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Trade support Steel and Aluminium Industries Support Program

Get working capital ranging from $2 to $50 million to help support your operations in the face of rising tariffs.*
If rising tariffs are putting pressure on your bottom line, BDC can help. We support viable Canadian businesses with working capital to offset higher costs, protect jobs and productive capacity, while creating the flexibility to adapt and strengthen operations amid ongoing trade challenges.

Is your business eligible?

Check out some of the general requirements.

New to Financing? Take a look at our FAQ.

Minimum requirements
Location Based in Canada
Industry Manufacturers of steel, aluminium, copper and fabricated products, or products mostly or entirely made of steel, aluminium and copper
Exports to the United States
Annual revenues $5M or more
Years in operation 3 years or more

How to apply

1
Submit a loan request online
Tell us a little about your business and your needs. To prepare for step 2, it’s a good idea to begin assembling your financial statements for the past three years.
2
Talk to a representative
We will call you to discuss your project in depth, including the documents needed for our analysis (see FAQ below for more details).
3
Get a tailored solution
If you’re approved, we’ll send you a loan offer based on your financial needs and capabilities.

Get working capital to…

  • Ease cost pressures
  • Stabilize operations
  • Cover operational expenses
  • Preserve cash flow
  • Manage market disruptions

You're in good hands

Choosing a loan is about more than just interest rates. The fine print is just as important—and our terms and conditions are designed to give you more flexibility and financial control over your business.

We’re there in good times and in bad

We’ve supported our clients through market downturns and other events beyond their control.

We're not one size fits all

We take the time to review your business needs and offer solutions that leave you enough breathing room to realize your goals.

We’re committed to you long-term

We won't change our terms and conditions or demand early repayment without a valid reason.

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Preferred rates so you can take action

Take advantage of preferred interest rates to help you quickly pivot your business.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Steel and Aluminium Industries Support Program?

BDC has been mandated to implement a $1 billion financing program to support companies in the steel and aluminium industries in addressing the impacts of tariffs, particularly with respect to liquidity and their ability to maintain operations. 

Companies can obtain $2 to $50 million in financing to provide temporary liquidity support. The objective is to give otherwise sound businesses the breathing room needed to navigate this period, protect jobs, maintain operations and adapt.

How can my business qualify for this loan?

Support is targeted to Canadian businesses in the steel, aluminium or copper value chain that have been materially impacted by U.S. tariffs and that were viable prior to the tariff measures. Technical eligibility parameters (draft) include:

  • Canadian-based and headquartered commercial entities;
  • Material exposure to steel, aluminium or copper tariffs;
  • Minimum revenue thresholds of $5M annually.

What documents do I need to provide?

Once you have completed the BDC online application form, a representative will contact you to request additional documentation. You should prepare*:

  • An organizational chart
  • 3 years of financial statements (including interim FIs, if applicable)
  • Recent financial statements including cash-flow statements
  • Borrowing based information and compliance certificate
  • Tariff-related requirements and supporting information

*More detailed documents could be required.

What can the loan be used for?

Loans are intended to fund operational cash-flow needs (working capital), including regularly scheduled monthly debt or lease payments. The intent is to provide liquidity to continue operations while companies work through the tariff-driven disruption.

Are copper producers eligible?

Yes, copper producers are eligible under this program.

What other support do you offer businesses struggling in the current trade environment?

In addition to our various other financing solutions, our Advisory Services experts are also happy to support you in related areas that can help you take proactive measures to protect your position, such as financial management, operational efficiency and strategic planning. For more information and resources, visit bdc.ca/tariffs.

What does “material exposure” mean?

Material exposure includes companies that either export products directly subject to tariffs or sell goods that contain steel, aluminium and copper components where the full good is now tariffed.

Can I apply even if my company has another BDC loan?

Yes. Eligible companies may also use other BDC and/or Government support programs, where permitted, to meet their needs.

Ready to apply?

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*Conditions apply. Subject to loan approval. Businesses must demonstrate direct or indirect negative material impact on their operations and profitability due to U.S. tariffs, related uncertainties or current economic downturn. Loan must be used to address potential impacts from tariffs, related uncertainties or current economic downturn. The business must have been viable before the implementation of tariffs.