The Small Business Administration (SBA) has awarded $754,700 in STEP funding to New York State Empire State Development to increase the number of small businesses that begin to export and increase the value of exports for small businesses that currently export.
The funding will be used to assist New York State small businesses in: participation in foreign trade missions, foreign market sales trips, subscription services provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce, website and/or marketing material translation services, export trade show exhibits and international trade workshops that align with the program objectives.
STEP is designed to increase both the number of small businesses that begin to export and the value of exports for small businesses currently exporting. Expanding the base of small business exporters and making the process as easy as possible is a key component of the Administration’s small business strategy.
“The awards will provide a solid foundation for small businesses planning to enter and set them up for success,” said SBA Administrator Linda McMahon.
The 2017 STEP awards will allow states to assist small businesses with the information and tools they need to succeed in export related activities that are in line with the objectives of the program. STEP awards are managed and provided at the local level by state government organizations.
The program is managed at the national level by the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of International Trade.