Exporting offers small businesses a valuable opportunity to expand their reach beyond local markets, increasing revenue and diversifying their customer base. By tapping into international markets, these businesses can access new growth opportunities, mitigate risks, and enhance their competitiveness. Exporting also allows them to leverage their unique products or services on a global scale, creating long-term sustainability.
So, you own a small business and you’re thinking about exporting—where do you start? United States Export Assistance Centers (USEACs) and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are the perfect place to begin your journey.
What is a U.S. Export Assistance Center (USEAC)?
U.S. Export Assistance Centers (USEACs) help American businesses, of any size, who want to compete globally by exporting their products and services. These centers are located in different metropolitan areas across the United States and are staffed by international trade specialists from various government agencies including the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), the U.S. Commercial Service, and the Small Business Administration (SBA).
USEACs offer a variety of services that will help you succeed internationally no matter where you are in your exporting journey. Some of those services include:
- Market research: Providing detailed information about foreign markets to help businesses identify opportunities and understand market conditions.
- Business matchmaking: Connecting U.S. companies with potential foreign buyers, distributors, and partners.
- Trade counseling: Offering expert advice on export strategies, regulations, and compliance.
- Financing assistance: Helping businesses access export financing and insurance through programs like those offered by EXIM and the SBA.
- Training: Conducting seminars and workshops on various aspects of exporting, including logistics, documentation, and international marketing.
What is a Small Business Development Center (SBDC)?
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) offer guidance and training to small businesses and entrepreneurs at various stages of their development. They are a joint initiative of federal, local, and state governments along with some educational institutions.
SBDCs help small businesses through services that include:
- Business Planning: Assistance with creating and refining business plans.
- Financial Management: Guidance on budgeting, financial analysis, and securing funding.
- Marketing: Development of marketing strategies and sales techniques.
- Technical Assistance: Support with technology adoption and innovation.
- Export Assistance: Guidance for small businesses looking to expand into international markets.
- Workshops: Educational programs on various business topics.
- One-on-One Consulting: Personalized advice tailored to individual business needs.
Where is my local USEAC or SBDC?
- Use the U.S. Commercial Service’s local office lookup to find your closest export assistance center.
- Use SBA’s SBDC locator to find your closest development center.
EXIM can also help you with your exporting needs! Whether you're looking to protect your business from buyer non-payment or need to unlock cash flow, we've got you covered.
