Government Grant Funding Support Available for the Canadian Creative Arts Export Businesses of up to $2.5 million

Let’s face it, for many creative businesses, the biggest barrier to international growth is not talent or demand, it is the cost and complexity of scaling into global markets.  Export Development Canada, in collaboration with Canadian Heritage Canada, has created a program to help reduce that barrier and support for Canadian creative industries in competing internationally at scale.

This program supports profit and non-profit organizations working in creative and cultural industries so they can expand into international markets, increase global visibility and sales, develop export strategies and partnerships, scale production and distribution capabilities, strengthen long-term commercial sustainability.  The grant does not specifically include investment in protecting IP internationally.  However, it could be argued that amassing international portfolios in key international markets could be a part of international expansion strategies.  

Eligible Industries

This funding is targeted toward export-ready and export-growing creative businesses, including:

• Film and television production, animation and interactive digital media, music and sound production, publishing, performing arts, visual and applied arts, design industries and artistic craft and cultural enterprises

There are Two main funding streams are available:

1. Export Ready Stream 

2. Up to $2.5 million per application

3. Covers up to 75% of eligible project costs

4. Designed for established businesses ready to scale internationally

The next period for submitting a funding application for projects with expenses starting on April 1, 2027, will be announced in fall 2026. 

There are specific eligibility requirements.

Funding supports activities such as:

• development or implementation of digital or other technologies related to the international discoverability and monetization of Canadian content

• international market access

• facilitating the movement of exports to international markets 

• marketing and promotion

2. Export Development Stream

3. Up to $90,000 per fiscal year

4. Covers up to 75% of eligible costs

5. Designed for new and early-stage exporters building international reach

The period for submitting a funding application for projects with expenses occurring between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027 closed on July 8, 2026. 

There are specific eligibility requirements. 

Funding supports activities such as:

• export planning

• export training and mentorship

• international market readiness

• market development

Interested in Learning More?

If you are exploring funding opportunities to support your businesses’ international growth, we are happy to lend our support.