SBA Awards $200K to Expand Connecticut Small Business Exporting

CONNECTICUT– The U.S. Small Business Administration has announced that $20 million in grant funding has been awarded to state international trade agencies throughout the country via a competitive application process to SBA’s State Trade Expansion Program grant program.  Locally, the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) was awarded $200,000 of that pool to help provide small businesses with the information and tools they need to succeed in export-related activities.

Exporting activities include: participating in foreign trade missions, market sales trips, designing international marketing campaigns, participating in export trade show exhibits, and attending training workshops, as well as other important means of engagement.

“With nearly 95 percent of the world’s consumers and two-thirds of all purchasing power located outside of the United States, it is critical that we give small businesses the tools and support they need to access this market,” said SBA Regional Administrator Marlene Cintron.  “Thanks to this federal funding, Connecticut’s Department of Economic and Community Development is able to support new and existing small business exporters, increase sales and expand markets through SBA’s State Trade Expansion Program.”

SBA Connecticut District Director Catherine Marx added “Exporting is an important system for increasing our economy both locally and nationally. Connecticut’s small businesses can use these funds to expand their business into the global market. I encourage our businesses to apply as soon as possible as this grant program is very popular and funds tend to go quickly.”

“This U.S. SBA STEP funding is a great resource for Connecticut companies looking to strengthen their presence in the global marketplace or pursue new trade opportunities,” said Alexandra Daum, Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development. “This program is another example of how SBA continues to be a great partner with DECD and Connecticut’s small business community.” 

This year marks the 70th year the Small Business Administration has supported American corporations. On this occasion, we celebrate the aid the SBA has provided including 11 years of STEP funding, which has awarded over $235 million. Since 95% of the world's consumers and two-thirds of all purchasing power are located outside the United States, this grant program plays a critical role in providing access to capital, access to markets, and access to buyers.

If you would like to learn more about the program, or contact your local state entity to apply for funding, additional details are posted on www.SBA.gov/STEP  

For media inquiries or additional information, contact Sheri Cote at sheri.cote@sba.gov or 202-445-6709.
 
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.