BDC Advisory Services – Sales and Marketing ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) - Canadian-owned businesses - Businesses across all sectors and industries - Sole proprietors and partnerships - Incorporated companies - Businesses at various growth stages (startup to established) - Businesses seeking to scale sales operations ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Advisory services (non-repayable funding for professional guidance) - Cost Coverage: BDC typically subsidizes a portion of advisory service fees; the business covers remaining costs through cost-sharing arrangements - No Direct Cash Grant: Funding is provided as subsidized access to expert consultants rather than direct capital - Variable Investment: Actual out-of-pocket costs depend on engagement scope and duration - Repayability: Services are non-repayable; no loan obligation ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Sales strategy development and planning - Marketing strategy formulation and optimization - Sales team coaching and capability building - Customer acquisition and retention strategies - Go-to-market planning - Sales process improvement and implementation - Pricing strategy and revenue optimization - Brand positioning and messaging development - Digital marketing and online sales channel development - Performance metrics and KPI establishment - Knowledge transfer and internal team training ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Commitment Required: Business must be actively engaged and committed to implementing recommendations - Action-Oriented Focus: Advisory services emphasize practical, implementable solutions—not theoretical consultation only - Timeline: Engagements typically span 3–6 months depending on scope - Performance Metrics: Progress tracked through implementation of strategy milestones and agreed-upon objectives - Internal Participation: Key business decision-makers must participate in coaching and planning sessions - Business Viability: Business must demonstrate financial stability and viable business model - Progress Reviews: Regular check-ins and milestone reviews required to maintain funding support - Implementation Responsibility: Business is responsible for executing the developed strategy plan