The World Trade Center of Arkansas in Rogers received its third round of grant funding from the State Trade Export Program (STEP). This year's award totaled $207,535.
The grant was created to increase small business exports for the United States. The Trade Center also received this grant funding previously in 2011 to 2012.
“We are excited to be a STEP recipient again. We know first-hand the direct positive impact this grant has on Arkansas small business and the creation of jobs,” said Dan Hendrix, president and CEO of the World Trade Center Arkansas. “The STEP Grant also gives Arkansas companies opportunity to establish strategic partnerships globally that fosters long term growth.”
Small businesses within the United States will have access to $17.4 million dollars in funding to support small business export growth and job creation. This funding will support small business in foreign trade missions, foreign market sales trips, international marketing campaigns, trade shows and workshops.
“With 95% of the world’s consumer living outside the United States, SBA’s STEP program ensures that America’s small business can succeed in the 21st Century global economy,” SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet, noted in the release.