Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP) is a member-driven, non-profit provincial trade promotion agency in Saskatchewan, Canada. Established with the mission to aid Saskatchewan businesses in realizing their international market potential, STEP plays a pivotal role in enhancing the province's export capabilities. It targets industry sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and technology, promoting products and services to global markets. By providing a variety of services and resources, STEP works to strengthen the competitive position of Saskatchewan exporters in the global market.
A cornerstone of STEP's efforts is its support in building member companies' international trade capacity. Through its spectrum of services, STEP offers market intelligence, market development support, and trade advocacy. By understanding the trends and demands of global markets, STEP equips Saskatchewan businesses to better navigate international trade landscapes.
One of the significant resources STEP provides is access to funding and grants, which are instrumental for businesses seeking to expand their export capabilities. While STEP itself does not directly provide grants to businesses or non-profits, it plays an essential facilitative role in guiding its member companies towards available funding opportunities through provincial and federal programs.
STEP members can explore several funding sources, including the Saskatchewan Value-Added Agriculture Incentive, which aims to attract capital investments in the province's value-added agriculture sector. This initiative provides a non-refundable, non-transferable 15 percent tax credit on capital expenditures for newly constructed or expanded value-added agriculture facilities.
In addition to provincial incentives, federal programs are also accessible for Saskatchewan businesses, often with STEP's assistance in navigating these opportunities. The CanExport program, for example, managed by Global Affairs Canada, offers financial assistance to Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for export marketing activities. It covers various costs from travel to foreign markets to participation in trade shows, helping businesses secure new market opportunities.
Another valuable source of funding is through the Export Development Canada (EDC), which offers a range of financial solutions such as export insurance and bonding products. EDC’s services provide the necessary financial security and stability that enables businesses to pursue international ventures without apprehension. STEP members frequently leverage these federal programs to access the financial support needed for international growth.
The AgriMarketing Program, part of the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, is yet another federal initiative that STEP promotes among its agricultural sector members. This program supports industry-led promotional activities that differentiate Canadian products, thereby boosting market access and expansion efforts.
While STEP itself does not offer direct grant or funding programs, its role is to create pathways for Saskatchewan businesses to discover and obtain the necessary financial resources for international trade endeavors. Through workshops, seminars, and personalized consultations, STEP aids its members in understanding and applying for these financial supports, positioning them strategically to benefit from available provincial and federal opportunities.
In conclusion, Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership serves as a vital catalyst in the growth of Saskatchewan’s exporting industries. By leveraging its extensive network and expertise, STEP plays a significant role in linking its members with grants and financial supports, enabling them to overcome barriers and achieve success in international markets.
