Interested in applying?

Check eligibility

About the Trade Mission

We are inviting applications to join a trade mission to Ottawa and Toronto in Canada in October 2026.

The visit will help Northern Ireland technology companies explore opportunities across Canada's federal government, public sector and private sector technology markets.

The programme will include government and industry engagements, targeted introductions, market briefings, networking opportunities and one-to-one business meetings. These activities are designed to help companies build relationships with potential customers, partners and key industry stakeholders.

Canada is investing in the modernisation of digital public services and emerging technologies, creating opportunities for innovative technology companies.

Opportunities are particularly strong for businesses offering:

  • Artificial intelligence (AI) solutions
  • Cloud services
  • Cybersecurity products and services
  • GovTech solutions
  • Data and digital technologies 

Why Ottawa?

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and home to the federal government, making it an important location for companies interested in public sector opportunities. The city is also home to Kanata North, Canada’s largest technology hub, with companies operating across AI, cybersecurity, cloud, software as a service (SaaS), digital health and defence technology.

Ottawa’s ecosystem offers a strong base for introductions, innovation partnerships and market validation.

Why Toronto?

Toronto is one of North America’s leading technology and innovation centres with strong activity across deep enterprise, financial services and scale-up activity. The city is also home to MaRS, a major innovation hub that supports startups and scale-ups through access to customers, investors, talent and advisors.  

This makes Toronto a strong location for buyer engagement, partner development and commercial follow-up.

Who should consider participating the trade mission?

This trade mission is suitable for Northern Ireland technology companies looking to grow their business in Canada’s digital transformation and AI market, particularly those offering solutions in:

  • Digital transformation
  • Cloud services and AI
  • Cyber security  
  • Defence and security technology
  • GovTech
  • Data analytics
  • Health and social care technology 

Who is eligible to join the trade mission?

Our international exhibitions and trade missions are open to all Invest Northern Ireland client companies that meet the eligibility criteria. If you would like more information on becoming a client, see How we support business. 
 
Spaces are limited and we will allocate on a first come, first served basis, subject to receiving your completed application form and payment. 

Cost

£500+VAT  

What are the benefits of participating in the trade mission?

Benefits of participating in the trade mission include:

  • In-market business development and lead generation support
  • Market briefings and pitch preparation support
  • One-to-one business meetings with potential customers, partners and key stakeholders
  • Opportunities to attend stakeholder briefings, networking events and receptions
  • Travel and accommodation grant assistance of £600 per person, for up to two company employees* 
     

*Travel and accommodation grant assistance is subject to the completion of a short evaluation questionnaire.

Interested in participating in the trade mission?

Is your business eligible?

Answer the following questions to find out if you can apply.

Q1 - Is your business currently based in Northern Ireland?
Q2 - Can your product or service be sold to customers outside Northern Ireland?
Q3 - Are you an existing Invest Northern Ireland customer?

It is critical to understand any regulatory, compliance, and procedural issues that might affect your product or service in your target market.

A rule or regulation could stop you exporting, therefore it makes sense to find out before you spend any time or money exploring your export options.

Based on your answers your business is eligible to apply for this event.

Complete the following form and one of our international trade advisors will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

For information on how we use your personal data including your rights, see our privacy notice.

Based on your answers, you should discuss your business’ support needs with an Invest NI advisor.

Complete the following form and one of our advisors will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

Sorry, based on your answers your business does not meet the eligibility criteria for support from Invest NI

Considering doing business with Northern Ireland? Find out more about Northern Ireland’s highly skilled talent, excellent infrastructure, competitive costs, and supportive, business-friendly environment – see Why Northern Ireland?

The UK Government’s Department for Business and Trade offers a wide range of free export support. To find out more, visit great.gov.uk.

Based on your answers, your business is not eligible to receive support to attend this event.

Find more about Invest NI’s support for business.

The nibusinessinfo.co.uk website offers a wide range of help, support and guidance to help you start, run and grow a business.