Kansas Department of Commerce

TOPEKA–The Kansas Department of Commerce is now accepting applications from small businesses for programs and funding designed to help grow exports. These programs, which are being offered through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Grant, will help non-exporters begin exporting for the first time or existing exporters expand their export levels.

“Small businesses in our state have tremendous potential for growth through exporting,” said Kansas Commerce Interim Secretary Michael Copeland. “The programs offered by the STEP Grant will help these businesses gain experience and access the resources they need to become successful exporters. I encourage Kansas small businesses to visit Commerce’s website or to contact us to learn more about their export potential and these opportunities.”

Programs offered through the STEP Grant include export seminars and training courses; opportunities for participation in foreign trade shows and missions; and support for entering new markets. Since 2012, more than 30 small businesses in Kansas have participated in STEP grant programs and achieved $9.2 million in export sales. For the current grant year, SBA has awarded Kansas $296,533 in STEP funding. Commerce is administering the grant in tandem with the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Businesses that wish to apply for support or that are interested in learning more about programs and eligibility should visit KansasCommerce.com/STEP.