Marketing Grants in Canada 2026 — Fund Your Advertising, Website & Digital Marketing
Government Programmes That Fund Marketing
Most Canadian business owners don't know the government will pay for their marketing. Several federal and provincial programmes cover advertising, website development, digital marketing, trade show materials, and promotional campaigns. Here's every programme that funds marketing activities in 2026.
1. CanExport SMEs — Up to $50,000
The biggest marketing grant in Canada. CanExport reimburses 50% of international marketing costs:
- Trade show booths and travel
- Market research in target countries
- Promotional materials and brochures
- Website localization and translation
- Legal fees for international contracts
Who qualifies: Any Canadian business planning to export to a new market.
2. Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) — $15,000
CDAP covers digital marketing tools and implementation:
- E-commerce platform setup (Shopify, WooCommerce)
- CRM and email marketing tools
- SEO and digital advertising setup
- Social media management platforms
- Website redesign and optimization
3. Facade Improvement Grants — Signage & Storefront
Municipal CIP programmes cover 50-75% of exterior marketing assets: signage, awnings, window displays, exterior lighting, and storefront branding. Available in 63+ Ontario cities.
4. Starter Company Plus — $5,000
The $5,000 grant can be used for marketing expenses including website development, print materials, advertising, and promotional campaigns.
5. Provincial Marketing Programmes
Several provinces offer additional marketing support:
- Ontario: Ontario Creates (for media/creative businesses), Tourism Marketing Partnership
- BC: PacifiCan community development programmes
- Atlantic: ACOA marketing support for Atlantic businesses
- Quebec: PME MTL marketing acceleration programmes
How to Apply for Marketing Grants
- Document your marketing plan — what you want to spend, expected ROI, target market
- Get quotes — most programmes require 2-3 vendor quotes for marketing services
- Apply before spending — most grants require pre-approval. Don't spend first and apply later.
- Keep receipts — reimbursement programmes require proof of payment
- Get your application reviewed — our $99 review service catches the mistakes that get applications rejected
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use grant money for Google Ads?
Yes, under CDAP and some provincial programmes. Digital advertising is an eligible expense. Keep detailed records of ad spend and results.
Can I use grant money for social media marketing?
Yes. CDAP covers social media management tools and digital marketing implementation. CanExport covers social media campaigns targeting international markets.
How fast can I get the money?
CDAP: 6-10 weeks. CanExport: 8-12 weeks. Facade grants: varies by municipality, typically 4-8 weeks.
Need Help With Your Application?
93% of grant applications are rejected. Don't be one of them.