State Trade Expansion Program
State Trade Expansion Program supports Wyoming small businesses with trade events, matchmaking, foreign-market marketing, and export-readiness activities to increase exports and enter international markets.
Funder: Wyoming Business Council
Due Dates: 45 days before trade event (Application) | July 1, 2026–September 29, 2027 (Grant period) | 30 days after activity (Reimbursement request)
Funding Amounts: Reimbursement of 75% of eligible expenses, up to $5,000 per award; maximum two awards per grant period
Summary: STEP supports Wyoming small businesses pursuing export markets through international marketing events, trade missions, and export-readiness activities.
Key Information: Expenses and activities before the final contract is signed are not eligible for reimbursement.
Description
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) is administered by the Wyoming Business Council (WBC) and funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). It helps Wyoming businesses increase exports, enter new international markets, and explore significant trade opportunities. Support includes international trade shows, trade missions, market matchmaking, foreign-market marketing and localization, and compliance testing for existing products.
STEP operates as a reimbursement grant: businesses cover activity costs upfront and request reimbursement afterward. Trade-event recipients must hold business-to-business meetings with potential clients. Export-readiness training is also available. U.S. Commercial Service offerings, including Gold Key matchmaking, are encouraged where appropriate, but comparable services purchased in foreign markets can also qualify.
