2006-2007 Annual Report: Program for Export Market Development (PEMD)

Outline of the Program

The Program for Export Market Development, for Associations, provides financial support (contributions) to Canadian national sectoral associations for the generic export promotion of their industry's products or services. Eligible activities must relate to the improvement of market access or the development of market intelligence. In addition, activities must be for the benefit of the association's entire industry, members and non-members alike. These activities are particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises, which are often unable to afford such undertakings on their own.

There are three types of international business promotion activities that are funded by PEMD-Associations: direct contacts (such as trade shows, outgoing missions and incoming visits); marketing tools (such as web site development targeting foreign customers, print materials and other materials that promote the export of associations' goods and services); and other marketing activities (such as research, awards programs, and indirect marketing that promotes relationship building, or improves access to foreign markets).

The cost of these activities is shared between the association and the federal government. Annual non-repayable contributions range from a minimum of $20,000 to a maximum of $150,000. Through its assistance to associations, the program aims to meet the changing needs and expectations of the Canadian business community.

Each year, associations work alongside trade commissioners in Ottawa and at posts to develop their application. Trade Commissioner Service Officers at over 140 embassies and consulates around the world provide current information and advice on the merits of applications from the market viewpoint. This feedback on proposed PEMD-supported events from our posts is an essential criterion in the evaluation of a PEMD application. In addition to the post feedback, applications are also assessed according to export strategy, incrementality (the presence of new or expanded international market development initiatives), membership benefits and the association's performance in the past two years.