State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
Offered by SBA via state and territory governments
Government Active
Key details
- Award range
- Reimbursements commonly $2,000–$25,000 per business (varies by state)
- Business stage
- Existing
- Industry
- Small Business
- Location
- United States
- Last checked by BTV
- August 5, 2026
About this program
<p>STEP awards federal funds to states, which then reimburse small businesses for export-development expenses: trade-show exhibition, export training, website localization, and international marketing.</p><p>Because each state administers its own program, deadlines and covered expenses differ — find your state's administrator through the SBA STEP page.</p><p>Official source: <a href="https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/grants/state-trade-expansion-program-step" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/grants/state-trade-expansion-program-step</a>. Program terms, deadlines, and award amounts change — always verify directly with the administering organization before applying. BTV lists this program for informational purposes and is not affiliated with the provider. Beware of third parties charging fees to "unlock" government grants; official program information is free.</p>
Eligibility
Export-ready U.S. small businesses; apply through your state's STEP administrator, as each state runs its own application cycle and reimbursement rules.
How to apply
Apply directly through the program's official channels. BTV does not process applications and never charges for grant information.
Avoid grant scams: legitimate government and foundation grants never require an upfront fee, gift cards, or your full banking credentials to apply. Only apply through the official links above. If someone contacts you claiming to "guarantee" this grant for a fee, report it via our
contact page.
BTV has flagged this program's scam-risk status as low — use extra caution.
Stay on top of funding
Deadlines and award amounts change. Get funding roundups in the BTV newsletter, or tell us about a program we're missing.
Program details are compiled from the provider's published materials and were last checked on August 5, 2026. Terms, deadlines, and award amounts may change without notice — always confirm on the official program page before applying.