The federal government has launched the 2026–2027 intake of the CanExport SMEs program. The application window is open from February 4, 2026 to May 29, 2026 at 12 p.m. ET.

CanExport is a flagship federal initiative supporting Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises expanding into international markets. The program provides funding to help businesses pursue new export opportunities, including securing and leveraging their intellectual property abroad.

For 2026–2027, priority is given to projects in the defence sector and dual-use (civil-military) technologies under Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy.

The agricultural sector, including primary agriculture, agri-food, and agri-products, is no longer eligible. However, AgTech, agrotechnology, post-harvest food technology, agricultural machinery and equipment, and life sciences remain eligible.

Applicants may target up to five international markets. A project may target either the United States or other international markets, but not both. Priority is given to companies targeting non-U.S. markets.