Ashford: Export Jobs in Nebraska Receive Financial Boost

Press Release

Rep. Brad Ashford (NE-2) is pleased to report that eligible small businesses in Nebraska will soon be able to apply for funds under a federal-state program aimed at increasing exports with the potential of furthering job creation.

"This is an investment. In 2013, 62,000 jobs were supported by Nebraska goods exports," said Rep. Ashford. "Jobs supported by exports pay up to an estimated 18 percent above the national average."

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today that the State of Nebraska will receive $300,570 from the SBA's State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Program. That amount will likely be boosted by a 25 percent match from the State, bringing the total amount available to approximately $375,000.

The funds will provide financial assistance to small businesses from October 2015 through September 2016.Nebraska businesses wishing to participate in the STEP Program should contact the Nebraska Department of Economic Development's Office of International Trade and Investment.

The State of Nebraska will use STEP award funds to back export services including participation in the International Market Access Grant Program, ExporTech training, and direct market research to help identify potential international markets.

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