State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant Supports International Marketing and Skills Development  Portland, ME - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), today announced a $145,000 grant award to Maine International Trade Center to support export growth among Maine small businesses.  The funding was awarded through SBA's competitive State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). "With more than two-thirds of the world's purchasing power outside the US it's critical for businesses to reach out to customers beyond our borders." said Marilyn Geroux, SBA District Director for Maine. "The Maine District Office is thrilled to see Maine International Trade Center recognized with a STEP Grant which will be used in the critical work they do with small businesses in Maine." "We're thrilled to be able to extend the great work of the STEP grant for another year," said Wade Merritt, Vice President and STEP Project Director at Maine International Trade Center.  "Over the past 4 years, we've been able to support 97 company projects in overseas markets, which resulted in nearly $7 million in new exports - representing a 26 to 1 return on SBA's investment of just over $250,000."  These awards are granted to U.S. states and territories to support programs that help small businesses expand their export-related activities.  This includes participation in foreign trade missions, foreign market sales trips, subscription services for access to international markets, as well as the design of international marketing campaigns, export trade show exhibits, export training workshops and more. Eligible Maine businesses may receive up to $8,000 in reimbursements for costs associated with these activities.