Export Market Development Grants
Australian Government program reimbursing up to 50% of eligible export promotion expenses for Australian businesses seeking to develop international markets.
Overview
The Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) program is an Australian Government initiative administered by Austrade that provides financial assistance to Australian businesses to help develop and grow export markets. The program reimburses eligible export promotion expenses at up to 50% of costs, making international market development more affordable for small and medium-sized businesses. EMDG supports expenses for overseas business visits, international trade shows, marketing materials, foreign language promotional materials, and free samples. The program is tiered to support businesses at different stages of their export journey.
What You Can Find Here
- Tier 1 grants for businesses new to exporting (up to $40,000 per year)
- Tier 2 grants for growing exporters (up to $80,000 per year)
- Tier 3 grants for established exporters scaling international operations (up to $150,000 per year)
- Coverage for eligible export promotion expenses including trade fairs, overseas visits, and marketing
- Export consultancy support through Austrade's network of international offices
Who Should Use This
- Australian small and medium businesses that have begun or plan to begin exporting goods or services
- Technology companies, manufacturers, agribusinesses, and professional service firms targeting international markets
- Creative sector businesses including film, design, education, and cultural export enterprises
- Companies wanting to attend international trade shows or conduct overseas market research
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Register with Austrade and create an EMDG application account at austrade.gov.au/emdg
- Step 2: Determine your tier eligibility based on your export experience and revenue
- Step 3: Keep records of all eligible export promotion expenses during the grant year
- Step 4: Submit your EMDG application after the end of the grant year (July 1 - June 30 Australian financial year)
- Step 5: Austrade processes claims and reimburses eligible expenses at the applicable rate
Things to Check Before Applying
- EMDG reimburses expenses after they are incurred - it is not paid in advance
- Businesses must apply through a registered EMDG service provider (export grant consultant) for certain tiers
- EMDG has strict eligible expense categories - not all export-related costs qualify
- There is a minimum eligible expense threshold before reimbursement applies
- EMDG program rules have changed significantly in recent years - check current Austrade guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I get from EMDG?
Depending on your tier: Tier 1 up to $40,000, Tier 2 up to $80,000, Tier 3 up to $150,000 per year in reimbursement of eligible export promotion expenses.
What expenses are eligible for EMDG?
Eligible expenses include overseas travel for business development, international trade show attendance fees, marketing materials for overseas markets, foreign language content, and international advertising.
Is EMDG available for service exporters?
Yes. EMDG covers services, digital products, IP licensing, tourism, education, and goods exporters.
Do I need an EMDG consultant?
For Tier 2 and Tier 3, applications must be lodged through registered service providers. For Tier 1, businesses can apply directly.
When do I apply for EMDG?
EMDG applications are submitted after the end of the Australian financial year (June 30) for expenses incurred during that year. Check Austrade for the specific application window.
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