International Freight Forwarders & Customs Brokers Association of New Orleans

Grant Funds for Exporters

International Trade Admin Heading

Grant Funds Available Now in Louisiana for Export Promotion

The State Trade Export Promotion (STEP) Grant Program supports export development of U.S. products and services by small and medium businesses. Its funding reimburses certain expenses that are typically incurred by companies actively promoting goods and/or services to international markets.

STEP is a program of the Small Business Administration, and is administered statewide by Louisiana Economic Development. The program offers reimbursements of up to $2,500 per company per event for certain expenses related to qualified companies’ participation in preselected business development event opportunities. Some preselected events are located domestically, and have a strong draw for international business–you can promote your business internationally without even leaving the United States!

Industry sectors with preselected events:

  • Aerospace/Aeronautics/Defense
  • Biotech/Life Sciences
  • Food/Agriculture
  • Oil/Gas/Energy
  • Outdoor/Recreation
Covered expenses can include:

  • Registration fees
  • Exhibition booth fees
  • Coach class airfare
  • Ground transportation
  • Lodging & Meals (per diem)

Find out if you are eligible; and apply online for free. See attached flyer to quickly review the specific events approved for reimbursement under this program, and use the SBA online tool to determine if you meet size standards for a “small business.”

Reimbursement rates can be up to 75% of qualified expenses incurred by new-to-export companies, and up to 50% of qualified expenses for market expansion companies. Reimbursement documentation requirements include relevant receipts, and completion of a simple survey.

Questions?

 Crystal Mills
504-589-6703
crystal.mills@trade.gov
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