Manitoba Incoming Buyer Program (IBP)

Also known as: Incoming Buyer Program

Cost-shared reimbursement (Economic Programs and Initiatives Branch) for Manitoba SMEs hosting qualified international buyers in Manitoba: up to $5,000 or 50% of eligible costs per project, covering the buyer's economy airfare and local accommodations. Limited to 2 applications per year and 1 visit per buyer. Together with the Export Development Program it forms the Export Support Program, capped at $50,000 per company per fiscal year. Reimbursement is paid after costs are incurred (no advances). The 2026/27 program year covers activities between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027, accepted on a rolling basis while program funds remain available.

Who qualifies

• For-profit small or medium-sized enterprise (under 500 employees) with a permanent establishment in Manitoba and more than half its workforce residing in Manitoba
• Produces or manufactures an exportable product or service in Manitoba; annual sales between $30,000 and $50,000,000 in the current or previous fiscal year
• Buyer must be an international for-profit buyer on their first visit to Manitoba relating to the applicant, and a senior decision-maker looking to procure new products or services
• Up to $5,000 or 50% of eligible costs (buyer's economy airfare + local accommodations); 2 applications per year, 1 visit per buyer; $50,000 per company per fiscal year across the Export Support Program
• Ineligible: publicly traded companies, not-for-profits, Crown corporations/municipalities, educational institutions, consultants/agents

Typical applicant

A Manitoba for-profit manufacturer or service exporter inviting an international distributor/buyer to visit and see its operations, seeking reimbursement of the buyer's travel and lodging

Verified against the official program page as of 2026-07-15. Programs change — always confirm current details with the program office before committing project spend.