If your Saskatchewan business is planning to export or already sells outside Canada, finding good trade support can be a challenge. STEP Trade Development Services is not a cash grant. Instead, it offers practical export help that many businesses miss. The program is run by the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP) and focuses on real-world support to help you enter new markets and grow sales internationally.
STEP Trade Development Services is an advisory and support program. It does not give out funding. Instead of providing money, STEP connects Saskatchewan exporters with trade experts, market research, and global contacts. This support can lower risks and help your export business grow faster.
Main services include:
This kind of support is useful if you plan to apply for export grants later. Good market research and a clear export plan can make your grant applications stronger.
To use STEP Trade Development Services, your business must meet two main requirements:
STEP is meant for businesses that export, but you do not have to be an experienced exporter. If you are new to exporting, STEP can help you get ready and choose the right markets before moving to bigger trade activities.
To become a STEP member, you need to:
After you join, you can work with STEP trade advisors and use all their services.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Saskatchewan export programs—including advisory services like STEP and export funding—by province and industry.
No, STEP Trade Development Services does not give direct funding or pay back expenses. It is a trade advisory and support service.
Many businesses use STEP advice together with grant programs, such as CanExport or Saskatchewan export funding. STEP advisors often help you pick the best markets and activities, which may later become eligible for grant support.
Companies in many sectors—like agri-food, manufacturing, technology, and professional services—use STEP to:
STEP is most helpful when used early, before you spend big on marketing or travel in new markets.
Thinking STEP is only for big exporters
Small and mid-sized businesses, including first-time exporters, can use STEP if they are ready to export.
Waiting until problems happen
STEP works best before you enter a new market, not after you face shipping or deal issues.
Expecting cash support
STEP does not pay your costs. If you need funding, use STEP advice along with export grant programs.
Not using STEP and grants together
Export grants often want to see market research and planning. STEP can help you build those foundations.
Q: What are STEP Trade Development Services?
STEP Trade Development Services offer export advice, market research, and trade help for Saskatchewan businesses. The focus is on practical support, not financial help.
Q: Who can use STEP Trade Development Services?
You must be based in Saskatchewan and be a STEP member. Services are for businesses that export or are getting ready to export.
Q: Is STEP a grant or funding program?
No. STEP does not give cash funding. It offers advice, research, and connections.
Q: Can new exporters use STEP services?
Yes. New exporters can use STEP. The support may start with export readiness, planning, and market choice.
Q: Does STEP help with trade missions and logistics?
Yes. STEP supports trade missions, networking, and gives advice on shipping and trade rules.
After the FAQs, remember that GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—including export funding that can be used with STEP’s advisory services.
STEP Trade Development Services can help your business decide where to export and how to do it with less risk. Once you know your target markets and have a plan, the next step is to find funding that fits your export goals. GrantHub can help you discover export grants and trade programs that match your business, your province, and your growth plans.
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