Program Overview
What is the CCASI Program?
The CUSMA Compliance Advisory Services Initiative (CCASI) provided non-repayable matching contributions of up to $5,000 to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in British Columbia become compliant with the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
What does the term “CUSMA compliant” mean?
CUSMA compliant means meeting the regulatory, documentation, and procedural requirements to export goods or services to the U.S. and Mexico under the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement.
Who is providing the funding for the program?
The CCASI program is supported by the Government of Canada through Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan).
Eligibility & Funding
How much funding was available?
Eligible businesses received up to $5,000 in non-repayable matching funding to offset the costs of becoming CUSMA compliant.
Who was eligible to apply?
Businesses that are:
– Registered in British Columbia.
– For-profit.
– Have exported to the U.S. within the past 12 months (with exports after April 1, 2025 with valid invoices)
– Seeking support with CUSMA compliance.
Were sole proprietors eligible?
Yes, if they met the eligibility criteria.
Eligible Expenses
What types of expenses were eligible?
Are website or software expenses eligible?
No. Website development, software purchases, or general marketing expenses are not eligible.
Reimbursement & Documentation
How are funds disbursed?
Reimbursement (up to 50% of eligible costs, max $5,000) is issued after:
– Services are completed
– Valid invoice(s) and proof of payment are submitted
Do I need to submit proof of payment?
Yes. Acceptable forms include:
– Credit card statement
– Bank transfer confirmation
– Cleared cheque
Refer to your applicant toolkit for acceptable proof formats.
Can I submit more than one invoice?
Yes, but all invoices must be submitted together through the portal. Partial submissions are not accepted.
Can I pay in cash and get reimbursed?
No. Cash payments are not eligible.
Can I submit handwritten invoices?
No. Invoices must be professional, itemized, and include vendor contact information.
How do I submit my EFT details?
Once approved, you will receive a DocuSign Package with submission forms to provide us with your EFT information.
What if my documents are in USD?
Include the exchange rate used at time of payment (based on the Bank of Canada rate).
Will I receive a tax receipt for the reimbursement?
No. This is not a donation or tax-credit program. Reimbursements are business income and should be reported accordingly.
How long does it take to receive my reimbursement?
Once your complete documentation has been submitted and approved, reimbursements may take 4 weeks to be processed. Delays can occur if information is missing or incomplete.
What name will appear on my bank deposit?
Community Futures Development Association of B.C.
What happens if my service ends up costing more than $10,000?
You will be reimbursed for 50% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $5,000. Any amount above that is your responsibility.
Other Program Details
Who can I contact with questions?
Email cusma@exportnavigator.ca or if you’re an Export Navigator client, please contact your dedicated Export Advisor.