New Program Takes Mystery Out Of International Trade

World Trade Center, University Of Missouri-St. Louis Team Up To Help
Businesses Succeed In International Markets

International trade is no longer the exclusive province of the Fortune 500. It has become an ingredient for small-business success, and even a key to survival. With small firms attempting to grow and outpace stubborn competition, many are looking to foreign markets for help.

While many companies recognize the potential of the global marketplace, the idea of taking it on can be a daunting experience. Many small firms are jumping into the international arena without knowledge and tools to succeed.

A new workforce development program offered by World Trade Center Saint Louis and the Center For International Studies at the University of Missouri-St. Louis provides a foundation to help businesses and their employees prepare for international sales. The 45-hour program, known as the Chancellor’s Certificate in International Trade, covers such trade basics as introduction to international trade, international business plans, contracts, negotiations, transactions and ocean and air transportation. The courses are taught by experienced international trade experts.

“There is a fear of international trade for many small companies,” said Cheryl Marty, deputy director of World Trade Center Saint Louis. “If a company lacks experience in international trade, it can make some costly mistakes the first time out. When that happens, these companies become reluctant to ever try international sales again. This program will take the mystery out of international trade for small business. Before the program, there was a lack of a hands-on program when it came to international sales. We’ll teach them about developing a plan and understanding other cultures.”

Marty said the program is ideal for a small firm that is receiving inquiries from foreign nations. “Small companies get inquiries from other countries, but they usually don’t know where to start. This program will help these firms understand the basics of international trade. If you are a small business, we want to help you make the jump and make it work.”

Unlike a college degree program that may take years to complete, the Chancellor’s Certificate in International Trade can be completed in one year. Business owners and/or employees are encouraged to participate in the program.

Although the courses offer basics in international trade, specific regions are also highlighted. For example, cross-cultural communications courses are available for China, Mexico and Russia.

“This workforce development program will provide educational tools and professional insights so people representing their companies internationally are equipped to work successfully in local business environments and with local cultures,” said Tom Bottini, partner with the law firm of Armstrong Teasdale LLP and a member of the board of advisors of World Trade Center Saint Louis.

With record trade deficits, Marty and the World Trade Center view the program as a great way to help businesses get involved internationally.

“We see this as a workforce development program,” she said. “More small companies need to get involved in the exporting business. There is so much opportunity for international sales. We are helping small companies get the information they need so they can make better decisions and improve their chances for success.”

For the entire 45-hour curriculum, tuition is $900 for World Trade Center clients and University of Missouri-St. Louis alumni and students and $1,125 for non-clients. However, you may enroll for individual classes to gain specialized knowledge. Each class ranges in price from $90-$210.

The program is sponsored by FedEx. Co-sponsors include: Missouri District Export Council, Small Business Administration, State of Missouri Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Commercial Service. The program is held in cooperation with: Armstrong Teasdale LLP, Aziotics, LLC, Everything’s Possible LLC, National City Bank and Russian Language Communications.

For more information, please call 314-615-8141 or visit www.worldtradecenter-stl.com.