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Wyoming State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)
Industry-Specific · Wyoming Business Council · WY
The Wyoming State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) is a reimbursement grant from the Wyoming Business Council that covers 75% of eligible international marketing expenses, up to $5,000, for export-ready small businesses located in Wyoming.
The Wyoming State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) is a reimbursement program administered by the Wyoming Business Council, funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration. It helps small businesses in Wyoming cover costs associated with international marketing activities, such as attending trade shows, participating in trade missions, and similar export-development events abroad.
Instead of a lump-sum cash grant, STEP works as a reimbursement: eligible businesses can recover 75% of qualifying expenses, up to a maximum of $5,000 per award. To qualify for reimbursement, businesses must participate in business-to-business meetings with potential international clients during the funded event, ensuring the program supports genuine export-development activity rather than general travel.
This program is aimed specifically at small businesses that already have export-ready products — meaning goods with at least 51% U.S. content — and that are actively trying to grow into international markets. It's a useful resource for manufacturers, producers, or other Wyoming-based companies looking to offset the cost of pursuing overseas buyers without committing a large amount of business capital upfront.
Because STEP funding rounds and the exact reimbursement details can change year to year (the current cycle references 2026), business owners should confirm the current award amount, whether a round is currently open, and any updated eligibility requirements directly with the Wyoming Business Council before making plans or incurring expenses they intend to seek reimbursement for.
Overall, STEP is a targeted, moderate-value program (not a general operating grant) meant to reduce the financial barrier to entering export markets for qualifying small Wyoming businesses.
Who qualifies
How to apply
Questions people ask
Is this a grant or a loan?
It's structured as a reimbursement grant funded partly by the SBA — you don't repay it, but you must incur eligible expenses first and then get reimbursed.
Do I have to repay the funds?
No, this is a reimbursement, not a loan, so there is no repayment obligation.
How much money can I get?
You can be reimbursed for 75% of eligible expenses, up to $5,000 per award.
Who is eligible?
SBA-defined small businesses located and operating in Wyoming, with export-ready products (at least 51% U.S. content) and at least one full-time non-owner employee.
What expenses are covered?
Costs related to international marketing events and trade missions, such as trade show or trade mission participation.
Is there a requirement during the funded event?
Yes, recipients must hold business-to-business meetings with potential international clients during the event.
What is the deadline to apply?
The listing says to check current rounds — confirm the current deadline at the official source.
Where do I apply?
Apply through the Wyoming Business Council at https://wyomingbusiness.org/business/expand/state-trade-expansion-program/.
Who administers this program?
The Wyoming Business Council administers STEP, with partial funding from the U.S. SBA.
Is this available outside Wyoming?
No, this program is limited to businesses located in and operated from Wyoming.
Is the award amount taxable?
This is not stated in the available information — confirm at the official source.
Can new businesses without export experience apply?
The eligibility criteria require export-ready products, so businesses should confirm readiness details at the official source.
Opportunity number: not published. Source: curated + verified (official state source, 2026). GetFundedUSA is independent and not affiliated with Wyoming Business Council; always confirm current deadlines, amounts and eligibility on the sponsor's own page before applying.