Current Funds
In response to escalating U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal government has proposed a $5 billion Trade Diversification Corridor Fund (TDCF) aimed at reducing Canada's economic dependence on the United States. This fund is intended to invest in trade-enabling infrastructure such as ports, railways, highways, airports, and inland terminals, thereby facilitating access to alternative international markets and strengthening internal trade. The Liberals also plan to amend legislation to allow Canadian ports to collaborate rather than compete, optimizing operations and reducing redundancies. Additionally, the government aims to eliminate federal barriers to interprovincial trade and labor mobility, fostering a more integrated domestic market. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to bolster Canada's economic resilience and sovereignty in the face of external trade pressures.
Conversely, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's platform emphasizes a "Canada First" approach, focusing on economic independence through deregulation, tax reductions, and expedited resource development. The Conservatives propose establishing a National Energy Corridor to streamline the approval process for pipelines and mining projects, aiming to reduce permitting timelines to six months. They also advocate for the elimination of the federal carbon tax and the repeal of environmental assessment laws to accelerate resource projects. In terms of trade diversification, the Conservatives endorse the CANZUK initiative, seeking to establish free trade and mobility agreements with the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. These measures are designed to enhance Canada's economic autonomy and reduce reliance on the U.S. market.
Transportation Infrastructure Funding
The Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) is a $1.5 billion federal initiative launched by the Government of Canada to bolster the development of clean energy and transportation infrastructure essential for the sustainable growth of the country's critical minerals sector. Running through 2030, the CMIF offers two primary funding streams: one for preconstruction activities such as feasibility studies and Indigenous engagement, and another for shovel-ready projects involving construction and capacity-building efforts. Eligible applicants include provinces, territories, private businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and Indigenous groups. The fund aims to address infrastructure gaps that hinder the production and expansion of critical minerals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which are vital for clean technologies and national security. By supporting projects that enhance environmental performance, strengthen supply chains, and promote Indigenous participation, the CMIF plays a pivotal role in advancing Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy and positioning the country as a global leader in the critical minerals supply chain.
Stream 1 – Preconstruction: This stream funds activities such as feasibility studies, planning, design work, and Indigenous engagement necessary to advance projects toward a shovel-ready state. Applicants are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by April 30, 2025, with full applications due by June 27, 2025.
Stream 2 – Shovel Ready: This stream supports the deployment of shovel-ready projects, including site preparation, construction, and capacity-building efforts. Applicants are encouraged to submit an EOI by January 5, 2026, with full applications accepted until March 4, 2026, through a continuous intake process on a first-come, first-assessed basis.