WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration announces the opening of the submission period for a funding opportunity through the State Trade Expansion Program. The purpose of the grant opportunity is to invite proposals for funding from eligible state entities interested in, and capable of providing assistance, guidance and tools to qualified small businesses looking to engage in export-related activities.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, our nation has embarked on the implementation of new, modern trade agreements. As we continue to see more fair and reciprocal trade deals enacted, exporting is a tremendous way for American small businesses to grow and compete in a global economy. At the SBA, we offer grants and loan products that help capitalize on those international opportunities,” said SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza. “The STEP grant program is an incredible tool, providing direct support to small businesses as they seek new and increased international sales opportunities. Over the last year, the SBA has focused on ways to reform the program to make it more efficient and effective for recipients and the small businesses they serve. We look forward to the continued success of STEP as we help more small businesses located around the country sell to a global customer base.”

Funding Opportunity Announcement No. OIT-STEP-2020-01 is for fiscal year 2020 and the submission period is from February 6, 2020 – April 7, 2020. Proposals responding to this Funding Opportunity Announcement must be posted to grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. (EDT), April 7, 2020.

No other method of submission will be permitted. Proposals submitted after the stipulated deadline will be rejected without being evaluated.

For more information on submissions guidelines and rules for this funding opportunity, please visit grants.gov.

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality.

As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster.

It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.