Export Ready Program SA

Purpose and Program Overview

The Export Ready Program SA is designed to support South Australian businesses in building export capability and entering international markets. Its objective is to help companies grow globally through financial assistance, advisory services, and access to global trade networks.

The program encompasses several initiatives, including the Global Expansion Program, the South Australian Export Accelerator (SAEA), and the Export Diversification Grants. Collectively, these programs provide businesses at different stages of their export journey with targeted support, ranging from entry-level readiness resources to expansion into multiple markets.

In addition to funding, the Export Ready Program SA offers structured guidance, mentoring, and tools such as Export Essentials, ensuring businesses develop the skills and strategic planning required to compete internationally. The broader goal is to diversify South Australia’s export base, create sustainable jobs, and reduce reliance on single overseas markets.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount or funding range:
  • Global Expansion Program: up to $50,000
  • SAEA Streams: $15,000 – $200,000, depending on stream
  • Export Diversification Grants: funding pool of $1 million (details pending)
• Application open and close dates:
  • Global Expansion Program 2024 round closed in November 2024; next round dates TBC
  • Export Diversification Grants expected to open by October 2025
• Eligible industries or business types: South Australian SMEs across goods and services sectors
• Required co-contributions: Yes, matched funding required under SAEA and Global Expansion Program
• Location/state/territory applicability: South Australia

Priority Sectors

• No specific priority sectors are mandated
• Open to a broad range of industries producing tradeable goods or services

Funding Scope

• Global Expansion Program: Up to $50,000 per business for international market development and expansion activities
• SA Export Accelerator (SAEA):
  • Export Accelerator Stream – up to $30,000
  • New Market Entry Stream – up to $15,000
  • Consortium Stream – up to $200,000 (minimum three SMEs applying jointly)
• Export Diversification Grants: Case management and financial support from a $1 million pool to assist exporters affected by trade disruptions
• Eligible duration: Project timelines vary by stream, generally covering short- to medium-term export activities

Grant Amount in Total

• Global Expansion Program: up to $50,000 per entity
• SAEA Streams: $15,000 – $200,000, depending on stream
• Export Diversification Grants: $1 million funding pool (program-wide)

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a registered South Australian business with an ABN
• Meet the SME definition under the relevant program streams
• Demonstrate export readiness or potential to expand internationally
• Have a tradeable good or service made in South Australia
• For Emerging Exporter Grants: annual turnover between $50,000 and $1 million
• Provide matching co-contributions where applicable

Eligible Activities and Expenses

Export Ready Program SA Funding can support:

• Market research and entry strategies
• Participation in international trade shows and missions
• Export marketing and promotional materials
• Specialist consultancy services for market development
• Product adaptation or certification to meet international standards
• Business-to-business networking and consortium building

Assessment Process

• Export Ready Program SA is competitive
• Applications are assessed on:
  • Export readiness and growth potential
  • Alignment with South Australia’s trade objectives
  • Demonstrated capability to deliver proposed activities
  • Value for money and expected economic benefits
  • Evidence of co-contribution

Recent Program Updates

• Global Expansion Program 2024 round closed in November 2024
• Export Diversification Grants announced in the 2025–2026 State Budget, with $1 million allocated to help businesses diversify markets
• Updates expected in October 2025 for new program guidelines and funding rounds

Application Tips

• Review all eligibility requirements before applying
• Ensure financial records and turnover details are accurate and current
• Tailor the application to demonstrate clear export outcomes
• Provide evidence of market research and growth opportunities
• Highlight alignment with South Australia’s economic and trade priorities
• Prepare a matched funding plan in advance

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit the Export SA website for resources, guidelines, and application support.