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Montana Secures $781,000 to Increase International Sales for Local Small Businesses- Attend the webinar on August 12 to learn more
Montana is set to receive $781,000 in federal grants to boost small business exports through the STEP program.
The Montana Department of Commerce announced this funding on July 22, 2026, marking one of the highest allocations nationwide. This injection aims to help Montana’s small exporters increase their international sales by reimbursing eligible marketing activities.
Administered via Commerce’s State Trade Expansion Program, the grant offers up to $30,000 per applicant annually, covering 50% of expenses such as trade show participation, market research, and digital marketing. Since 2011, Montana has secured $7.4 million in STEP funding and matched $2.4 million in state funds, supporting over 1,300 grants and 2,700 jobs. Paradise Dental Technologies in Missoula exemplifies the program’s impact, having used STEP funds in 2025 to expand globally. A training webinar on August 12 will guide businesses on applying for the grant and conducting international marketing.
Looking ahead, Montana’s $2.4 billion in exports and diverse product base could benefit significantly from this program, which may help local firms overcome geographic isolation and tap into global markets. The STEP funding might thus serve as a critical lever for Montana’s small businesses aiming to compete internationally.
For more information about Montana’s STEP Program, visit exportmontana.com. To apply for STEP funding, visit the application site.
On Aug. 12, Commerce’s Export team will offer its “Grants for International Sales” training webinar on the STEP grant and international marketing activities.
