Promoting your company at trade shows can be an effective way to gain recognition in your industry and to enter into the global market or expand your international trade capabilities. But not every small business is in the position to coordinate trade show logistics or design and operate their own trade booth. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce makes it possible for Oklahoma companies to partner with the state at trade shows across the globe. With the help of the Oklahoma STEP Fund, qualified companies can get reimbursed for 75% of the participation cost.
Funded Services
The STEP Fund is a matching grant reimbursing 75% of costs for three different designated services: participation costs and travel expenses to exhibit at international trade shows, cost of Export Compliance Training, and Export Solutions through US Commercial Services.
For all shows, matching grant reimbursement for exhibitor passes and travel costs (airfare and hotel) is capped at two people per company per show.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, an applicant must own a small Oklahoma-based business which: (1) is organized or incorporated in the United States; (2) is operating in the United States; (3) has been in business for not less than 1 year, as of the date on which assistance is provided using this grant; (4) Has access to sufficient resources to bear the costs associated with trade, including the costs of packing, shipping, freight forwarding, and customs brokers; (5) in good business standing; and (6) complies with SBA size standards 13 C.F.R. Part 121.
Use of Funds + Grant Requirements
The recipient must use the grant specifically for exhibition at designated export trade shows and the travel costs associated with the show. Travel reimbursement will cover airfare and lodging only. Oklahoma STEP Fund will reimburse 75% of the cost. The maximum varies for each show.
- Airfare must be consistent with the Fly America Act Guidelines
- Lodging is based on Department of State per diem rates for all foreign shows
- For domestic shows, lodging is based on GSA rates
- Application Process + Forms
Download and fill out all forms below. See the Application for complete instructions. Sign forms and retain originals for your records. Color scan signed copies into PDF and email to stepfund@okcommerce.gov. Applications will be accepted starting October 1, 2019.
Trade Shows
MRO Americas Show
September 1-3, 2020
Dallas, TX
MRO Americas is the premier U.S. event for the commercial air transport maintenance, repair and overhaul industry, offering an extensive conference agenda and where real business leads are generated.
NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition
October 6-8, 2020
Orlando, FL
NBAA is the premier event and annual meeting place for the business aviation community. This event brings together key aviation contacts from around the world, including current and prospective business aircraft owners, manufacturers and customers into one meeting place.
Black Sea Defense
Aerospace, and Security International Exhibition
October 14-16, 2020
Bucharest, Romania
Black Sea Defense & Aerospace is the international tri-service Defense, Aerospace and Security exhibition, bringing together exhibitors, specialized visitors and official military delegations from around the world.
MRO Europe Show
October 27-29, 2020
Barcelona Spain
MRO Europe is the premier event for Europe’s commercial air transport maintenance, repair and overhaul industry.
Partners
The Oklahoma Department of Commerce works with the U.S. Commercial Service – Oklahoma Export Assistance Center, U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA Oklahoma District Office, Oklahoma International Trade Center, Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma Sorghum Commission and Export-Import Bank of the United States to support Oklahoma companies in exporting to new markets to generate wealth and increase employment in the state.
Funded in part through a grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
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