Case Study: How Upgraded Helped Normative Unlock CanExport Funding and Tech Savings
When Jon, the founder of Normative, began exploring opportunities for international growth and cost efficiencies, he turned to Upgraded for strategic guidance. Through expert grant discovery, application support, and cost-saving strategies, Upgraded helped Normative secure a $29,000 CanExport grant and identify $35,000 in tech savings.
Understanding Normative’s Vision and Funding Goals
Normative is dedicated to leveraging data-driven solutions for social and environmental impact. Jon needed to expand into new global markets without draining his operating budget. Upgraded’s team reviewed Normative’s objectives and recognized that the Canadian government’s CanExport program was an ideal match.
Key Considerations
• Identifying clear alignment between Normative’s innovative approach and CanExport’s eligibility criteria
• Outlining strategic paths for growth that required additional funding
Crafting a Winning CanExport Application
Upgraded guided Normative through each stage of the CanExport application process—streamlining paperwork, refining the application and ensuring compliance with federal guidelines.
Steps to Success
1. Eligibility Check: Verifying that Normative’s expansion plans fit within CanExport parameters.
2. Application Drafting: Showcasing Normative’s unique social and environmental mission to stand out among applicants.
3. Review & Revision: Managing feedback loops and ensuring no detail was overlooked before final submission.
This headache-free approach paid off, securing Normative $29,000 in CanExport funding to enter new markets more confidently.
Discovering $35,000 in Tech Savings
Beyond the grant, Upgraded took a deep dive into Normative’s tech stack and operational expenses. By pinpointing overlooked incentive programs and optimizing existing resources, the team delivered an additional $35,000 in tech savings.
How It Happened
• Assessing software licenses and cloud usage for cost redundancy
• Identifying technology grants, rebates, and bulk purchasing options
• Streamlining internal processes to cut overhead and reduce administrative burdens
Driving International Expansion and Operational Efficiency
With the newly secured funding and tech savings, Normative could focus on expanding their social impact globally. Upgraded’s support didn’t end with grant writing—it included offering guidance on market research, strategic partnerships, and efficient resource allocation.
Results
• New Market Entry: CanExport funds helped Normative scale internationally with minimal financial risk.
• Stronger Infrastructure: Tech savings were reinvested in research and development, to allocate to additional innovations.
• Future-Proof Strategy: A roadmap for subsequent funding opportunities and market growth, ensuring Normative’s long-term success.
“The way they did it was incredible, amazing and without fault. Flawless.”
– Jon, Founder of Normative
Jon applauded Upgraded’s combination of hands-on grant writing, strategic market analysis, and personalized consultation. Their holistic approach equipped Normative to enter new markets while preserving valuable resources.
Partner with Upgraded
If you’re seeking growth opportunities, funding support, or ways to optimize tech expenses, Upgraded can help you chart a roadmap forward. Just as they did for Normative, Upgraded specializes in discovering the right grant programs, ensuring successful applications, and driving sustainable business results.
By teaming up with Upgraded, Normative secured $29,000 in CanExport funds and uncovered $35,000 in tech savings—laying a solid foundation to scale their business on an international level. Ready to see what you could be missing?
