BDSD is posting this open solicitation to provide public notice, promote fair competition, and to create a consistent documented procedure for evaluating and handling application proposals for the HiSTEP-CA program. Supported by a grant through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Hawaii State Trade Expansion Program (HiSTEP) is a multifaceted program designed to assist Hawaii small businesses with their export development. In addition to HiSTEP-Company Assistance (HiSTEP-CA), which involves this RFP, companies should familiarize themselves with the other components of HiSTEP since all the components are inextricably linked and reinforce each other. The other components are: • HiSTEP – Export Readiness Program (HiSTEP-ERP): A foundation program comprised of a series of export webinars/seminars and a one-on-one business advising session that prepare Hawaii companies to begin or expand their export market plans. At the conclusion of the program, companies will have a go-to-market strategy and export plan. • HiSTEP – Go Global (HiSTEP-GG): Activities include participation in Hawaii Pavilions at major international trade and consumer shows; and opportunity to conduct sales and promotion on various e-commerce platforms.
