Export Market Development Grant

Posted by Areesh Ishtiaq
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Apr 29, 2025
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The Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) is a government-backed initiative designed to help Australian businesses expand into international markets. Whether you’re a startup looking to reach new customers abroad or an established business aiming to scale, the EMDG provides the financial support you need to break into global markets. With a range of eligible expenses and a streamlined application process, the EMDG can be the catalyst for your global growth.

What is the Export Market Development Grant?

The Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) is a key government program designed to support Australian businesses that are actively working to expand into international markets. The grant reimburses a portion of the costs businesses incur when promoting their products or services abroad.

The grant is available to eligible businesses to offset export promotion costs, helping to reduce the financial burden of international expansion. EMDG can cover up to 50% of eligible expenses for activities like marketing, travel, and trade fairs. By covering part of these expenses, the grant encourages more businesses to invest in global outreach, thereby increasing their competitiveness on the world stage.

How the Export Market Development Grant Can Benefit Your Business

The EMDG provides a host of advantages for businesses looking to expand internationally, including financial relief and a competitive edge in global markets.

Financial Support for Export Activities

One of the biggest challenges when expanding internationally is the high cost of export promotion. The EMDG alleviates this financial strain by reimbursing businesses for up to 50% of eligible export-related expenses. This allows you to invest more in market research, promotional campaigns, and international travel, without worrying about the high upfront costs.

Broad Range of Eligible Expenses

The EMDG covers a wide array of eligible expenses related to export promotion. This includes costs for marketing materials, advertising, market research, attending trade fairs, and even travel to international markets. By covering these costs, the grant helps businesses mitigate the financial risks of entering new markets and accelerates the process of international growth.

Enhanced Global Competitiveness

For businesses looking to grow their footprint, the EMDG ensures that the costs associated with global expansion are not prohibitive. With the financial support provided by the EMDG, businesses can better compete with international players in their industry. This financial assistance helps Australian businesses reach a broader audience, creating new opportunities for revenue and growth in the global marketplace.

Eligibility Criteria for the Export Market Development Grant

To qualify for the Export Market Development Grant, businesses must meet certain eligibility criteria. Understanding these requirements will help ensure that your business is prepared for the application process.

Who is Eligible?

Australian businesses engaged in export promotion activities are eligible to apply for the EMDG. The program is designed to assist businesses of all sizes, although eligibility is generally determined by the amount spent on export promotion activities.

Turnover and Export Requirements

Your business must have a turnover of less than $50 million in the financial year. The EMDG is specifically designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to ensure that smaller companies have the opportunity to compete globally.

Additionally, your business must be involved in exporting Australian-made goods or services and be promoting them in international markets.

Eligible Industries

The EMDG is open to a wide variety of industries, including:

  • Manufacturing

  • Agriculture

  • Technology

  • Education

  • Health and Biotech

  • Services and Consulting

If your business is involved in promoting Australian-made products or services abroad, you’re likely eligible to apply.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Export Market Development Grant

The application process for the EMDG is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure your business is fully prepared.

Step 1: Understand the Eligibility Requirements

Before starting your application, ensure your business meets the EMDG eligibility criteria outlined above. The more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documentation

Next, gather all necessary documentation, which may include:

  • Financial statements

  • Invoices for eligible export promotion expenses

  • Marketing and advertising materials used for international promotion

  • Evidence of international trade missions or events attended

Having your documentation in order will make the application process much more efficient.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have your documents ready, submit your application to Austrade, the official government agency managing the EMDG. You can do this via their online portal. The application process will require you to provide detailed information on your export activities and related expenses.

Step 4: Await Approval and Funding

Once your application is submitted, Austrade will review your application and determine if your business qualifies for the grant. If your application is approved, you will be reimbursed for a portion of your eligible expenses.


H2: Commonly Covered Expenses for EMDG Applications

The EMDG reimburses businesses for a wide range of expenses related to export promotion. Here are some of the most commonly covered costs:

Marketing and Advertising

Expenses related to marketing campaigns, advertising, and promotional materials used to target international markets are eligible for reimbursement. This includes print ads, digital marketing, and promotional videos.

Trade Fairs and Exhibitions

The EMDG also covers the cost of attending international trade fairs, exhibitions, and business events. These events provide valuable networking opportunities and allow businesses to showcase their products to a global audience.

Travel and Accommodation

Costs associated with travel to international markets, including flights, accommodation, and local transportation, are covered. These expenses are essential for businesses seeking to establish international relationships and expand their presence abroad.

Market Research

The cost of market research activities to understand new international markets is also covered. This could include hiring consultants, conducting surveys, and analyzing international trends.

Why Choose Us to Help with Your Export Market Development Grant Application?

Navigating the application process for the Export Market Development Grant can be complex, but with the right support, it becomes a seamless experience. Here's why businesses trust us to guide them through the EMDG process:

Expertise in the EMDG Process

We specialize in helping businesses successfully apply for the EMDG. Our team has extensive experience with the program and understands the requirements inside and out. We’ll ensure your application is complete, accurate, and well-prepared to maximize your chances of approval.

Maximized Grant Potential

Our experts will help you identify all eligible expenses, ensuring that you receive the maximum grant available. We can assist you in gathering and presenting the necessary documentation, making sure that no eligible cost is overlooked.

Personalized Service

We offer hands-on, personalized support throughout the entire process. From the initial consultation to submitting your application, we’re with you every step of the way.

Start Your EMDG Application Today

Ready to take your business global? Contact us today to start your Export Market Development Grant application. Let us help you unlock the funding and resources you need to expand your business internationally.

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