Studies demonstrate that companies with a significant international portfolio grow faster, are more profitable and are less susceptible to domestic downturns. Many Florida businesses have taken that lesson to heart. Recent statistics indicate that our state is home to more than 42,000 exporters, the second highest number in the United States. In 2008, Florida companies exported more than $54 billion worth of goods - making it the fifth largest exporting state in the country - and over $30 billion worth of services were sold to companies in over 200 countries around the world.
International trade is big business and an economic engine for many Florida companies. Are you one of them? Would you like to be? If so, the State of Florida has several valuable resources available.
To help our companies connect with buyers worldwide, Enterprise Florida has established the online Florida Export Directory. This new site provides a means for Florida exporters to gain international market exposure free-of-charge through a searchable, web-based directory. An aggressive advertising, public relations and trade show promotional campaign is planned to promote the Florida Export Directory to foreign buyers interested in sales, agent/distributorships, licensing/franchise agreements and joint venture opportunities.
Metro Orlando companies interested in expanding their business into markets worldwide are encouraged to take advantage of this free promotional tool. Go get started, go to www.FloridaExportDirectory.com. First check to see if your company is already listed. If not, click the "Register" button to begin the registration process.
Enterprise Florida has also launched a new trade promotion initiative - the Target Sector Trade Event Grants program - designed to help companies showcase their products through U.S. Certified trade exhibitions and select Florida trade shows in key markets worldwide. Through this program, eligible small companies (500 or less employees) can qualify for event-specific grants that will enable them to participate in major international product exhibitions worldwide, opening up opportunities which they otherwise might not be able to afford. Particular emphasis is given to companies in the following sectors: Aviation & Aerospace, Clean Energy, Financial & Professional Services, Homeland Security & Defense, Information Technology, Life Sciences, Boating/Marine Industry, and other targeted manufacturing sectors.
Applicants must be nominated - and approved - by their local economic development organization, so you can begin the process by contacting the Metro Orlando EDC's international business development team, Irma.Stenman@OrlandoEDC.com.
Expanding into international markets can be vital to the success of a company's growth strategy, particularly during difficult economic times. We encourage you to explore the potential of these valuable resources.
