About this programme
The Indiana State Trade Expansion Program (IN-STEP) is a reimbursement grant, administered by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), that helps Indiana small businesses pay for the cost of entering or expanding in international markets. It is funded mostly by a federal SBA cooperative agreement: $565,000 (74%) federal funding matched with $200,000 (26%) non-federal funding for the program year.
The current funding cycle covers eligible activities carried out between June 30 and December 31, 2026.
How it works
IN-STEP reimburses 80% of approved and eligible expenses, up to $15,000 per calendar year.
Eligible activities include international and domestic trade shows, international trade missions, translation services, SEO and website localization, international marketing media design, U.S. federal and private export or commerce support training, and product compliance testing or certification.
Before payment, IEDC runs background checks through the Indiana Department of Revenue, Department of Workforce Development, and Secretary of State's Office; unresolved issues can make a business ineligible.
Who can apply
The business must be a registered vendor with Indiana state government and have been operating for at least one year.
It must be new to exporting or pursuing expansion into new international markets, and must be an active client of an Indiana Small Business Development Center.
It must meet SBA size standards for a small business, and its products must be U.S.-made or contain at least 51% U.S. materials.
How to apply
- Become an active client of an Indiana Small Business Development Center.
- Apply through the IEDC application portal at iedcportal.iedc.in.gov/step-program/.
- Submit the required documents: Indiana Automated Direct Deposit Agreement, IRS W-9 form, and SBA 1624 Certification (debarment/suspension).
- Pass IEDC's business background verification through the Department of Revenue, Department of Workforce Development, and Secretary of State's Office.
- Carry out the approved trade expansion activity, then submit for reimbursement of eligible expenses.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Indiana Automated Direct Deposit Agreement
- IRS W-9 form
- SBA 1624 Certification (debarment/suspension)
Frequently asked
How much of my expenses does IN-STEP cover?
80% of approved, eligible expenses, up to $15,000 per calendar year.
What kinds of expenses qualify?
International and domestic trade shows, international trade missions, translation services, SEO and website localization, international marketing media design, export/commerce training, and product compliance testing or certification.
Do I need to already be exporting?
No. The program is for businesses new to exporting as well as those pursuing expansion into new markets, but you must be an active client of an Indiana Small Business Development Center.
Does my product need to be made in the US?
Yes. Products must be U.S.-made or contain at least 51% U.S. materials.
What paperwork does IEDC check before paying out?
IEDC runs a background check through the Indiana Department of Revenue, Department of Workforce Development, and Secretary of State's Office. Unresolved issues there can make you ineligible.
More funding in Indiana
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Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) Program
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Matched grants up to $200,000 for Indiana manufacturers modernizing with smart-process technology.
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.