Nebraska State Trade Expansion Program

The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) helps increase the number of small businesses that export, and increases export value for those already doing so. This program is made possible by a grant DED received from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

STEP grants operate on a reimbursement basis for qualified small Nebraska businesses. Successful applicants are reimbursed for eligible expenses when their project/activity has been completed and required documentation has been submitted to DED. A 25% company match of the maximum reimbursement allowed is required for each activity funded through STEP.

STEP grants help businesses defray the cost to market internationally, and assist with identifying potential international buyers.

 

How It Works

1. Businesses must fill out an application to identify as a small business entity.
2. After qualification, the company must submit an Itemized Budget Request (IBR) for each activity for which they’re requesting funding.
3. The submitted IBR must be approved before incurring any costs related to the project in order to be eligible for reimbursement.

 

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must operate a business in Nebraska to process, manufacture, and/or distribute a product, or provide an exportable service. They must be in business for at least one year, and they must qualify as a small business entity according to U.S. Small Business Administration standards.

 

For more information about the Nebraska STEP Grant, visit our website.