There are a number of excellent state and local trade assistance programs in our region to help you develop export sales.
Indiana Small Business Development Centers (Indiana SBDC) provides comprehensive business guidance on most business issues, including international trade, through it’s extensive network of small business service centers around the state. The SBDC’s Export Indiana Accelerator Program is a 12-week, no-cost, annual program offering Hoosier small businesses professional export guidance and research resources to create an executable, proactive Export Business Plan. This program is available to both new and existing exporters. Businesses leave the program with a strategic approach on where and how to best position their product in the world marketplace. To find your local SBDC click here.
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture, through its International Trade Department within ISDA is focused on helping companies explore opportunities for exporting their products around the world. In turn, this increases business revenue and produces more Indiana jobs. ISDA has programs and services specifically for exporters. These include exporter education, market entry, and maket promotion. ISDA also works closely with the Food Export Association of the Midwest.
Indiana State Trade and Export Promotion (IN-STEP) Program: IN-STEP aims to develop and expand export opportunities throughout the state, assisting Indiana small businesses with identifying, marketing and selling Hoosier-made goods in international markets. The IN-STEP grant program supports company growth and job creation by diversifying small businesses’ customer bases, offering eligible companies reimbursements of costs associated with export-related activities like participating in international trade missions, international and domestic trade shows, export training programs, website customization and globalization, export services provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce, as well as other trade development services. Total reimbursements under the IN-STEP grant program covers up to 80% of small businesses’ export expenses capped at $12,500. For additional information or questions please visit iedc.in.gov/in-step or contact Roger Howard, International Coordinator, Indiana Economic Development Corporation, at rhoward2@iedc.in.gov or 317-766-1416.
INDY CHAMBER – Global Indy: This program provides resources to regional companies who have never considered entering the world market or need a little help to get the ball rolling. It also provides a platform for international businesses to engage with key stakeholders and tap into a network of globally focused partners to grow and succeed. The Indy Chamber’s full suite of business services includes connections to export resources. To make an appointment for a one-on-one business coaching session, contact the Business Ownership Operations Coordinator at 317-464-2258.
Indiana University Center for International Business Education and Research (IU CIBER): The Kelley School of Business Institute for International Business (IIB) is home to one of the 15 Centers for International Business Education and Research in the country funded by grants from the U.S. Department of Education. It serves as a regional and national resource center for teaching, research and outreach in international business and related fields. Its mission is to promote U.S. capacity for international understanding and economic enterprise and increase the ability of U.S. business to prosper in the global economy through support of research, business education initiatives, and corporate outreach activities.
Purdue University Manufacturing Partnership (Purdue MEP): As advocates for Indiana’s manufacturers, Purdue MEP provides high-value, affordable, personalized consulting and training services that enable Indiana manufacturers to work smarter, compete domestically and globally, and prosper. We develop more effective business leaders, drive product and process innovation, promote company-wide operational excellence and foster creative strategies for business’ growth, workforce development, economic competitiveness, and greater profitability. Contact us today to learn how Purdue MEP provides affordable solutions for all manufacturing challenges, domestically and abroad.