State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
The State Trade Expansion Program from Connecticut DECD helps small businesses boost exports through support for trade shows, marketing, and export training.
Funder: Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
Due Dates: July 1, 2027 (Full application submission deadline) | October 1, 2027 (Final reimbursement paperwork for activities ending September 29, 2027)
Funding Amounts: Up to 75% of eligible expenses, max $6,500 per activity and $10,000 total per company per program year; minimum request $500.
Summary: Supports Connecticut small businesses in expanding exports and entering new global markets through reimbursement of eligible trade activities.
Key Information: Applications are reviewed first-come, first-served and must be submitted before activity participation.
Description
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) administered by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) provides financial support to Connecticut-based small businesses aiming to increase exports and access new international markets. The program reimburses a portion of eligible expenses for activities such as participation in international trade shows, trade missions, export marketing, website translation, and export training. STEP is funded in part through a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and is designed to help small businesses grow their export sales and global reach.
