For Australian businesses with global ambitions, navigating the complexities and costs of international expansion can be a significant hurdle. This is where the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) program steps in, offering vital financial assistance to help Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) achieve their export dreams.
What is the EMDG Program?
Managed by Austrade, the Australian Government’s trade and investment agency, the EMDG program is a principal grant scheme that supports aspiring and current exporters. Its core purpose is to reimburse eligible marketing and promotional expenses incurred while trying to establish and grow in international markets.
Who Can Benefit?
EMDG is designed primarily for Australian SMEs across all industries. Whether you’re a first-time exporter looking to test the waters or an experienced exporter aiming to diversify into new territories, the program provides a crucial financial safety net. It specifically targets businesses looking to:
- Introduce new products or services to overseas markets.
- Expand into existing overseas markets.
- Develop new markets for existing products or services.
What Does It Cover?
The program provides up to 50% reimbursement of eligible marketing expenses, which can include a broad range of activities such as:
- Overseas travel: For business promotion.
- Marketing consultants: Fees for developing export strategies or market research.
- Trade fairs and exhibitions: Participation costs in overseas or domestic events for international audiences.
- Marketing visits: To potential overseas customers.
- Website development and marketing: Specifically tailored for international audiences.
- Costs of bringing overseas buyers to Australia.
- Specific promotional activities.
How Does It Work?
The EMDG program operates on a tiered system, offering up to eight years of grant funding across three tiers, supporting businesses at different stages of their export journey. Businesses first apply for a grant agreement, outlining their marketing plan, and then submit claims for eligible expenses incurred during the grant period. This structure ensures a predictable and supportive pathway for long-term export development.
Your Partner in Export Success
The EMDG program is more than just a grant; it’s a strategic partnership that reduces financial risk, encourages innovation in international marketing, and helps Australian businesses build a stronger global presence. By offsetting significant costs, EMDG allows businesses to invest more confidently in their export growth strategies, ultimately contributing to Australia’s economic prosperity.
Boost Your Export Journey with APG
Australian Procurement Group (APG) and the Navigate Australia Ecosystem actively facilitate international trade connections, including planned trade connection trips for Australian exporters to Vietnam and Korea for the financial year 2025-2026. Beyond these invaluable networking opportunities, APG can also provide expert guidance and support to exporters looking to apply for the EMDG grant, helping to streamline the application process and maximise your chances of success.
