Regional Tariff Response Initiative in Atlantic Canada

Who can apply for RTRI funding?

Includes those currently eligible under REGI program authorities that are directly or indirectly impacted by the ongoing trade war, including imposed tariffs by the U.S. and China and Canadian counter-tariffs, or are a not-for-profit organization or provincial entity providing support to businesses impacted by the tariffs.

Eligible recipients include:

• Incorporated companies, corporations, co-operatives, or individuals operating a business
• Indigenous-owned businesses and organizations
• Non-profit organizations that support businesses

In some cases, SMEs may receive non-repayable funding based on specific criteria.

Applicants must show that at least 25% of their sales are to the U.S. and/or to China, or demonstrate that they, or the businesses they support, have been directly affected by ongoing trade disruptions, including U.S. and China tariffs or Canadian countermeasures.

SMEs in the steel and auto sectors seeking non-repayable support are required to complete an attestation form, available on the Application for Financial Assistance page, and submit it with their application for financial assistance.

What types of activities are eligible for funding?

Eligible activities are focused on increasing productivity, driving growth and diversifying markets for SMEs and sectors affected by recent tariffs or countermeasures. Examples include:

• Investing in digitization, automation and technology to enhance productivity and competitiveness
• Developing and expanding markets to help SMEs find new customers
• Optimizing global supply chain logistics and ensuring compliance with standards to gain market access and/or enhance sales
• Strengthening domestic supply chains and facilitating internal trade to increase the resilience and competitiveness of SMEs and the reliability of domestic markets
• Reshoring production, research and development operations, and recruiting highly qualified personnel and expertise

Eligible costs may be retroactive up to 12 months before applying, but no earlier than March 21, 2025.

How to apply

To support applicants and stakeholders, ACOA is hosting information sessions to provide guidance on the program and application process. If you are interested in participating, please register online.

If you are unsure whether the Regional Tariff Response Initiative is right for you, please speak with your local ACOA program officer, or contact the office nearest you. If you're ready to apply, send us your application through the Application for Financial Assistance page.