Cowichan businesses exporting across the border now have access to a new funding program designed to make trade easier, smoother, and more cost-effective. The CUSMA Compliance Advisory Services Initiative (CCASI) is part of B.C.’s Export Navigator program and provides direct financial support to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) stay compliant under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
What is CUSMA and Why Compliance Matters
The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) replaced NAFTA in 2020 and sets the rules for trade between the three countries. Canada, the United States, and Mexico created the largest free trade region in the world, generating economic growth and helping to raise the standard of living for the people of all three member countries. While the agreement reduces or eliminates many tariffs, businesses must demonstrate that their goods qualify under CUSMA rules to benefit.
Becoming compliant typically involves steps such as:
- Determining the country of origin of your goods using rules of origin
- Preparing and maintaining a CUSMA certificate of origin
- Keeping detailed records of materials and production processes
- Ensuring your shipping and customs documentation clearly identifies CUSMA eligibility
Without this process, goods may be subject to regular tariffs or face delays at the border. That’s why programs like CCASI are valuable — they help cover the costs of working with experts to ensure compliance is done correctly.
What the Program Offers
- Reimbursement of up to 50% of costs, to a maximum of $5,000
- Eligible expenses include hiring:
- Customs brokers
- Trade consultants
- Trade lawyers
- Compliance specialists
- Service providers can be based in either Canada or the U.S.
This program is first-come, first-served and runs until March 2026 or until all funds are allocated.
Who Can Apply
You may qualify if your business:
- Is registered in British Columbia
- Has exported to the United States in the past 12 months
- Incurred eligible costs on or after April 1, 2025
This last point is important. Only expenses made after April 1, 2025 can be reimbursed through the program. That means if your business recently paid a customs broker, trade lawyer, or compliance consultant to help with CUSMA requirements, and the invoice is dated April 1, 2025 or later, you may be able to recover up to 50% of those costs (to a maximum of $5,000).
If you have invoices from before that date, they won’t qualify. However, any upcoming costs related to compliance services between now and March 2026 are eligible — so businesses are encouraged to plan ahead and apply early, before funds run out.
You do not need to be an existing Export Navigator client to apply.
Who Can You Hire With This Funding?
The program is flexible in who you can work with, as long as the services directly support CUSMA compliance. Eligible service providers include:
- Customs brokers – to ensure documentation and tariff classifications are accurate at the border
- Trade consultants – to provide tailored advice on rules of origin, market access, and compliance strategies
- Trade lawyers – to review contracts, agreements, or disputes related to CUSMA requirements
- Compliance specialists – to assess risk, review internal processes, and confirm your business meets trade regulations
Providers may be located in Canada or the U.S., giving businesses a wide range of options to choose from.
Why This Matters for Cowichan Businesses
Exporting to the U.S. is a critical growth opportunity for many Cowichan companies—from wineries and food producers to manufacturers and craft businesses. But navigating the complexities of CUSMA rules can be costly and time-consuming. This program helps reduce financial barriers, supports compliance, and ensures your products qualify for tariff reductions and smoother cross-border trade.
With professional advisory services partially funded, businesses can:
- Avoid costly compliance mistakes
- Reduce border delays
- Strengthen long-term export strategies
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form
- Receive approval and hire an eligible service provider
- Submit receipts for reimbursement
- Access up to $5,000 in funding support
Applications are open now and processed on a rolling basis.
Learn More & Apply
Visit the Export Navigator website for full program details and to apply.
