Description of the Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP):
On March 13, 2020, the Government announced the establishment of a Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) to help Canadian businesses obtain financing during the current period of significant uncertainty. The BCAP will support access to financing for Canadian businesses in all sectors and regions.
Through this program, Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) will provide more than $65 billion in direct lending and other types of financial support at market rates to businesses with viable business models whose access to financing would otherwise be restricted. By working in close cooperation with financial institutions, this program will fill gaps in market access and leverage additional lending by private sector institutions
Businesses seeking support through BCAP should contact the financial institutions with whom they have a pre-existing relationship, so that the financial institutions may assess the client’s financial request. If the needs of the client exceed the level of support the financial institution is able to provide, the financial institution will work alongside BDC or EDC to access additional resources the Government has made available under BCAP.
Canada outlines measures to support the economy and the financial sector
Role/Description of BDC and EDC
Through the BCAP, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC), both financial Crown corporations, will work closely with private sector lenders to improve access to financing for Canadian businesses.
BDC helps create and develop strong Canadian businesses through financing, advisory services and capital, with a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises.
For more information on the BDC’s products and services.
EDC is Canada’s export credit agency, offering innovative financing, insurance and risk management solutions to help Canadian exporters and investors expand their international business.
For more information on EDC’s products and services.
Participating private sector lenders have committed to:
- Working with BDC/EDC to find solutions for creditworthy business clients who would otherwise have insufficient access to credit.
- Ensuring that the extension of credit by BDC/EDC is incremental for Canadian businesses and does not displace or substitute for private credit in aggregate.
Contact Information:
If you are interested in exploring financing opportunities for your business through the BCAP, please contact your financial institution directly and it will contact BDC and EDC where appropriate. BDC and EDC can also be contacted at the email addresses below.
Business Development Bank of Canada
1-877-232-2269
1-800-229-0575
All information is from: www.canada.ca and www.alberta.ca
