Free Ready, Set, Export seminars scheduled

In an increasingly competitive global economy, exporting is a strategic tool for a business to grow their customer base and add value. Did you know that small and medium-sized firms make up 90 percent of Kentucky’s exporters and that most of these companies have fewer than 20 employees? Studies show that exporting companies grow twice as fast and are able to pay higher wages than those that don’t export. Fifteen percent of Kentucky’s manufacturing jobs are supported by exports.

The Kentucky Export Initiative, a Chamber-supported initiative designed to increase exporting activity among small and medium-sized businesses, will hold free exporting seminars across the state. The program will leverage the existing efforts of Kentucky’s international trade organizations, as well as create new opportunities for education and market exploration.

Informational seminars covering the financial, legal and logistical concerns of exporting will be offered in Owensboro, Louisville, Fort Mitchell, Bowling Green, Paducah and Elizabethtown between September and December, 2011.  Additional information, including registration and seminar dates, can be found at www.kyexports.com. There is no cost to participate, but space is limited and registration is required.

The Kentucky Export Initiative is composed of six alliance members in addition to the Chamber, including the Cabinet for Economic Development, Kentucky World Trade Center, U.S. Department of Commerce, Kentucky Association of Manufacturers, Northern Kentucky International Trade Association and the U.S. Chamber’s TradeRoots program.