Around this time last year, I was writing about the recent passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and discussed resources for international trade for our local businesses. It may seem odd to revisit this topic in the midst of a global pandemic where international travel is severely limited. However, farmers plan their garden in the winter when the ground is hard and cold. So, this season could be a time to explore extending your business presence beyond the U.S. borders. Fun fact, according to the IL Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (ILDCEO), Illinois is the largest exporting state in the Midwest and the 5th largest in the U.S.
Below are a few resources to support your exploration of international markets:
- International Trade Association of Greater Chicago (ITAGC): www.itagc.org
The NACC has enjoyed a partnership with this organization for years. Richard Paullin, the Executive Director of ITAGC, is a wealth of information and they offer very reasonably priced webinars on international trade related topics. - Illinois Office of Trade & Investment, a division of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity: www2.illinois.gov/dceo/AboutDCEO/Pages/TradeInvestment.aspx
This department offers many resources and grant opportunities. - College of DuPage Illinois International Trade Center: www.cod.edu/business-development-center/itc/index.aspx
Located in our own backyard, they can help with export readiness assessment, international market research tools, funding opportunities, etc. - NACC Certificates of Origin: www.naperville.net/your-resource/certificates-of-origin/
The NACC offers Certificates of Origin for area businesses who trade in countries requiring certification of U.S. origin of the products shipped internationally. From your desk, you can submit documentation and receive an “e-cert” – recognized around the globe – that your goods were produced in the U.S.
The NACC is offering a complimentary International Trade Resources for Beginners program at 1PM on Tues., Feb. 23 You can register and find out more information at www.tinyurl.com/nacc-international-trade.
I am constantly amazed at companies, small and large, in the Naperville area that have secured international markets.
Please reach out to us if you have questions about expanding your markets globally. I can be reached at (630) 544-3387 or by email at rosborne@naperville.net.
