Wisconsin businesses aiming to grow or jump-start export success can apply for grants of up to $25,000 through the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation to help cover expenses in navigating global trade.
Applications for International Market Access Grants are open through March 15. Companies can begin the application process or ask questions by contacting Global Trade and Investment Grant Manager Katie Ujdak at 608.210.6773 or katie.ujdak@wedc.org.
“These grants help businesses bring their export strategies to life and strengthen their footing in the international marketplace,” said WEDC Vice President of Global Trade and Investment Katy Sinnott. “With a proven track record among more than 400 past grant recipients, the grants help broaden their reach and grow sales with lower financial risk to the company.”
To apply, a Wisconsin company must have been in operation for at least a year; must have annual revenues less than $100 million; and must manufacture, process, assemble, or distribute a product or offer services able to be exported. Wisconsin cost inputs must make up at least 35% of the value of an exported product or service, and companies must match 30% of the grant funding received.
The grants, available to companies new to exporting and to those with previous export experience, provide two levels of support.
Graduates of ExporTech, a WEDC-sponsored program that helps small and midsize Wisconsin manufacturers tap into new markets with a customized export expansion strategy, are eligible to receive up to $25,000. Eligible applicants that have not completed ExporTech can receive up to $10,000.
Recipients can be reimbursed for trade show attendance, marketing and promotion, export education, and consulting services. In their proposals, applicants should focus on a single country or small group of nations with a clear reasoning for targeting the area and should strategically identify activities that will advance their export goals.
