State Trade Expansion Program (STEP): Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how small businesses can access financial awards to help cover the costs of international trade shows and global marketing efforts.
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) provides financial support to help small businesses grow by selling their products in international markets.
Who it's for
This program is designed for small businesses that are interested in exporting their products to customers in other countries.
What you get
You can receive financial awards to help pay for the various costs associated with international trade. This includes expenses related to attending trade shows abroad and marketing your products to a global audience.
What it costs you
While this provides financial assistance, it is not entirely free. You will be required to provide matching funds from your own business to qualify for the support.
The catch to know
The federal government does not hand out this money directly to you. Instead, funding is distributed through various state agencies, which means the availability of funds and the specific rules can change depending on where your business is located.
How to apply
- Determine which state agency manages trade programs in your specific location.
- Check the current availability of funds for your region.
- Review the specific matching fund requirements for your state.
- Submit an application through your local state agency.