Iowa State Trade Expansion Program

The Iowa Economic Development Authority's (IEDA) International Trade Office (ITO), in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration’s State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), offers financial assistance to support specific export marketing efforts to increase the number of Iowa small business exporters and exports.

 

Eligibility

• For-profit company operating in Iowa to process, manufacture, add value to product and/or distribute a product or provide an exportable service.
• Meet SBA “Eligible Small Business Concern” size guidelines sba.gov/size.
• Provide certification demonstrating company is not debarred from federal funding.
• Be new to exporting, focusing on a new international market or have a new product to promote to the international market.
• Review full list of eligibility and qualified expenses on the Financial Assistance Fact Sheet.

 

How to Apply

• Review and follow detailed application instructions and required documentation found in the International Financial Assistance Fact Sheet
• Applications must be received by the IEDA at least 45 days in advance of an event
• Program availability subject to annual funding allocation

 

Companies wishing to participate in the Iowa STEP grant may email Peggy Kerr at peggy.kerr@iowaeda.com or call (515) 348-6242.