Team Canada Atlantic Missions

Increasing export activity in Atlantic Canada and attracting foreign direct investment to the region are key priorities of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). Through Team Canada Atlantic missions, ACOA works with local companies and other partners in the region to achieve these goals.

Team Canada Atlantic missions are one of the five components of ACOA’s Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (ATIP).

Why Team Canada Atlantic missions?

Team Canada Atlantic missions offer export-ready businesses in Atlantic Canada the training, partnerships and connections they need to successfully enter international markets, particularly those in the United States and other strategically selected international markets.

These missions also provide the opportunity to promote the region among key decision makers as a profitable place to do business.

How do they work?

Atlantic Canadian trade specialists identify a target market in the United States or in other strategically selected international market.

ACOA and its partners recruit export-ready companies in two categories: business (10 from each province)and associate delegates. The key criteria for all: export readiness. Team Canada Atlantic missions travel to a selected target market up to three times within a 24-month period. Typically, the first mission involves pre-arranged meetings with potential customers, networking events, and a Taste of Atlantic Canada reception.

A second mission offers participants a minimum of six prearranged meetings with potential customers and partners from the area and a Taste of Atlantic Canada reception. The third mission is usually sector specific and further explores the market.

What assistance is available?

ACOA will provide financial assistance for up to 75% of eligible costs for the mission, including logistics, matchmaking services, meeting rooms, networking events, promotional activities, pre-mission training and support, and post-mission follow-up consultation service.

Participating companies pay a registration fee that covers the cost of their air and ground transportation. Companies are responsible for all costs related to their own accommodation and meals during the mission.

Who can participate?

Atlantic Canadian companies that are export-ready and interested in tapping into an international market can apply to participate in Team Canada Atlantic missions as a business or an associate delegate.

Questions?

To find out more about ATIP or the Trade Education and Skills Development initiative, contact your nearest ACOA regional office.