Update:
The federal government announced new actions today in order to help businesses navigate the challenges of COVID-19 in the global marketplace.
The CanExport SMEs program launched in 2016 to help small business owners and entrepreneurs break into new international markets, with funding of up to $75,000 to cover travel costs and other expenses.
With international travel restricted due to COVID-19, the CanExport SMEs program is pivoting to now help small businesses:
- develop and expand their e-commerce presence by covering partial costs associated with online sales platforms and digital strategy consulting, as well as advertising and search engine optimization
- attend virtual trade shows and other business-to-business events
- navigate new COVID-19-related trade barriers by helping pay for new international market certifications and requirements
According to a press release issued today, "This new support will help hundreds of small businesses in the coming months explore new opportunities to sell their world-class Canadian products and services in the international marketplace, grow their businesses, and create good jobs for Canadians."
Small business owners and entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for CanExport SMEs program funding.
Original story:
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is slated to hold a media conference at 11:30 a.m. today.
Trudeau will make the announcement with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland, and Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade Mary Ng. Chief Public Health Officer of Canada Dr. Theresa Tam and Deputy Chief Public Health Officer of Canada Dr. Howard Njoo will be in attendance.
Village Media will carry the livestream, so stay tuned.
