We’re reaching out to invite you to share your experience with the federal State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant, administered through the U.S. Small Business Administration. For many Michigan companies, STEP funding has played a key role in driving business growth—supporting efforts to reach new international markets, participate in global trade shows, localize marketing materials, and strengthen export strategies that open doors to new opportunities.
Your growth has helped position Michigan as a national leader in STEP performance. With an average return on investment of 328:1—far exceeding the national average of 40:1—Michigan companies have leveraged STEP funding to generate over $6 billion in new export sales since 2011, expanding their global reach and strengthening our state’s economy.
We encourage you to take a moment to share how the STEP grant has helped your company grow exports and reach new international markets—and how it’s helped you move closer to your business goals, whether through increased visibility, expanded partnerships, or new revenue opportunities. Your participation helps highlight the importance of programs that support Michigan’s small business community in competing globally.
Our national partners at SIDO (State International Development Organizations), a membership organization of state trade offices, have created a simple form for small businesses to share their STEP experience. You may need to click “request access” to enter the site, which will allow you to easily connect with your federal representatives and share your story.
