The transesterification reaction of canola oil and methanol to biodiesel was investigated using a calcium bentonite based catalyst support that was functionalized with KF, KOH and K2CO3 Transesterification reaction time, methanol to oil molar ratio, temperature and catalyst loading level were the principal parameters. The activity of KF impregnated catalyst was superior to those of KOH and K2CO3 catalysts. Methyl ester yields which were as high as 98.2 +/- 1.4% could be obtained with KF impregnation. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.