EDC — Company InSight ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) - Canadian exporters and businesses exploring international markets - Private sector companies with a focus on export potential - Businesses at various stages of internationalization (pre-export to established exporters) - Organizations seeking to validate or expand market entry strategies ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Non-repayable contribution/advisory service subsidy - Funding Model: Cost-sharing arrangement (Export Development Canada covers a portion of service costs) - Typical Coverage: EDC subsidizes a percentage of professional advisory fees; participant pays remaining balance - No Loan Component: This is a grant-based program, not a loan - Budget Flexibility: Funding amounts vary based on scope and complexity of market research/due diligence required ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Market research and competitive analysis in target international markets - Risk assessment and due diligence on potential international partners (agents, distributors, buyers) - Customer/buyer validation and creditworthiness evaluation - Business environment and regulatory landscape analysis - Data-driven market intelligence reports and insights - Professional consulting fees for international market entry strategy - Partner identification and vetting services ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Commitment Required: Applicant must demonstrate genuine intent to pursue international business opportunities - Matching Participation: Business must contribute financially to the advisory engagement (cost-share model) - Decision-Making Focus: Funding is contingent on using insights to make informed go/no-go decisions about market entry or partner relationships - Eligibility Verification: EDC conducts company assessment before approval - Timeline: Varies by engagement scope; typically completed within defined project phases - Deliverables: Professional reports, market assessments, and partner evaluation documentation provided upon completion - Post-Program Engagement: Results intended to support future EDC financing or trade services if expansion proceeds