Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) in the Prairie provinces
PrairiesCan is now accepting applications for the expanded Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) in the Prairie region. RTRI helps businesses and the not-for-profit organizations that support them respond to tariffs and trade disruptions. Funding can support short-term liquidity needs for businesses, as well as pivot projects that help businesses adapt, diversify and build resilience.
Apply today — Intake is open until December 31, 2028 or until all available funding is committed.
Support for businesses
RTRI offers two types of support for eligible businesses affected by tariffs and trade disruptions.
Liquidity assistance
Short-term, non-repayable funding to help businesses experiencing tariff-related financial pressures maintain Canadian operations and employment.
Eligible businesses can receive:
- up to $2 million in non-repayable funding
- up to 50% of eligible costs
- support for up to 12 months, ending no later than March 31, 2028
Pivot projects
Funding for projects that help businesses improve productivity and competitiveness and reduce their exposure to future trade disruptions.
Eligible businesses can receive:
- up to $1 million in non-repayable funding
- repayable funding for larger transformative projects
All pivot projects must be completed by March 31, 2029.
Eligible businesses can apply for liquidity assistance, pivot project funding, or both.
A business can receive up to $3 million in combined non-repayable funding: up to $2 million in liquidity assistance and up to $1 million for an eligible pivot project.
Support for not-for-profit organizations
RTRI also provides funding to not-for-profit organizations that help Prairie businesses respond to tariffs and trade disruptions.
Funding can support projects that help affected businesses:
- diversify markets and expand trade opportunities
- improve productivity and competitiveness
- strengthen supply chains
- access business support, market development and advisory services
Liquidity assistance is only available to eligible businesses and cannot be used by not-for-profit organizations for their own operating expenses.
Check not-for-profit eligibility
Additional information
RTRI is a $3.45 billion initiative and is part of the Government of Canada’s broader tariff response plan. Businesses that received RTRI funding before the September 2026 expansion may be eligible for additional support, subject to the program’s eligibility requirements.
Related initiatives
- RTRI is part of the national Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program.
- Canada Strong provides further support measures for businesses, workers, and employers impacted by tariffs.
Contact PrairiesCan
For additional RTRI information, contact us directly at one of our regional offices by calling 1-888-338-9378.
Help spread the word
Download and share our Regional Tariff Response Initiative information sheet (PDF) with businesses or organizations that may benefit from the program.