These are some of the ways we can help you develop and execute international export strategies.

One-on-One Export and Market Consulting
Through one-on-one consulting, our international trade specialists help small and medium-sized companies evaluate their export readiness, identify markets and opportunities and develop market access and expansion strategies. The also provide guidance on doing business in markets worldwide, and help companies qualify local representatives.

New Exporters to Border States (NEBS)
NEBS is a practical introduction to the basics of exporting to the United States. Organized in co-operation with the Canadian Consulates in Buffalo and Detroit, the two-day NEBS program combines briefings by experts with site visits to a U.S. border entry point and warehouse fulfillment facility. Participants learn about export pricing and financing; customs clearance procedures; selecting agents and distributors; warehousing and distribution; immigration considerations; banking, legal and insurance issues; and identifying new market opportunities.

We also offer an intensive half-day seminar on export fundamentals known as the "Reverse NEBS". Held in locations throughout Ontario, the seminar features expert speakers on customs clearance, U.S. banking and other topics for Ontario companies exporting to the U.S.

Seminars and Workshops
Market specific seminars and workshops provide Ontario exporters with forums to explore the opportunities in markets worldwide, develop knowledge of export fundamentals, and learn about successful market access strategies.

Virtual Trade Missions (VTMs)
Using videoconferencing, we host VTMs between Ontario exporters and foreign business people and market experts. VTMs offer a cost-effective means to identify new export opportunities, showcase your company, and "meet" with potential partners abroad.

Trade Missions and Exhibitions
Ontario exporters meet potential customers, distributors and decision-makers during trade missions and participating in Ontario showcases at international trade exhibitions. Through their participation in these programs, Ontario companies explore new market opportunities, and gain international exposure and access to key contacts in priority markets worldwide.

Capital Projects
Suppliers of capital goods and services benefit from the assistance of the International Trade Branch in securing international capital project opportunities. We facilitate the development of consortia, introduce key contacts at international financial institutions, and provide commercial advocacy services.

Community Export Development (CED)
CED programs assist economic development organizations in Ontario with initiatives to encourage local companies to expand internationally. Exporter workshops, First Steps in Exporting seminars and conferences introduce new and experienced exporters to export resources, and provide practical insights into the business of exporting.

Export Market Access Program
If your company has been in business for at least two years; has 5 or more employees; and records annual sales of $500,000 or more, you may qualify for a grant covering up to 50% of eligible costs incurred to develop export sales. Eligible activities under the Export Market Access: A Global Expansion Program (EMA) include market research, marketing tools, direct contacts, and foreign bidding projects. Apply today!

The Ontario Exporters Fund
Receive up to $5,000 to conduct an export readiness assessment and up to $50,000 to cover 50% of eligible costs associated with hiring an Export Manager through the Ontario Exporters Fund.

To be eligible, your Ontario SMEs must have between five and 500 employees, have been a registered company (federally or provincially) for a minimum of two years and operate in one of these sectors:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Aerospace
• Building Products and Construction
• Clean Technology (including renewable energy and environmental technologies)
• Exportable Professional Services (e.g., Architecture, Engineering, Urban Planning)
• ICT including Digital Media
• Life Sciences

See also: Calendar of Trade Events