US Small Business Export Support: Programs, Loans & Resources

Why Most Small Businesses Are Leaving Money on the Table

Fewer than 5% of America's 33 million small businesses sell outside the US. Among those that do, 58% sell to only one country. The federal government has built substantial infrastructure to close this gap.

SBA Export Loans

Export Express Loan

Up to 00,000 with 90% SBA guarantee on loans up to 50K. 24-36 hour turnaround. Covers marketing, trade shows, working capital, standby letters of credit. See our SBA Express Loan guide.

Export Working Capital Loan

Up to million, 90% SBA guarantee. Short-term financing for fulfilling export orders: inventory, raw materials, labor and overhead tied to international production.

International Trade Loan

Up to million, 90% guarantee. Longer terms for facility expansion, equipment, or debt refinancing to compete in export markets. All three work through SBA-approved lenders with standard SBA 7(a) eligibility.

EXIM Bank

• Export Credit Insurance: Protects receivables against foreign buyer non-payment (commercial and political risk)
• Working Capital Guarantees: Helps secure loans from commercial lenders by guaranteeing repayment
• Direct Loans to Foreign Buyers: Your international customers can finance purchases of US goods

EXIM has a congressional mandate to dedicate financing to small businesses.

US Commercial Service

Trade specialists in 75+ countries and 100+ US cities.

• Gold Key Matching: Pre-screened appointments with vetted buyers, distributors and partners
• Market research and trade leads: Demand data, competition analysis, tariffs and regulations

The biggest mistake small businesses make is assuming exporting is only for large companies. The infrastructure supports a five-person shop selling to buyers in Germany or Japan.

STEP Grants

State Trade Expansion Program: ,000-0,000 per company for trade shows, export training, international marketing and trade missions. Each state administers its own program. Check with your state's SBDC. See also our 2026 grants guide.

USTDA and Trade Agreements

USTDA funds feasibility studies in developing markets for infrastructure, technology and energy projects. USMCA reduces/eliminates tariffs between the US, Mexico and Canada.

How to Start Exporting

1. Get trained: Free SBA export training through SBDCs and SCORE mentors
2. Pick one market: Use US Commercial Service research to identify best-fit
3. Apply for STEP grant: Fund your first trade show or mission
4. Secure financing: Export Express or EXIM working capital guarantee
5. Insure receivables: EXIM export credit insurance
6. Scale deliberately: International Trade Loans for capacity upgrades

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or regulatory advice. Always verify current requirements with official sources or a qualified advisor before taking action.

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