California State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant
This grant is provided by GO‑Biz, with partial funding from the U.S. SBA
Grant Amount
Up to $10KGrant Frequency
Round-specific
About This Grant
California STEP supports small businesses entering global markets with events and vouchers.
The California STEP program, overseen by GO‑Biz and partially funded by the U.S. SBA, helps small California businesses expand exports through subsidized trade event participation and reimbursable export promotion expenses.
Export vouchers reimburse up to $10,000 for eligible activities. STEP events offer subsidized fees (amount varies by event).
Frequency: Funding is available in rounds and federal fiscal year limits:
- Events: up to 2 events per federal fiscal year
- Vouchers: subject to round‑specific periods and caps
Start: Begins when you’re approved through the STEP Grant Portal and for the specific activity period listed in the round.
Deadlines are round‑specific for vouchers and tied to each event’s schedule.
How You Can Use the Funds
- Export promotion activities such as international trade events, market research, compliance, translations, and other pre‑approved activities outlined for vouchers and events. Reimbursements follow STEP Program Guidelines.
Documents Required
- Application via the STEP Grant Portal
- Activity‑specific forms (e.g., Event Application or Voucher Application Preview in Grant Resources)
- Reimbursement documentation per STEP Reimbursement Instructions (e.g., invoices, proof of payment, receipts, outcomes)
Eligibility Requirements
- For‑profit entity
- Significant operations in California
- Meet SBA small business size standards
- Operated for at least one year
- Organized or incorporated in the U.S.
- Export goods/services with at least 51% U.S. content
- Registered in California and in good standing