A novel basic catalyst, KOH loaded on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (K-MWCNTs), was prepared by using an impregnation method and was used in the synthesis of biodiesel from canola oil in a batch laboratory scale reactor. Response surface methodology (RSM) in conjunction with the central composite design (CCD) was employed to statistically evaluate and optimize the biodiesel production process. Reaction time, alcohol to oil molar ratio, and catalyst content were chosen as the variables to optimize the biodiesel yield. The catalyst was characterized by scan electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and FTIR analysis. A biodiesel yield of 94.23 wt % was obtained with a reaction time of 3.34 h, alcohol to oil ratio of 13.56:1, catalyst content of 3.02 wt %, and reaction temperature of 60 degrees C. The catalyst showed high performance at low operating temperature.