UKTI has launched its new five-year strategy, which introduces the TAP scheme, replacing the SESA funding scheme. Initially, only 'new to market' and 'new to export' companies were only eligible for grant support (the definitions of 'new to market' and 'new to export' being unchanged from those you may previously have seen.) However, recognising that new exporters would be unlikely to export to some of the more difficult markets, the EIA has lobbied long and hard for the assistance to be extended. As a result, grant support will now be given to experienced SME exporters i.e those who are above the 'new to export' threshold, to take part in exhibitions in the following countries and territories provided they are new to the markets involved.

Eligible businesses will be subject to the lifetime limit of three grants counted from the 1st April 2006.