Oklahoma Dept. of Commerce opens applications for 2026-27 STEP Fund

Businesses looking to enter the international market or grow their presence may benefit from a matching STEP Fund grant, funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration and administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. The STEP Fund supports small businesses of 500 employees or less by reimbursing a portion of trade show attendance costs and certain other foreign travel expenses.

Applicants must be incorporated in the United States and own an Oklahoma-based business that has been in operation at least 1 year at the time of funding. They must be a for-profit business that meets the SBA definition of a small business. They must be an export-ready business that is able to bear the added costs associated with international trade, such as shipping and customs brokers.

Companies may apply for reimbursement of a portion of expenses associated with participation in (a) international trade shows, or domestic trade shows with at least 20% international attendance; (b) foreign trade missions led by the Department of Commerce; and (c) export compliance training and assessment. See the OK Commerce website for the list of allowable expenses for each category.

The STEP 13 funding cycle runs from July 1, 2026, to September 29, 2027. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis during this period. An applicant may receive up to $8,800 for an international show or $5,600 for a domestic show. They may receive no more than three awards during the grant period totaling a maximum of $28,500.

The Chickasha EDC advises that prospective applicants discuss their application with a program coordinator before submission. Learn more on the OK Commerce STEP portal.