Exporting from Canada to the EU was already attractive thanks to CETA, but today’s challenging trade landscape has significantly increased the appeal. Venturing into a new market poses challenges, of course, but the Canadian government is offering support in this area to qualifying businesses. Let Cableroad guide you through the options.
Which support schemes are available for Canadian exporters to the EU?
GoEU: this project, focusing specifically on exports to the EU, is being carried out by Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC), a non-profit business incubator set up by the City of Toronto. Nearly CA$2.5m of the programme’s funding will come from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) with another CA$2.5m coming from the provincial government.
CanExport: this government-funded initiative aims to help Canadian businesses grow by expanding into international markets, including the EU. This scheme offers financial support with the investments involved.
Does my company qualify for government support?
GoEU is available for businesses based in the province of Ontario. It prioritises firms that need to diversify exports in response to tariff-related pressures, including those in automotive, steel, and related supply chains.
CanExport targets Canadian SMEs with 3–500 full-time employees and annual revenues between CA$300,000 and CA$100 million. For each proposed target country, the company must generally have generated less than CA$100,000 or less than 10% of its total international sales in that market during the previous two years.
What do the support schemes offer?
GoEU offers companies export‑readiness assessments, tailored advice and direct access to in-market European expertise. The programme leverages in-market support to provide on-the-ground insights, connections and partnership opportunities. The goal is to help businesses better understand EU market conditions, build partnerships, generate export prospects, and reduce EU entry risks.
CanExport offers financial support. One of the biggest hurdles businesses face when entering international markets is insufficient capital to cover the costs of expanding abroad. These expenses include travel, market research, legal advice, and promotional activities. The CanExport scheme covers up to 50% of eligible costs for market research, attending trade shows, or adapting marketing materials for new markets. Businesses can apply for up to CA$50,000 per project and up to CA$99,999 per year.
How can my company join up?
GoEU: fill in the online application form here.
CanExport: applications are made through the Government of Canada programme. The 2026–27 intake closed on 31 August 2026, so businesses should check the current programme page for the next intake and applicable requirements.
What support can new Canadian exporters get from Cableroad Fiscal Agents?
Cableroad Fiscal Agents is an established service provider based near the Dutch port of Rotterdam, the EU’s key logistics hub. We offer a range of relevant services to Canadian companies venturing into the EU market:
- As your Dutch fiscal representative, Cableroad can facilitate the use of the Netherlands’ Article 23 import VAT deferment mechanism for qualifying transactions. This means import VAT is accounted for through the Dutch VAT return rather than being paid upfront at the border, significantly reducing the cash-flow burden of importing into the EU.
- Where required and subject to review of the goods, transaction and applicable compliance requirements, Cableroad may also be able to provide an Importer of Record solution or help coordinate the appropriate customs structure. We can help identify relevant customs, VAT and other regulatory requirements before goods are shipped.
- For qualifying import-and-onward-supply transactions, Limited Fiscal Representation can provide Canadian exporters with a fast and cost-efficient route into the EU without first obtaining their own Dutch VAT registration or establishing an EU subsidiary.
Can Cableroad support my future activities in the EU?
Yes. Not every exporter needs the same structure. Cableroad can help determine whether Limited Fiscal Representation is appropriate for your initial EU activities or whether your own Dutch VAT registration and General Fiscal Representation provide a better long-term solution. As your European business develops, we can support structures involving warehousing, intra-EU B2B sales, B2C sales and OSS reporting, and can also support the transition to an EU entity where appropriate.
How do I contact Cableroad?
Our experts are happy to discuss your options with you. Just send an email to koen@cableroad.nl.