Small Businesses Given International Opportunity to Expand

Pete CodellaNews

Utah small businesses may apply for matching grants to offset expenses related to exhibiting at international events.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) are offering funds through the State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) program. STEP awards are for up to $2,250 and require a 25 percent cash match by the recipient up to $750.

Expenses eligible for reimbursement include: Airfare, trade show exhibitor fee, booth rental fee, Gold Key Service, freight costs of equipment and exhibit materials to and from the trade show, interpretation service, ground transportation costs within the hosting locale, and a per-diem for one employee or agent for the duration of the event plus travel time up to one day before and on the day after the event.

Applications are due four weeks prior to international trade show and/or mission, and the events must occur before September 30, 2013. To apply online, businesses can visit https://www.tfaforms.com/249686. Awards will be given to Utah based small businesses on a first come first served basis. Preference will be given to those companies that demonstrate financial need. Awards are subject to the terms and conditions set forth by SBA Administration and GOED.