Through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC) International Trade Program, Van Andel Global Trade Center (VAGTC) assists Small and Medium-Sized Businesses with export resources at low or no cost. VAGTC supports companies in developing the operational and technical infrastructure needed to expand and/or support their sales into global markets. Our comprehensive programs include:

Export Infrastructure Assistance: Designed for Michigan businesses that are new to exporting, this program helps establish the essential infrastructure needed to support and/or expand sales into international markets.

Export Compliance Projects: VAGTC specializes in helping businesses navigate the complexities of international trade regulations to ensure long-term export success. Our services include Harmonized Schedule (HS) reviews, Free Trade Agreement (FTA) assessments, export documentation development, Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) setup, and export controls compliance. We guide companies in meeting regulatory requirements and maximizing export opportunities while avoiding costly penalties.

Customized International Training: We offer tailored on-site or virtual training sessions to enhance your team’s understanding of export processes. Whether you’re looking to streamline current operations or introduce new practices, our training minimizes costly delays and ensures smooth, efficient export sales.

New-to-Export Workshops: These workshops provide essential first steps and resources for businesses new to exporting, helping them build the foundational knowledge and systems required to enter global markets successfully.

The Business Travelers Virtual Series: Understanding cultural nuances is vital for successful global sales. This series educates U.S. business professionals on best practices for engaging with various cultures, equipping Michigan companies to expand their sales reach into new export markets.

Worldwide Credit Reports: Our credit reports provide valuable insights into the operations, stability, and creditworthiness of potential foreign business partners, enabling Michigan businesses to make informed decisions about expanding into new markets.

Ready to take your business global? VAGTC is here to support you at every step. Reach out to learn more about how our expert guidance and tailored solutions can help your business thrive in international markets.

Van Andel Global Trade Center can help get your business connected to MEDC's State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). Through Michigan's State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), MEDC leverages federal, state, and local partnerships to deliver export services statewide. This program is the gateway to export services for Michigan businesses.

STEP works to increase the number of small business exporters. It increases the value of exports for those who currently sell outside of the U.S. Qualifying Michigan companies can use the program to help diversify their customer base, provide long-term stability, and create new jobs. Continue reading for more information on how your company could benefit from this program or visit, www.michiganbusiness.org.

CURRENT FUNDING PERIOD: November 1, 2024, through September 15, 2025 for small- and medium-sized businesses pursuing export development. MI-STEP grants are competitive awards and funding is not guaranteed. Companies that may not qualify for MI-STEP or do not receive MI-STEP funding are encouraged to engage with Michigan’s network of international trade resources and service providers offering support for businesses at any point along their international growth journey. These services include B2B matchmaking, qualified and unqualified partner lists, worldwide credit reports, export compliance support, customized market research, and more –available at no cost to Michigan small businesses.

Note: All activities must take place during this time.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The MEDC International Trade Program has a new allocation of State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) funds available for eligible small business concerns. On October 1, 2024, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) awarded Michigan $900,000 in MI-STEP funds for FY25. With additional state match funding, the total funds available are $1.2 million.

The program has three primary objectives:

• Increase the number of Michigan small businesses that export
• Increase the dollar value of Michigan exports
• Increase the number of Michigan small businesses exploring significant new trade opportunities

MI-STEP applications are accepted annually from November 1 through September 15 pending funding availability. Applications must be received a minimum of three (3) business days prior to the start date of travel or the start date of an eligible non-travel activity. Applications that do not meet this requirement are not eligible and will not be processed or approved. Reimbursements are subject to funding availability on a first-come, first-served basis regardless of application approval status.

Program funds may be approved for export marketing-related activities including:

1. Participation in a foreign trade mission
   - Participation fees
   - Basic economy airfare and
   - Lodging expenses at the nightly federal per diem rate
    
2. Participation in international trade shows
   - Booth space fees, associated booth space expenses i.e. electrical, furniture, carpet
   - Basic economy airfare and
   - Lodging expenses at the nightly federal per diem rate
    
3. Up to three lifetime participations in U.S.-based trade shows where at least 20% international attendance can be demonstrated by the company
   - Booth space fees, associated booth space expenses i.e. electrical, furniture, carpet
   - Basic economy airfare and
   - Lodging expenses at the nightly federal per diem rate
    
4. Participation in foreign market sales trips
   - Basic economy airfare
   - Lodging expenses at the nightly federal per diem rate
   - USCS Gold Key services

Up to $15,000 in assistance is available to offset 50 percent of pre-approved expenses per fiscal year. Michigan companies must meet the following eligibility criteria to qualify for MI-STEP funds:

1. Be in accordance with Small Business Administration (SBA) guidelines and size standards: www.sba.gov/content/small-business-size-standards
2. Be able to provide, upon request, a copy of a Michigan LARA Annual Report Filing OR a copy of sole proprietorship or limited partnership filing from the county registrar's office.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the costs associated with exporting and doing business with foreign purchasers, including the costs of freight forwarding, customs brokers, packing, and shipping, per SBA guidelines
4. Demonstrate potential for export success and positive impact on the regional economy
5. Provide an EIN number linked to a Michigan address
6. Be in good standing with the Michigan Department of Treasury and other regulatory agencies
7. Must be an export-ready U.S. company seeking to export goods or services of U.S. origin or have at least 51 percent U.S. content
8. Be able to demonstrate minimum gross annual revenue of $100k
9. Be a full-time means of employment
10. Demonstrate a competitive advantage and capability of entering international markets against local products and services
11. Wholesale distributors of imported products are ineligible
12. MI-STEP program utilization is not guaranteed and is subject to past performance, program compliance, return on investment (ROI) and a demonstrated export growth need as detailed in the export strategic plan

Determine U.S. Content

Ineligible expenses include:

• Meals, entertainment, cell phone charges, gifts, personal expenses, giveaways, promotional items, clothing, etc.
• Passport and visa fees
• Immunization and COVID-related testing expenses
• Travel reimbursement for distributors or sales representatives not employed by the Michigan company
• Fees for shipping products to be sold in market
• Printing materials/services
• Ground transportation including but not limited to mileage, taxis, Ubers, trains, and rental cars
• Annual membership fees and dues, conferences, annual meetings, and symposiums

Please also note:

• Travel reimbursement is limited to two (2) travelers who must be U.S. citizens
• Flights must adhere to Fly America/Open Skies agreements. Only economy flights are eligible for reimbursement — no upgrades. Flight eCredits are ineligible

Contact your ITM to Apply

For more information on the upcoming Trade Missions, Trade Shows and Exporting Events & Trainings visit the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's website.