Regional Tariff Response Initiative (CanNor)

Overview of the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (CanNor) program:

The Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) is part of the Government of Canada’s national strategy to defend Canadian jobs, industries, and supply chains from the impacts of international tariffs and countermeasures. Delivered through regional development agencies—including the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) in the territories—the RTRI provides targeted support to help small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) enhance productivity, cut costs, and expand into new markets.\ With a total investment of $1 billion over three years, the initiative promotes adaptation, innovation, and resilience among Canadian businesses affected by global trade volatility. Up to $150 million of this funding is specifically earmarked for SMEs in the Canadian steel sector to help them adjust to tariffs, stabilize domestic production, and increase competitiveness. Eligible projects may include digitization, automation, and technology integration; market development and diversification; optimization of global and domestic supply chains; reshoring of production and R&D activities; and recruitment of skilled personnel to enhance innovation capacity. The RTRI aligns with Canada’s broader goal of strengthening domestic trade, creating sustainable employment, and safeguarding industrial competitiveness against shifting international trade policies. CanNor collaborates with other federal departments, Indigenous organizations, and territorial governments to ensure that northern businesses have coordinated access to available federal supports.

Benefits of the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (CanNor) program:

• Repayable contributions to eligible businesses
• Non-repayable contributions up to $1 million may be made to eligible businesses
• Non-repayable contributions may be made to eligible not-for-profit entities

Eligibility criteria of the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (CanNor) program:

• To be filled when there is more information