International
We want to help Greater Mankato businesses succeed. One way we do this is by bringing you information about resources and services and helping make the connections to help your business prosper.
In 2011, Greater Mankato Growth brought the US Commercial Service to Mankato to hold a session on how to begin, build or enhance your business’ international trade presence. Download the presentation "The World is Open for your Business" from the session.
Below is a list of various resources your business can access to help open doors to enhance your business’ international trade experience.
Financial Assistance Available
Businesses May Qualify for International Trade Reimbursment
First-time exporters or businesses currently doing business overseas but interested in expanding into new international markets may qualify for reimbursement of up to $500 for export-training or up to $7,500 for approved export-development activities through the STEP Export Assistance for Small Business program.
Upcoming deadline is February 14. For eligibility requirements and application forms, visit: www.positivelyminnesota.com/step
Highlighted Upcoming Events
Visit Minnesota Trade Office Events Calendar for more upcoming events.
Trade Missions
Businesses are invited to travel with the Minnesota Trade Office and other Minnesota representatives to explore unique international opportunities designed to develop or increase business interactions and to acquire key contacts overseas. Check the Minnesota Trade Office event page regularly to ensure you don't miss an opportunity to expand into international markets.
Businesses may qualify for substantial trade mission assistance through the SBA STEP Grant Program administered by the Minnesota Trade Office. Check the appropriate box on the Mission Application to be considered for STEP funding.
Resources
U.S. Commercial Service
The U.S. Commercial Service is the trade promotion arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. Their global network of trade professionals connects U.S. companies with international buyers, providing them with market intelligence, trade counseling, business match-making and advocacy/commercial diplomacy support.
International Trade Specialist
The U.S. Commercial Service’s International Trade Specialist for our region is Andrea Staebler Berton. Ms. Berton welcomes the opportunity to meet individually with your business to discuss how the service can be a resource to you. (email | 612.348.1639)
Minnesota Trade Office (MTO)
State Trade and Export Promotion Program (STEP) - Small businesses statewide may be eligible for financial incentives and technical assistance under a new state export initiative focused on helping companies increase sales in foreign markets and spur job growth in Minnesota.
The MTO’s international business unit helps companies obtain the information, skills, resources and contacts they need to successfully export goods and services worldwide. Click here to see their calendar of upcoming seminars, conferences and roundtables.
District Export Councils (DECs)
Leaders from the local business community, appointed by U.S. Secretaries of Commerce, provide professional advice on international business to local firms. For many more links and information on DEC’s quarterly International Networking Events, go to exportassistance.com
Country Commercial Guides (CCG)
These reports, prepared annually by U.S. Embassy staff, contain information on the business and economic situation of foreign countries and the political climate as it affects U.S. business and investments. Go to the US Commercial Service’s website at export.gov and use Search site term “Country Commercial Guide” and the country you’re searching for.
EIU provides a constant flow of analysis and forecasts on more than 200 countries and six key industries to help executives make informed business decisions.
Works to improve foreign market access for U.S. products, build new markets and improve the competitive position of U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace.
Source for global business opportunity leads and market/country resources.
Up to $75,000 through a U.S. Department of Commerce program, designed for manufacturers adversely affected by imports. Specific requirements to qualify are a decrease in sales and employment, increase in competitive imports, and customer business lost to foreign competition.