Connecting Alabama to the World
The Alabama Department of Commerce’s Office of International Trade aids the development and promotion of exports, and stands behind the belief that the health of our state's economy is a direct correlation to our competitive international business acumen. We offer plenty of paths to help business enter new profitable markets, including:
Alabama's State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Reimbursement Grant
Offering eligible Alabama small and medium-sized businesses assistance in launching or expanding export activities
Trade Missions
Participation in trade missions and other trade events focusing on Alabama’s top trading partners in promising markets
Customized Company Training
Instruction for business success on a global scale
Foreign Market Research
Providing vital information and beneficial international contacts to enhance success
Assets Support
Promoting the state through presentations, online databases, trade associations and publications
Opportunities Identification
Circulating key finance contacts and mining for investment potentials
Resource Connectivity
Aligning businesses with valuable resources for access to the best markets, distributors, and qualified agents

Publications
Alabama manages international business through a variety of touch points: professional development, first-class trade missions, distribution of qualified point-to-point international leads, and excellent trade publications.
International Trade Resource Guide
A seamless network exists throughout the state of Alabama where companies can reach federal, state and local agencies and organizations that provide special services to the international community. The Alabama International Trade Resource Guide addresses the information and resource needs of businesses in the state that are interested in creating or expanding their global presence. Over 300 private and public regional organizations whose goal is to serve the needs of the international community are listed.
Year in Trade
Alabama exports are fundamental to the prosperity of the state’s economy. The Year in Trade provides a quick overview of Alabama’s role in the global marketplace and illustrates the State’s top export markets.
Export Alabama Trade Strategy
The Export Alabama Alliance Strategy is developed annually with the input of the Export Alabama Alliance. This comprehensive strategic plan provides numerous opportunities for Alabama companies to build sustainable relationships throughout the world as well as opportunities to educate local leaders on the impact of trade.
