NM STEP GRANT
The NM STEP GRANT 11 cycle will close September 30, 2025. Limited funding available awarded on a "first come, first served" basis.
Companies interested in applying need to schedule an initial consultation
by filling out the STEP Info Request Form below.
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GRANTS, NOT LOANS, FOR NM COMPANIES
The New Mexico State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant, funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration, is a reimbursement grant program that helps New Mexico companies gain or grow international sales. In October of 2023, the SBA awarded the New Mexico Economic Development Department $200,000 for the NM STEP Grant 11. Eligible companies may request up to $7,500 per grant cycle.
For over a decade, the NM STEP Grant has assisted the efforts of small businesses to begin exporting or expand into new markets by reimbursing the cost of eligible activities. By supporting export-ready and post-revenue companies’ international business development, the NM STEP Grant contributes to the increase in the number of exports, value of exports, and number of jobs.
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The NMTA is proud to be the State of New Mexico’s administering partner for the NM STEP Grant.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
In order to be eligible for the NM STEP Grant, a company must meet all of the requirements listed.
STEP GRANT ACTIVITIES
Companies may use NM STEP Grant funds for the following eligible activities. Activities have different funding limits. To learn more about how NM STEP Grant funds may be used, please contact the NMTA. Awards are dependant on availability of funds.
NOTICE: Per the SBA guidelines, conferences are not eligible activities for the NM STEP Grant program.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Companies interested in NM STEP Grant funds are encouraged to first schedule a consultation to learn more about the program, discuss current business activity, determine export readiness, brainstorm eligible STEP Activities, and learn about other New Mexico export resources.
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NM STEP Grant 11 Application forms will become available to companies after a company consultation meeting is held.
01
Company Consultation
One-on-one meeting with STEP Team to discuss the program, evaluate company eligibility, and discuss next steps.
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To schedule a consultation, please fill out the Information Request Form below.
02
Determine Activities and Prepare Documentation
Select the activities you will be applying for. Collect vendor quotes for the activities and draft a letter to NMEDD.
03
Complete Online STEP Application
With support from the STEP Team, complete additional application forms online and register as a vendor with the State of New Mexico.
04
Submission
Completed application packet is submitted to NMEDD for final evaluation by the STEP Team.
If your request is approved, NMEDD will issue an Approval Letter and Purchase Order.
REQUEST MORE INFORMATION
To learn more about the NM STEP Grant or request a consultation, please fill out the following form. You may also view more STEP grant information by visiting the State of New Mexico's Office of International Trade website.
For any other questions, please reach out to the NM STEP Grant Team at STEP@nmtradealliance.org.