About this programme
The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) is a federal-state partnership that helps small Idaho businesses start exporting, grow the value of their exports, or explore significant new trade opportunities. Idaho Commerce administers the program with funding passed through from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
The most recently cited funding period ran on a 75/25 federal-to-state cost share: a $350,000 federal share against a $116,667 non-federal share, for a total program cost of $466,667, covering a project period through September 29, 2025.
How it works
STEP funds several kinds of export activity: an Online Global Program for website and e-commerce internationalization, participation in state-led industry trade shows through an Idaho pavilion, financial assistance awards for other international trade initiatives, and state-led trade missions abroad.
Who can apply
The business must meet SBA small business size standards, based on the correct NAICS code classification and either employee count or annual receipts thresholds, including affiliate information when the size is calculated.
The business must be able to demonstrate the required U.S. content in its products, per program rules.
The business should be exploring or expanding export sales.
How to apply
- Determine your eligibility using SBA size-standard tools and your NAICS code.
- Review the program guidelines and assess your export readiness, using the Export Readiness Assessment if helpful.
- Evaluate your business qualifications and put together an export plan.
- Register on the Idaho Commerce Grant Portal and submit the required documents: the Budget and RFF 2in1 form, the Self-Representation as Eligible Small Business form, and the Debarment and Suspension Certification.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Budget and RFF 2in1 form
- Self-Representation as Eligible Small Business form
- Debarment and Suspension Certification
Frequently asked
What does STEP fund?
Website and e-commerce internationalization, participation in state-led trade shows through an Idaho pavilion, financial assistance for other trade initiatives, and state-led trade missions abroad.
Who is eligible?
Businesses that meet SBA small business size standards for their NAICS code and can show the required U.S. content in their products.
How do I submit an application?
Register on the Idaho Commerce Grant Portal and submit the Budget and RFF 2in1 form, the Self-Representation as Eligible Small Business form, and the Debarment and Suspension Certification.
Who do I contact about registering?
Jeremy Collier handles registration and inquiries at +1-208-780-5145; login requests need 48 hours' notice.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.