Funding Resources
New York STEP Grant 2026: Up to $10,000 for NY Small Businesses Ready to Export
If your New York small business is ready to go global — or already exporting and looking to expand — the Global NY State Trade Expansion Program, known as STEP, can put up to $10,000 back in your pocket for eligible trade activities. Here is everything you need to know about the program, who qualifies, what gets funded, and how to apply.
Who Are They?
The STEP program is administered by Empire State Development in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration. ESD is New York State's primary economic development agency, and STEP sits within its Global NY export assistance division. The program is funded 75% by the federal SBA and 25% by New York State, with a total program cost of $1.2 million for the current STEP 12 cycle running through August 31, 2026.
The Grant Amount
Grants range from $2,000 to $5,000 per approved activity. A company may apply for up to three activities per year with a total annual cap of $10,000. The program covers up to 50% of eligible costs per activity. Awards are issued on a first-come, first-served basis until program funds run out, so applying early is strongly advised.
What Gets Funded
Approved STEP funds can be used for participation in foreign trade missions, trade show exhibition at international and qualified domestic trade shows, qualified foreign market sales trips, export training workshops, website content and foreign language translation, international marketing campaign development, compliance testing, export consultancy services, Department of Commerce service subscriptions, and export credit insurance premium reimbursement.
Speaking engagements at conferences are not eligible.
Who Is Eligible
Your business must be a for-profit company headquartered and registered to do business in New York State, with a physical employee presence in the state and at least one year of operating history. Your products or services must be export-ready and currently sold in U.S. or international markets, and must contain at least 51% U.S. content. You must qualify as a small business under SBA size standards and be in good standing with all New York State agencies.
Ineligible industries include law firms, nonprofits, educational institutions, retail businesses, cannabis companies, intermediary businesses, and companies recruiting foreign investment.
Deadline
The STEP 12 funding period runs through August 31, 2026. Apply as early as possible since awards are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
For questions contact ESD at [email protected] or 212-803-2300.
BoostGrant helps small businesses identify and apply for state and federal funding programs like STEP. Get started at boostgrant.com
Frequently asked questions
How much is the STEP grant?
Between $2,000 and $5,000 per approved activity, covering up to 50% of eligible costs. The annual cap per company is $10,000 across up to three activities.
How long does the application review take?
Yes. Flights must be basic economy on a U.S. carrier compliant with the Fly America Act.
Grants mentioned in this article
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