Application deadline is July 15

Local companies can still benefit from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Pure Michigan State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) grant money for export related activities.  Proposals for the $150,000 in grants must be submitted by July 15.  Companies can qualify for up to $25,000 in assistance to offset a portion of their export marketing-related costs. Eligible activities include:  foreign market sales trips, foreign trade shows, foreign trade missions and translations of materials and websites.

“Flint-Genesee County businesses looking to explore export opportunities can get a leg up on the competition by participating in the STEP grant program,” said Janice Karcher, Vice President of Economic Development for the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce.  “The deadline for proposals is coming soon and I encourage businesses in the region to take advantage of this opportunity to participate in the global marketplace.”

The Michigan STEP is a statewide effort designed to spur job creation and help companies explore the export market.  The program, which is funded by MEDC through an Small Business Administration grant, helps eliminate the cost barriers to exporting by providing financial assistance to qualified organizations seeking entry and expansion in foreign markets.

The Regional Chamber Economic Development team can provide additional assistance for companies in the region.  For more information contact Janice Karcher at (810) 600-1430 or jkarcher@thegrcc.org .

For more information on the STEP program and the grant application process, visit www.michiganadvantage.org/STEP.