STEP Grant (Federal STEP Grant Support via Kentucky Export Initiative)
Forecasted
The STEP Grant, backed by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, helps Kentucky small businesses access federal STEP funds to expand into export markets through expert guidance and resources.
Funder: Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Guidance/support for federal STEP Grant applicants; federal STEP awards typically range up to $10,000–$15,000 per business per year.
Summary: Provides Kentucky small businesses with guidance and resources to access and utilize the federal STEP Grant for export market expansion.
Key Information: This is not a direct grant from Kentucky; it is state support to help you apply for and use federal STEP Grant funds.
Description
The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, through the Kentucky Export Initiative, offers support for small businesses seeking to expand into export markets by helping them access and utilize the federal State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant. This program does not provide direct funding from the state; instead, it delivers guidance, educational opportunities, and assistance in leveraging federal STEP Grant resources. Support includes help with the application process, trade missions, educational events, and making effective use of federal grant funds to facilitate international growth for Kentucky-based small businesses.
