Liquidity Support Now Available to Tariff-Impacted companies

Canada's regional development agencies on Sept. 8, 2026, published detailed guidelines for the expanded Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), including a new liquidity support stream.  This funding is intended to assist SME firms impacted by US Tariffs.

Liquidity Assistance

Liquidity assistance (non-repayable loans) have been introduced as of September 8th. This is described as:

Funding for businesses experiencing tariff-related financial pressures. This support is intended to help companies maintain Canadian operations and retain employees while responding to trade disruptions and planning for longer-term resilience.

Members should review the guidelines for their region and prepare applications now — agencies process applications on a continuous basis until funds are committed.

  • The $1.5-billion expansion brings total RTRI funding to $3.45 billion over four years

  • A new liquidity assistance stream provides up to $2 million in non-repayable funding to companies, covering up to 50% of eligible costs, for a period of up to 12 months ending no later than March 31, 2028

  • Combined non-repayable funding is capped at $3 million per business: up to $2 million in liquidity assistance plus up to $1 million for a non-repayable pivot project

  • Total RTRI funding, including repayable contributions, is capped at $20 million per business

  • Liquidity support requires minimum annual revenue of $1 million and proof of viability before tariffs were imposed 

  • Liquidity support is open to all tariff-impacted sectors, including apparel and textiles

  • Pivot projects may run to March 31, 2029 in some regions.

  • Confirm all details concerning eligibility and deadlines with your regional development agency.  

Other federal programs

This and other federal government support programs are listed HERE

 

Action for members

  • Confirm eligibility using your regional agency's criteria; requirements may vary by region

  • Assemble financial statements and other materials documenting tariff impact

  • Apply early; funding is allocated on a first-come basis until budgets are exhausted

Links

 

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  • Group(s): Membership: Individual Corporate Member, Membership: Regular
  • Released: September 13th, 2026 08:02 AM

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