in business ownership between men and women is even greater among exporting businesses. (7) According to research conducted by the Small Business Administration, smaller firms tend to produce fewer outputs and are less likely to export than larger firms. Data of the Bureau of the Census show that women-owned firms employ 33 percent fewer workers on average than male-owned firms and are less likely to enjoy the benefits of international trade. (8) Exporting is a highly effective way for businesses to expand their markets and increase their productivity. As States expand export-enhancing activities through STEP, additional small firms will benefit from the higher demand for their goods and services and increased profits associated with international trade. (9) During the first 10 years of operation, STEP enabled more than 12,000 small business concerns to explore export opportunities, helping them reach markets in 141 countries. (10) Congress recognizes that STEP can be improved to reduce the administrative burden for grantees, streamline reporting and compliance requirements, give grantees more flexibility, make grant awards more transparent and consistent, and set more predictable application deadlines. (11) Congress also recognizes that making awards under STEP more consistent and transparent will simplify the program and incentivize more States to participate so that small business concerns are supported in all States. 3. Streamlining application, reporting, and compliance requirements (a) Requirement for funding information To be kept current Section 22(l)(3) of the Small Business Act ( 15 U.S.C. 649(l)(3) ) is amended by adding at the end the following: (E) Requirement for funding information To be kept current The Associate Administrator shall— (i) maintain on the website of the Administration a publicly accessible list of links to documents containing the most up-to-date information about program requirements and application procedures, including the latest notice of funding opportunity, all active