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State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) helps to increase the number of Nebraska small businesses that export, and increases export value for those already doing so. The program is made possible by funding to the State of Nebraska 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 the Department of Economic Development (DED). A 25% company match of the maximum reimbursement allowed is required for each activity funded through STEP.
STEP grants help businesses defray the costs of marketing internationally and assist with identifying potential international buyers.
How It Works
- Businesses must fill out an application to identify as a small business entity.
- After qualification, the company participates in mandatory training covering the grant, administrative tasks, executions of trade activities, and reporting.
- Then company must submit an Itemized Budget Request (IBR) for each activity for which they’re requesting funding.
- 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.
Allowable Activities
The following are examples of activities a STEP grant can support:
- Domestic and international trade shows
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USDOC Match Marketing Programs
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Training/educational activities
Application
Application User Guide
Step by step instructions for submitting a State Trade Expansion Program Year 11 application.
State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
Application Deadlines: Open Cycle
Program Resources
| Title | File Type | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Debarment Certification Form Yr-11 | October 27, 2022 | |
| Fly America Act Waiver Checklist | April 15, 2024 | |
| Fly American Act Policy 2-4-16 | October 27, 2022 | |
| Itemized Budget Request IBR Year-11 | Excel | April 18, 2024 |
| SBA Self-Representation Form | October 27, 2022 | |
| STEP Program Guidelines Yr-11 | April 16, 2024 |
Grant Management Help Center
This page will provide technical assistance on using AmpliFund to apply for and manage grants awarded by DED.
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Subscribe to the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) email lists here.
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