Manitoba Export Development Program (EDP)

Insider Tip

Apply before the trade show — retroactive applications are not accepted. The 75% reimbursement for exhibitors is one of the most generous provincial trade show support rates in Canada. The 2-in-5-years rule for specific shows encourages diversification — use it strategically to explore new markets rather than returning to the same show annually. Combine with federal CanExport for the same trade show to cover nearly all costs. The Incoming Buyer stream ($5,000) is underutilized and excellent for hosting foreign buyers at your Manitoba facility.

Success Profile

Manitoba manufacturers, food processors, agricultural exporters, and technology companies expanding into international markets. Companies attending major industry trade shows for the first time see the highest ROI. Businesses in the $1M-$20M annual sales range get the most relative benefit. Active exporters building systematic international market development plans.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications assessed on: company meets revenue requirements ($30K-$50M annual sales), event is a legitimate B2B tradeshow or trade mission outside Manitoba, company has not attended the same show more than 2 times in past 5 years, company is registered in good standing in Manitoba, majority of workforce resides in Manitoba, application submitted at least 60 days before the event.

Application Steps

Required Documents 6

Eligible Expenses 12

• Trade show/mission registration fees and passes
• Booth space rental
• Basic booth furnishing rentals (carpet, power, Wi-Fi, display case, table, chairs)
• Economy or premium economy airfare (up to $5,000 per company per event, up to 2 employees)
• Accommodations (up to $1,500/person, $3,000/company per event, one day before/after event)
• Ground transportation (mileage at provincial rates, taxis/Uber to airport/hotel/venue, rail, vehicle rental)
• Shipping of trade show equipment and materials
• Translation of marketing materials for the specific event
• Accredited interpreter fees (non-employee)
• Market research with defined objectives
• Trade preparedness training registration fees
• Membership fees required for event registration

Ineligible Expenses 17

• Development of marketing materials (other than translation)
• Virtual tradeshows or missions
• Conferences without a tradeshow component
• Company labour at the booth
• Per diem, food, and meal costs
• Cost of goods or product samples
• Extra baggage beyond 2 standard checked bags
• Purchase of booth furnishings (rentals only)
• Sponsorship costs
• Lead capture systems and sales/prospecting tools
• Online vacation packages or flights booked with points
• Seat upgrades or selection fees
• Travel insurance
• Change or cancellation fees
• Accommodation incidentals or timeshare costs
• Non-event-related membership fees
• Direct-to-consumer events (B2B events only)

Intake Periods

Continuous intake year-round until program funds are fully committed. Applications for current fiscal year (April 1 - March 31) accepted throughout the year. Applications for future fiscal year events accepted starting January 1. Submit at least 60 days before event date. 2025/26 intake closed; 2026/27 applications open for events April 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027.

Deadline Notes

2025/26 intake is now closed. Applications are now being accepted for the 2026/27 fiscal year (April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027). Submit applications before the trade show or event. Must not have attended the event before applying.

Open Application Portal →

Ineligible Organizations

• Publicly traded companies
• Non-profit organizations
• Government employees and Crown corporations
• Municipalities
• Educational institutions
• External consultants, brokers, or agents applying on behalf of companies
• Companies in tax arrears or receivership
• Companies with annual sales below $30,000 or above $50,000,000
• Companies with fewer than 50% of workforce residing in Manitoba

Compatible Programs

Clawback Risk

None Risk

None. Reimbursement-only model — funds flow after costs are paid, documented, and verified. No repayment obligation. Worst case: claim is partially denied if expenses are ineligible or documentation is incomplete.