Global NY Fund gives $25,000 as export grants New York for international trade shows, market development & global expansion.
Getting export grants New York businesses actually use isn’t about checking boxes – it’s about proving you’re ready to compete internationally. The Global NY Fund Grant Program cuts through the red tape and delivers real funding: up to $25,000 for for-profit companies and $100,000 for nonprofits working with exporters. But let me be straight with you – this isn’t participation trophy money.
Empire State Development launched this program because too many NY businesses stay local when they could be selling globally. While other small business grants focus on general operations, this one specifically targets international market development. The reimbursement structure means you’re investing your own capital first, then getting paid back when you demonstrate results.
The program covers both companies just starting to export and those looking to expand existing international sales. What separates successful applicants from wishful thinkers? Export readiness. That means understanding freight forwarding, customs regulations, currency fluctuations, and foreign market requirements. Through the STEP program, NYS small businesses may apply for up to $10,000 in grants to begin exporting or increase their global exports, but the Global NY Fund provides significantly more funding for businesses ready for larger-scale international expansion.
Here’s what most grant guides won’t tell you: the 51% New York content requirement eliminates many applicants before they even start. Your product or service needs to derive the majority of its value from New York sources – raw materials, manufacturing, design, intellectual property, labor, marketing, distribution, warehousing. This isn’t just about having a New York mailing address.
For-profit businesses can secure up to $25,000 covering 50% of eligible project costs. Companies can apply twice per state fiscal year, but there’s a catch most people miss – you need to complete the first grant entirely, submit all documentation, and close out the project before submitting a second application. Unlike smaller business grants, this program requires substantial upfront planning and cash flow management.
Nonprofits have access to larger awards – up to $100,000 covering 75% of project costs – but they’re limited to one grant annually. The program specifically targets organizations that provide export assistance and trade education to New York State companies.
Q: What expenses actually qualify for reimbursement?
A: Trade show booth space, shipping costs, travel at government per diem rates, market customization services, product adaptations for foreign regulations, and export education.
Q: Can I start spending money before getting approval?
A: No, except for trade show booth deposits which are specifically allowed.
Q: How long before my first activity should I apply?
A: Minimum 60 days, but smart applicants submit 90+ days early.
The reimbursement basis eliminates speculative applications. You need sufficient working capital to cover expenses upfront, then wait for reimbursement after submitting documentation. This differs significantly from other business funding that provides capital upfront.
Trade shows represent the largest category of funded activities, and with good reason – they deliver measurable ROI when executed properly. The program covers booth space, shipping costs, and travel expenses for up to four employees (reduced to two for conferences and meetings). But successful exhibitors don’t just show up and hope for the best.
ESD is providing grants of up to $25,000 to help companies start exporting or increase their global exports. The key word here is “help” – the grant supplements your existing export strategy, it doesn’t create one for you.
International trade shows and domestic shows with significant international presence qualify for funding. The Department of Commerce maintains a list of certified International Buyer Program shows, but don’t limit yourself to that list. Industry-specific shows often provide better qualified leads than general trade events.
While general business grants might cover operational expenses, export grants specifically target market development activities. Travel reimbursement follows published government per diem rates – comfortable but not luxurious. The real value comes from the meetings you arrange before the show starts.
Q: Which trade shows provide the best ROI?
A: Industry-specific shows in markets where you’ve already identified potential distributors or customers.
Q: Should I focus on international or domestic trade shows?
A: Domestic shows with international buyer programs often provide better value for first-time exporters.
This funding category separates serious exporters from casual applicants. Market customization includes translation services, but we’re not talking about basic website translation. Professional technical translation for regulatory compliance, product documentation, and marketing materials requires specialized expertise and carries corresponding costs.
Product adaptation covers modifications needed to meet mandatory foreign government regulations, geographic conditions, or buyer preferences. This is where companies often underestimate both time and expense requirements. CE marking for European markets, UL listing for various countries, packaging modifications for different climates – these aren’t optional suggestions, they’re market entry requirements.
Veterans starting export businesses particularly benefit from this category, as military experience often provides unique insights into international logistics and regulatory compliance.
Q: Does translation qualify if I use online services?
A: Professional translation services qualify, but automated translation tools don’t meet program standards.
Q: What about product liability insurance for international sales?
A: Insurance costs generally don’t qualify, but compliance testing and certification expenses do.
Don’t overlook this category. Export education includes conferences, seminars, webinars, and courses for employees developing or implementing international strategies. The program recognizes that successful exporting requires specialized knowledge that most domestic businesses don’t possess.
Currency hedging, international payment terms, Incoterms, export documentation, customs procedures – these topics sound dry but they’re critical for profitable international sales. Food businesses particularly benefit from export education focused on international food safety regulations and import requirements.
The Department of Commerce offers various export education programs, and many qualify for reimbursement under this category. Private training programs also qualify if they focus specifically on export development rather than general business management.
Before you touch the application, contact your regional ESD Global NY representative. This isn’t a suggestion – it’s practically mandatory for approval. Each region has dedicated representatives who understand local business conditions and can provide specific guidance on strengthening your application.
The application requires substantial documentation: Certificate of Incorporation, detailed line-item budget using their specific spreadsheet template, vendor quotes for all third-party services, recent tax returns, and a comprehensive project work plan. Generic applications get rejected. Specific, well-documented applications with realistic budgets get approved.
Unlike micro-grants that might accept brief applications, the Global NY Fund requires thorough preparation and professional presentation.
Q: What’s the biggest application mistake?
A: Treating this like general business funding instead of export-specific market development.
Q: Should I hire help with the application?
A: Professional assistance often improves approval odds, especially for first-time applicants.
Each region has assigned representatives who know local businesses, understand regional export opportunities, and can connect you with additional resources. These aren’t bureaucrats pushing paper – they’re economic development professionals with real industry experience.
Capital District businesses work with different representatives than Western NY companies, and they understand regional advantages. Buffalo companies might have Canadian market opportunities that NYC businesses don’t, while Long Island businesses might benefit from proximity to maritime shipping.
Q: Do I need to meet with my representative in person?
A: Phone consultations are acceptable, but in-person meetings often provide more detailed guidance.
Q: Can my representative help with other export programs?
A: Yes, they can connect you with EMAS, STEP, and other state export assistance programs.
This requirement eliminates more applications than any other factor. The calculation includes raw materials, component parts, manufacturing process, design, intellectual property, advertising, promotion, distribution, and warehousing. It’s not just about where you’re located – it’s about where value is created.
Manufacturing companies typically find this easier to document than service providers, but both can qualify with proper documentation. The key is understanding that intellectual property, design work, and marketing activities count toward New York content if performed by New York residents or companies.
Other regional grants may have different content requirements, but New York’s 51% rule specifically supports businesses creating substantial economic value within the state.
Alternative qualification exists for businesses certified as local producers through regional chambers of commerce or economic development agencies. “Made in NY” or “Made in Brooklyn” certifications can substitute for the 51% calculation, but you need official certification, not just local marketing claims.
The real value extends beyond the grant money. Recipients gain access to ESD’s international trade network, including overseas offices that provide local market intelligence and buyer connections. This network provides ongoing support that continues long after grant funds are expended.
The Export Marketing Assistance Service (EMAS) is a New York State program designed to help businesses find sales agents or distributors abroad. Grant recipients often transition to EMAS services for ongoing export development support.
The program also connects recipients with the Certificate of Free Sale program, helping companies meet foreign regulatory requirements that prove products meet U.S. safety standards. This documentation is often required for product registration in foreign markets.
Q: What ongoing support is available after the grant period?
A: Access to ESD’s international offices, EMAS services, and continued consultation with regional representatives.
Q: Can I apply for additional New York export programs?
A: Yes, the Global NY Fund often serves as an entry point to other state export assistance programs.
The reimbursement structure requires careful cash flow planning. You’ll advance all expenses, submit documentation, then wait for reimbursement. Processing time varies, but plan for 30-45 days minimum after submitting complete documentation.
Smart applicants establish dedicated export development credit lines or set aside sufficient working capital before beginning funded activities. Other state business grants might provide upfront funding, but the Global NY Fund’s reimbursement approach ensures you’re committed to successful completion.
Project Impact Reports are required after completion, documenting export sales increases, employment changes, and other measurable outcomes. These reports aren’t just bureaucratic paperwork – they’re used to evaluate program effectiveness and justify continued funding.
Successful applications demonstrate three key elements: export readiness, market research, and realistic cost estimates. Export readiness means understanding international logistics, payment terms, and regulatory requirements. Market research shows you’ve identified specific opportunities rather than hoping international sales will materialize.
Realistic cost estimates come from actual vendor quotes, not hopeful guesses. Professional translation services, booth construction, international shipping, regulatory compliance testing – these services have established market rates, and your budget should reflect them accurately.
Unlike general entrepreneurship grants, the Global NY Fund specifically targets businesses ready for international expansion rather than those exploring possibilities.
The program has funded everything from software companies exhibiting at European trade shows to food manufacturers adapting products for Asian markets. Success factors remain consistent regardless of industry: preparation, realistic planning, and commitment to measurable results.
Getting professional assistance with your application can significantly improve approval odds and ensure you’re maximizing available funding opportunities. At Grantaura, we’ve helped numerous New York businesses navigate this process and secure export grants that transformed their international growth trajectory. The application process is demanding, but the potential return – both financial and strategic – makes it worth the effort for businesses ready to compete globally. Schedule a consultation here if you want expert guidance on developing a winning Global NY Fund application strategy.
Donor: Empire State Development
Focus: export grants, international trade, small business expansion, trade shows, market development, export assistance, economic development, business funding
Region: New York State, United States
Eligibility:
– Located in New York State with business operations
– For-profit companies: 500 or fewer employees statewide
– For-profit companies: 51% of product/service value originates in New York OR certified as local producer by regional chamber/economic development agency
– For-profit companies: Business viable and operating for minimum one year
– For-profit companies: Demonstrated need for export assistance funding
– Nonprofit organizations: Demonstrated history providing export assistance to New York businesses
– Nonprofit organizations: Current registration with NY Attorney General Charities Bureau
– Nonprofit organizations: Prequalified with New York State Grants Gateway
– Understanding of international trade mechanics and export-related costs
– Consultation with assigned ESD Global NY regional representative required
Benefits:
– Financial Award: Up to $25,000 for for-profit businesses (50% cost share), up to $100,000 for nonprofits (75% cost share)
– Expert Guidance: Access to regional ESD Global NY representatives and international trade expertise
– Network Access: Connections to ESD international offices and foreign buyer networks
– Additional Programs: Eligibility for EMAS and other state export assistance services
– Regulatory Support: Access to Certificate of Free Sale program for foreign market compliance
– Ongoing Consultation: Continued export development support beyond grant period
Deadline: Rolling
Terms:
– Reimbursement Structure: All funds disbursed only after expenses incurred and documented, except trade show booth deposits
– Application Processing: Minimum 90 days average processing time, 60 days required lead time before first activity
– Multiple Applications: For-profit businesses limited to two grants per state fiscal year (April 1 – March 31) with first grant completion required before second submission
– Nonprofit Frequency: One grant award per calendar year maximum
– Required Consultation: Mandatory discussion with regional ESD Global NY representative before application submission
– Cost Documentation: All third-party services require vendor quotes, all expenses require receipts for reimbursement
– Impact Reporting: Project Impact Reports documenting export sales, employment, and other measurable outcomes required post-completion
– Audit Compliance: Applications subject to audit requirements for up to six years following fund disbursement
Author: The Global NY Fund represents exactly why Imran Ahmad created Grantaura – to help businesses understand that the best funding opportunities aren’t just about getting money, they’re about accessing systems that can transform your entire market approach. Imran’s experience with export grants has shown him that companies don’t fail because they lack international opportunities, they fail because they don’t understand how to navigate the export development process professionally. Through Grantaura, he’s helped New York businesses recognize that programs like Global NY Fund aren’t charity – they’re strategic investments in companies ready to compete internationally, and the businesses that approach them with that mindset are the ones that succeed.
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