Overview
The Europe Market Development Programme (EMDP) was designed to help
companies in Atlantic Canada diversify exports and access under-developed
European markets. Delivered in partnership with federal and provincial governments,
the programme supported business resilience by enabling firms to take advantage of
opportunities created by the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement
(CETA).
Challenge
Despite favourable trade conditions, many Atlantic Canadian companies had limited
exposure to European markets. The programme launched during the COVID-19
pandemic, creating additional challenges around recruitment, remote engagement,
and building trust without in-market travel.
Approach
A tailored market development approach was delivered for each company, beginning
with in-depth market research and the creation of a strategic market workplan. Target
customers and partners were identified, validated, and engaged through structured
outreach, with regular reporting and oversight throughout delivery.
Results & Impact
10 companies have been supported to date, with all participants securing pre-
qualified European meetings and developing opportunity pipelines in the hundreds of
thousands of dollars. Several firms progressed to trial orders and proof-of-concepts,
with ongoing commercial engagement continuing beyond the programme.
