients abroad.
There is no need to pay back the money. The program is funded by the government to support your business's expansion. This is a great chance to take your business to the next level and reach new customers worldwide.
Program Steps
Register for an Information Session: Sign up for a free TAP info session to learn more about the program and its benefits.
Complete the Online Application Form: Visit the TAP website and fill out the application form with your business details.
Prepare Documentation: Gather the necessary documents to support your application. These typically include:
- Business Plan
- Financial Statements (last two years)
- Export Plan (if available)
- Market Research Data
- Company Profile
Submit Application: Upload the completed application form and required documents through the TAP online portal.
Attend Initial Workshops: Participate in the initial workshops to familiarize yourself with exporting resources and key components of international trade.
Develop Export Plan: Work with Canadian export advisors to develop a comprehensive export plan, focusing on strategic objectives, market entry methods, international marketing, and supply chains.
Receive Feedback: Submit your export plan for review and receive a written assessment from TAP experts.
Participate in Mentoring Sessions: Engage in individual mentoring sessions with industry experts to refine your export plan and explore potential solutions.
Finalize Export Plan: Incorporate feedback and finalize your export plan, ensuring it aligns with your overall business strategy.
Implement Export Plan: Begin implementing your export plan with the support and guidance of TAP advisors and mentors.