Agri Marketing Program - SME Component

Overview of the Agri Marketing Program - SME Component program:

The AgriMarketing Program is a federal initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), designed to enhance the export capacity and competitiveness of Canada's agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based product sectors. Administered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the programme supports national industry associations and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their efforts to develop and expand markets, particularly internationally. Funding is focused on activities that promote Canadian agricultural products abroad, strengthen Canada's brand as a supplier of safe, high-quality food, and provide companies with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate foreign markets. Eligible activities include market development, promotional campaigns, trade show participation, incoming buyer missions, export training, and more. While the programme supports domestic marketing, it prioritises international trade development. Applicants are expected to contribute a percentage of the costs, and the funding is issued as a cost-share contribution. This programme plays a vital role in building Canada's reputation globally as a reliable and competitive agricultural exporter, supporting both growth and innovation in the industry. Projects must align with programme priorities and are assessed for their potential impact on sector growth, innovation, and market access. The current iteration runs through to 2028, with funding decisions made on a rolling basis until the annual budget is allocated.

Benefits of the Agri Marketing Program - SME Component program:

• Cost-sharing funding for export marketing and promotional activities
• Access to international trade shows, fairs, and missions
• Branding support to promote Canadian products globally
• Opportunity to increase international sales and market presence
• Export training and market intelligence resources
• Increased brand recognition for Canadian products
• Support for sustainability and innovation in global trade
• Strengthened capacity to manage and overcome trade barriers

Eligibility criteria of the Agri Marketing Program - SME Component program:

• Eligible Applicants:
• Canadian for-profit small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• National industry and non-profit associations
• Indigenous groups and cooperatives
• Requirements:
• Applicants must be legal entities in Canada
• SME applicants must operate in the agriculture, agri-food, or agri-based products sector
• Applicants must show capacity to deliver the project and match required cost contributions
• Export-ready or export-interested businesses are eligible
• Projects must align with international market development or promotion goals
• Associations must represent a significant sectoral or cross-sectoral interest