Illinois small businesses (under 500 employees, 1+ year operating, $250K+ revenue) can get 25%-75% of trade-mission travel and 50% of product compliance, website localization and export credit insurance costs reimbursed, up to $5,000–$10,000 per option.
Financial assistance for Illinois small businesses to grow exports through five options: Group Trade Missions, Individual Foreign Market Sales Missions, Product Compliance certification, Website Localization and eCommerce, and Ex-Im Bank export credit insurance. Travel reimbursement is 25%-75% (up to $5,000 for group missions and $10,000 for individual sales missions), and compliance, website and insurance costs are reimbursed at 50% up to $10,000 per company. Assistance is provided on a first come, first served basis.
Illinois firm with its headquarters and/or a substantial facility in Illinois
Small firm as defined by the SBA (less than 500 employees)
In operation for at least one year before the trade mission or trade show
Profitable with gross annual revenue of at least $250,000 (lesser revenue may be accepted if the company substantially contributes to Illinois job creation/retention)
Products and/or services contain at least 51% U.S.A. and 25% Illinois content (or substantially contribute to Illinois job creation/retention)
Not receiving other local, state or federal export promotion grant funds for the same activity (except ExporTech)
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Money can be used for
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