The Export Market Access Program (EMAP)

Overview of the The Export Market Access Program (EMAP) program:

The Export Funding for PEI Businesses program, managed by LearnSphere Canada, provides support to small and medium-sized businesses located in Prince Edward Island (PEI) that are aiming to enter new export markets or enhance their current exporting operations. This initiative is funded by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Province of Prince Edward Island, and is delivered by LearnSphere. The program is designed to help businesses overcome the barriers of international trade and reach new customers outside of PEI. Through the program, eligible businesses can receive financial assistance to partially cover costs related to marketing, international business development, and export-related planning. Typical activities include attendance at trade shows and missions, marketing material development, participation in e-commerce upgrades, and consultations to develop export plans or strategies. This financial support enables PEI-based SMEs to improve market readiness, adapt their marketing and communications for global audiences, and build relationships that lead to international growth. The program is specifically targeted at businesses with existing operations in PEI that have the potential and motivation to export, or who are already exporting and want to grow. Funding is offered as a reimbursement for eligible expenses after completion of the approved activity, and applicants must complete the application process before incurring any expenses.

Benefits of the The Export Market Access Program (EMAP) program:

• Up to 65% cost reimbursement (max $15,000 per project)
• Supports marketing activities for new export markets
• Assistance with travel and trade show participation
• Eligible support for consulting services to develop export strategies
• Helps small businesses build international competitiveness
• Flexible and business-specific application of funds
• Encourages repeat applications for multiple export initiatives
• No repayment required if funding conditions are met

Eligibility criteria of the The Export Market Access Program (EMAP) program:

• Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Be a small or medium-sized business (SME)
• Be registered and operating in Prince Edward Island
• Have export potential or be currently exporting
• Be privately owned and for-profit
• Not be receiving support for the same activity from other government export programs
• Submit a detailed application before incurring any project expenses
• Eligible activities may include:
• Developing or translating marketing materials
• Website localization or e-commerce platform enhancement
• Attending or exhibiting at trade shows
• Hiring consultants for export readiness assessments or strategy planning
• Business-to-business travel for export opportunities