Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) | Export Planning & Training

The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) provides the tools, connections, and knowledge needed to successfully enter and grow in new markets.

TAP into expert knowledge

TAP is offered by Calgary Economic Development in conjunction with the Government of Alberta. The four-session program is free for Alberta-based businesses and focuses on accelerating your strategic development and grounding you in the export basics. Entrepreneurs receive:

Customized, face-to-face coaching and advice.
Advice on navigating the global trade system.
Access to experts and thought leaders.
A grounding in international best practices.
Help with developing and executing an export plan.

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How TAP works

In the course of four sessions, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to take on the world.

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Phase 1: Onboard

TAP kicks off with a two-day workshop. You’ll learn about exporting resources, hear from experts in key functions of international trade, meet your peers, exchange ideas and get help tackling export challenges.

Phase 2: Develop

On day three of the program, participants return for a daylong session devoted to creating an export plan. Get hands-on support from expert advisors to get started on a plan that details strategic objectives, outlines market entry methods and includes an international marketing plan.

Phase 3: Activate

Participants develop their trade plans over the course of three weeks. During this time, export advisors will guide them and help create a realistic plan that integrates with their business strategy.

Phase 4: Accelerate

The final day of the program gives participants individual mentoring sessions with our expert partners. Mentors offer constructive feedback and help you explore solutions and next steps.

TAP testimonials

CarbonStone Designs (TAP 47) - Cameron Curilla

"The TAP program was a phenomenal experience that is greatly supported many aspects of our business operations and has helped us gain significant insight into all aspects of international expansion. We highly recommend this program to our small business peers ready to export. "

Chromacare Labs (TAP 33) - Christiaan Fulton

"The TAP program was the single most helpful program I've been a part of over my two years in the tech ecosystem. Great connections at the workshops and valuable contacts with people who are helping us navigate the complex arena of Global Exports."

Traverse Analytics (TAP 48) - Amber Rushton

"The trade accelerator program left me genuinely energized. As a founder, it pushed me to slow down, reflect, and then confidently lean into the global opportunities ahead of us. The TAP team and mentors challenged my thinking in all the right ways, helping me sharpen our strategy and expand our vision. Traverse analytics is walking away with a clear actionable roadmap and a renewed sense of momentum."

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TAP workshops 2026

Two people working with paper and tablet at table.

TAP 52 Calgary

June 16, in-person

June 17, in-person

June 18, in-person

July 3, export plan due

July 22, mentorship day, virtual

Group of people discussing with laptops and notebooks at table.

TAP 53 Medicine Hat

Sept. 15, in-person

Sept. 16, in-person

Sept. 17, in-person

Oct. 5, export plan due

Oct. 15, mentorship day, virtual

Group of participants reviewing papers in classroom-style setting.

TAP 54 Edmonton

Oct. 20, in-person

Oct. 21, in-person

Oct. 27, in-person

Nov. 13, export plan due

Nov. 25, mentorship day, virtual

Team marking charts on wall during meeting.

TAP 55 Calgary

Nov. 17, in-person

Nov. 18, in-person

Nov. 24, in-person

Dec. 4, export plan due

Dec. 10, mentorship day, virtual

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Apply to TAP

Trade Deal Map

Companies that take part in TAP are finding international success. With ongoing support and guidance from Calgary Economic Development, these enterprises are achieving global growth.

Each pin on this map marks a done deal.

Who is eligible

TAP is open to businesses that:

Have taken exploratory steps to expand into new markets, or are already exporting and seeking to diversify.
Had a minimum of $50,000 revenue in last fiscal year (excluding tech startups).
Will dedicate one or more senior representatives to participate.
Have a product, service or technology with strong competitive advantage (quality or patent protection).
Are good corporate citizens, free from corruption, environmental and human rights violations.

If you do not meet a certain requirement, you may still apply. Please contact us after submitting the form to discuss your application.

If you meet all the requirements, please complete the application.

Apply now