Oklahoma State Trade Expansion Program

Promoting your company at trade shows can be an effective way to gain recognition in your industry and to enter into the global market or expand your international trade capabilities. But not every small business is in the position to coordinate trade show logistics or design and operate their own trade booth. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce makes it possible for Oklahoma companies to partner with the state at trade shows across the globe. With the help of the Oklahoma STEP Fund, qualified companies can get reimbursed for 75% of the participation cost.

 

Funded Services

The STEP Fund is a matching grant reimbursing 75% of costs for three different designated services:

• Participation costs and travel expenses to exhibit at international trade shows
• Cost of Export Compliance Training
• Export Solutions through US Commercial Services

For all shows, matching grant reimbursement for exhibitor passes and travel costs (airfare and hotel) is capped at two people per company per show.

 

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, an applicant must own a small Oklahoma-based business which:

• Is organized or incorporated in the United States.
• Is operating in the United States.
• Has been in business for not less than 1 year, as of the date on which assistance is provided using this grant.
• Has access to sufficient resources to bear the costs associated with trade, including the costs of packing, shipping, freight forwarding, and customs brokers.
• In good business standing.
• Complies with SBA size standards 13 C.F.R. Part 121.

 

Companies wishing to participate in the Oklahoma STEP grant can email Jesse Garcia at jesse.garcia@okcommerce.gov or call (408) 815-5136.