SBA Helps Small Businesses Sell Products Worldwide

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to run a business?

Imagine you have a small store selling items you made, like cool T-shirts or yummy cookies. Now, picture that people from all over the world want to buy your products! That’s what exporting means – selling products to people in other countries.

To help small businesses sell their products worldwide, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently awarded $20 million to states and territories. This money, called STEP (State Trade Expansion Program) grants, will support small businesses in learning how to export and expanding their reach around the globe.

**Why Exporting Is Important**

Did you know that 95% of the world’s customers live outside the United States? By exporting, small businesses can reach many more customers and grow their businesses. This helps create new jobs and keeps the American economy strong. The SBA’s STEP grants help small businesses by covering costs like creating ads for foreign markets, joining international trade shows, and building websites to attract customers from other countries.

**Who Gets This Money and How?**

The SBA gave these grants to 43 different states and territories, which will start giving money to local small businesses that want to export. This funding starts on September 30, and businesses interested in applying can talk to their state’s trade office or visit the SBA’s website at [www.sba.gov/STEP](https://www.sba.gov/STEP) to learn more.

**How STEP Grants Help Small Businesses**

With the help of these grants, small business owners can:
- Take part in trade shows in other countries to showcase their products.
- Create special marketing plans to appeal to customers overseas.
- Go on business trips to meet potential buyers in other countries.

Since the program started in 2010, STEP grants have helped over 18,000 small businesses increase their sales around the world. For every $1 given, small businesses have made $27 in sales through exporting!

**Want to Learn More?**

If you or someone you know has a small business, they can get in touch with their local SBA office to learn how exporting can help them grow. The SBA has special counselors and programs to support small business owners in making connections around the world.