New grants to help Oklahoma small businesses compete

The U.S. Small Business Administration recently announced that Oklahoma will be one of 47 states to receive an award through the State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Grant Program.  

The STEP grant is a pilot project authorized by the Federal Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 to help create jobs by increasing the number of small businesses exporting to foreign countries and to raise the value of exports for small businesses currently exporting.  

“The STEP grant is in line with Oklahoma’s push to grow and expand our state’s economy through international trade,” said Erika Lucas, director, international trade and investment, Oklahoma Department of Commerce.  “In today’s global economy, it’s critical that Oklahoma companies have the necessary tools and support to take advantage of global opportunities.  This program will give them the edge to succeed in global markets.”  

Funding from the STEP grant will support participation in foreign trade missions, foreign market sales trips, translating websites into foreign languages, designing international marketing tools, trade show exhibitions, training, workshops and other critical export initiative.  

Small businesses interested in assistance through the STEP grant can contact the Global Business Services Division of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce at (405) 815-5213, or visit www.okcommerce.gov.