How to Apply for International Export Grants: A Step-by-Step Guide

For U.S. small businesses, entering the global marketplace can be a powerful engine for growth.

However, the costs associated with international expansion—from attending trade shows to translating marketing materials—can be a significant barrier.

International export grants are designed to lower this barrier by providing non-dilutive funding to help companies sell their goods and services abroad.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for applying to the most prominent federal export grant programs available to U.S. businesses.

We will focus on the practical application procedures for two key sources: the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) and the U.S.

Trade and Development Agency (USTDA).

Understanding the Two Main Types of Export Grants

Before you apply, it’s crucial to understand the different goals of the primary federal export grant programs.

Your business type and export goals will determine which program is the right fit.

• State Trade Expansion Program (STEP): This U.S.

Small Business Administration (SBA) program provides financial awards to state and territory governments to assist small businesses with export development.

You apply directly to your state, not the federal government.

These grants typically reimburse costs for specific export-related activities.

• **U.S.

Trade and Development Agency (USTDA):** This agency funds project preparation activities, such as feasibility studies and technical assistance, for large-scale infrastructure projects in developing and middle-income countries.

These grants create opportunities for U.S. companies to export goods and services required for those projects.

How to Apply for the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant

The STEP grant is the most common and accessible source of export funding for U.S. small businesses.

The application process occurs at the state level, so the exact steps and deadlines vary.

However, the general procedure is consistent across the country.

Step 1: Verify Your Business Eligibility

First, confirm that your business meets the baseline requirements for the STEP program.

While specifics are set by each state, you generally must:

• Be in business for at least one year.

• Meet the SBA's definition of a "small business."

• Be operating profitably.

• Have a product or service that is ready for export, with at least 51% U.S. content.

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of the costs associated with exporting.

Step 2: Find and Contact Your State's Program Administrator

The SBA provides a master list of state and territory awardees that manage the STEP grant funds.

Your first action is to identify the correct agency in your state, which is typically a department of commerce or an economic development corporation.

• Action: Visit the official SBA STEP Awardees Directory to find the contact information for your state's program.

Step 3: Review Your State’s Application Guidelines and Deadlines

Once you've located your state's program, carefully study its specific guidelines.

Pay close attention to:

• Application Deadlines: Deadlines are set by the state and often occur on a rolling basis or within specific funding rounds.
• Eligible Activities: Each state defines which export activities it will reimburse.

Common eligible expenses include:

• Participation in foreign trade missions and trade shows.

• Website translation and localization services.

• Design of international marketing materials.

• Subscriptions to services provided by the U.S.

Department of Commerce.

• Obtaining foreign patents or regulatory certifications.
• Funding Limits: Note the maximum award amount per business, which typically ranges from a few thousand to over $10,000, depending on the state and activity.

Step 4: Prepare and Assemble Your Application Package

Most state applications require a standard set of documents to demonstrate your company's readiness to export.

Begin gathering these materials well in advance:

• A Completed Application Form: Downloaded from your state agency’s website.
• An Export Business Plan: A document outlining your export strategy, target markets, and expected outcomes.
• A Detailed Budget: A breakdown of how you plan to use the grant funds, linking each expense to an eligible activity.
• Company Financial Statements: To prove your business is financially stable.
• A Letter of Intent: A formal letter explaining why you are seeking the grant and how it will impact your business.

How to Apply for U.S.

Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) Grants

The USTDA application process is different from STEP.

It is geared toward companies involved in larger-scale international projects, often in sectors like energy, transportation, and telecommunications. U.S. businesses typically partner with a foreign entity (the project sponsor) to apply.

Step 1: Identify a Relevant USTDA Opportunity

USTDA announces its funding opportunities on its official website.

There are two primary ways to seek funding:

• Calls for Proposals: USTDA issues public announcements for specific projects or initiatives.

These have firm deadlines and detailed requirements.

• Unsolicited Proposals: The agency also accepts proposals on a rolling basis for projects that meet its funding criteria.
• Action: Regularly monitor the USTDA Business Opportunities page for active solicitations.

Step 2: Develop a Comprehensive Proposal

A successful USTDA proposal must prove that funding a feasibility study or technical assistance plan will likely lead to significant exports of U.S. goods and services.

Key components include:

• Project Description: A clear overview of the infrastructure project in the host country.
• **U.S.

Export Potential:** A detailed analysis of the potential value of U.S. exports that the project would generate.

• Host Country Support: Evidence of commitment from the foreign project sponsor.
• Budget and Work Plan: A clear breakdown of the costs and timeline for the proposed study or assistance.

Step 3: Submit Through the Official Channels

Follow the submission instructions precisely as outlined in the call for proposals.

This typically involves submitting documents through a federal portal or via a designated email address.

Ensure your submission is complete and on time, as late or incomplete applications are rarely considered.

Final Checklist for Your Export Grant Application

Whether applying for a STEP grant or USTDA funding, a meticulous approach is essential.

Use this checklist to ensure your application is competitive and complete.

• Verify Eligibility: Confirm your business meets all baseline requirements.
• Identify the Right Program: Choose the grant that aligns with your business goals (cost reimbursement vs. project preparation).
• Read All Guidelines: Thoroughly review the official program guidelines and FAQs.
• Develop a Clear Export Plan: Articulate a strong, data-backed strategy for international growth.
• Create a Detailed Budget: Justify every dollar you are requesting.
• Gather All Required Documents: Collect financial statements, certifications, and other paperwork early.
• Proofread Everything: Review your entire application for errors, typos, and inconsistencies.
• Submit Before the Deadline: Submit your application at least one day early to avoid technical issues.