International Market Access Grant

The International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE) is administered by the Ohio Department of Development to support Ohio-based businesses in expanding their export capabilities and increasing international sales. The program is partially funded through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s State Trade Expansion Program, reflecting a collaborative effort between state and federal resources to strengthen small business competitiveness in global markets. The initiative is designed to reduce financial barriers for companies seeking to enter or grow in international markets by reimbursing a portion of eligible export-related expenses. The primary purpose of the IMAGE program is to assist Ohio companies in developing and executing export strategies that lead to measurable increases in international sales. The grant supports a wide range of activities that directly contribute to market expansion, including participation in international trade shows, trade missions, and market visits, as well as services such as compliance testing, export credit insurance, and marketing material translation. These activities must be pre-approved by the program, ensuring alignment with strategic export objectives and appropriate use of funds. Funding is structured as a reimbursement grant, covering 50 percent of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $10,000 per program year. This implies that companies may incur up to $20,000 in qualifying costs to receive the full reimbursement. The grant year operates on a fixed cycle beginning October 1 and ending September 29, or earlier if funds are exhausted. Awards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and incomplete applications may be corrected within a limited timeframe. If funds are depleted, eligible applicants may be placed on a waitlist pending additional funding availability. Eligibility is limited to Ohio-based, for-profit businesses that manufacture, assemble, or distribute products or provide exportable services. Companies must meet U.S. Small Business Administration size standards, have been operational for at least one year, and maintain good standing with state agencies. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate that their products contain at least 51 percent U.S. content and must present a clear and viable export strategy. Compliance with federal restrictions, including avoidance of transactions with excluded parties, is also required. The application process requires companies to submit proposals outlining intended export activities and associated costs. All activities must receive approval prior to execution, and the earliest eligible start date is either the approval date or October 1, whichever is later. For export training grants, reimbursement is contingent upon successful completion of the training, with requests due within 30 days of completion. While specific evaluation criteria are not explicitly detailed, the requirement for a strategic export plan suggests that feasibility, alignment with export goals, and potential impact on sales are key considerations. The program operates on a recurring annual cycle, with applications accepted during the funding period until resources are exhausted. There is no single fixed deadline due to the rolling nature of funding availability, but the structured grant year provides a consistent framework for planning and participation. Contact for program inquiries, including application and reimbursement processes, is provided via an official state email address. Overall, IMAGE serves as a targeted economic development tool aimed at enhancing Ohio’s export economy by supporting small businesses in accessing and succeeding in global markets.

Ensure export activities are clearly defined and aligned with a strategic plan; obtain approval before incurring expenses; submit complete applications promptly due to first-come funding