Global Gateway
About this page. This page explains the Global Gateway program in plain language. Global Gateway is led by the Maryland Office of International Investment and Trade (OIIT). Funding for the Soft Landing Exchange track is provided through the ExportMD Program.
Program Status
The program is active. Both tracks are accepting applications.
What This Program Does
Global Gateway pairs international companies with partnering incubators and organizations so they can “soft land” in a new market at an affordable rate — testing a market before committing to it fully.
It serves two audiences through two tracks.
Which Track Is Yours
- Foreign companies exploring the U.S. market — see the Soft Landing Program below
- Maryland companies expanding internationally — see the Soft Landing Exchange below
For Foreign Companies — Soft Landing Program
The Soft Landing Program gives international companies a low-risk, affordable way to explore the U.S. market before going “all-in.” Program partners provide access to facilities, resources, advisors, and more, and eligible companies can receive funding toward the costs of entering the market.
For Maryland Companies — Soft Landing Exchange
The Soft Landing Exchange gives Maryland companies an affordable way to test expanding into new markets abroad. Through a network of official partners in strategic markets around the world, participating companies explore new markets with access to facilities, resources, networking, and advisors.
Legal Notices and Required Language
Commerce does not publish an authorizing statute for Global Gateway. The program is administered by the Office of International Investment and Trade.
Funding authority:
- Soft Landing Exchange funding is provided through the ExportMD Program, which is funded in part through a grant with the U.S. Small Business Administration under the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), in accordance with Section 632 of Public Law 117-328.
Per the ExportMD disclaimer: Maryland’s total STEP program cost is $733,333, of which the Federal Share is $550,000 (75%) and the Non-Federal Share is $183,333.
Applicants should confirm the complete legal and funding requirements with the program contacts listed above.
Related Resources
Contact
Maryland Department of Commerce
Office of International Investment and Trade
401 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21202
410-767-6300 | 1-888-246-6736
Jason Callejas
International Investment and Trade Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 667-263-9354