Market Access Program

The STEP Market Access Program is a funding program designed to support the domestic and international marketing efforts of STEP Regular Members. You can apply for non-repayable contributions of up to $6,000 per fiscal year. Each funding application must not exceed 50% of eligible costs for initial visits or 30% for return visits.

Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership

Overview of the Market Access Program program:

Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership’s Market Access Program (MAP) is a program designed to support the domestic and international marketing efforts of STEP members. Funds are provided to assist STEP member companies in entering a new markets or making a return visit (within 24 months of the initial visit) to a new market, outside of Saskatchewan. New market sectors within established geographical markets will be considered.

Benefits of the Market Access Program program:

Non-repayable contributions of up to $6,000 per fiscal year for Saskatchewan companies exhibiting in a trade show, trade event, or trade mission in a new export market. You can apply for up to a 50% reimbursement of eligible costs for an initial visit to a new market, or a 30% reimbursement for a return trip to a new market.

Eligibility criteria of the Market Access Program program:

Eligible Costs for Reimbursement under the Market Access Program (MAP):
Travel Expenses:
Airfare: Up to 50% reimbursement for the lowest economy fare for up to two company representatives from Saskatchewan to the destination. For return trips to a new market within 24 months of the first visit, or if participating in a STEP-led mission without exhibiting, reimbursement is 30%. Airfare for flights originating outside Saskatchewan is not covered.
Mileage: Reimbursement based on the current provincial mileage rate for driving from Saskatchewan to the destination.
Accommodations: Reimbursement for hotel costs for up to two representatives.
Ground Transportation: Includes local transportation costs within the target market.
Trade Show Expenses:
Booth Costs: Includes booth space, furnishings (e.g., carpet, electrical setup, display case, table, and chairs), and registration fees.
Virtual Exhibiting Costs: If participating in a virtual trade show, related costs are eligible.
Booth Shipping: Costs for shipping your booth to the trade show are covered.
Translation and Interpretation:
Marketing Material Translation: Costs to translate brochures, product listings, and other marketing materials for the specific event are eligible.
Interpreter Services: Hiring an accredited interpreter for the target market is also reimbursable.