Contact: Jo-ell Carson, Communications Director, at 608-443-1952 or 608-213-1799
New Partnership Will Strengthen Business Connections to International Markets
MADISON – A new partnership was announced today by the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce and Madison International Trade Association (MITA) to help businesses grow by selling their products and services internationally. The two organizations will collaborate on a program series titled, “Going Global,” which will explore why companies should expand their customer base in foreign markets and discuss how companies of different types and sizes have found success.
“Ninety-five percent of the world’s population lives outside the United States,” said Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce President Zach Brandon. “This is why you see so many small-to medium-sized businesses strategically pursuing opportunities to sell internationally.”
On average, companies that export grow faster and create more jobs at higher wages than non-exporting companies. In 2012, Madison-area businesses exported $2.2 billion worth of products around the world.
MITA Board President Jen Pino-Gallagher encouraged businesses of all sizes to attend the collaborative series, noting the access to insight, connections and resources that will be provided. “International business is big business in Madison,” Pino-Gallagher said. “If your business is not active in global markets, you may be missing some very large and profitable opportunities. In my opinion, the Going Global series is an easy opportunity to learn more about the potential that global sales may hold for your company.”
Brandon acknowledged that for many small businesses, the thought of conducting business in foreign markets can appear daunting at first. “There are many real challenges – you need to understand the market, the culture, the regulatory climate and establish personal relationships,” Brandon said. “Our message to Madison-area businesses is you can do this and we want to help. Together, if we think global, we will grow local.”
The first program in the “Going Global” series takes place on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 7:30-9:00 a.m. at CUNA Mutual Group. The program is free for members of either the Greater Madison Chamber or MITA, and $20 for non-members. Individuals can register at www.greatermadisonchamber.com.
About the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business with nearly 1,400 organizations – ranging from one-person shops to corporations with more than 6,000 employees – working to bring the Greater Madison area to its full potential. The Greater Madison region is a leader in innovation. From cutting-edge technologies to distinctive retail shops to inventive services and products, Madison businesses vary greatly but are united by the region’s entrepreneurial spirit. More information can be found at www.greatermadisonchamber.com.
About the Madison International Trade Association:
MITA is a Madison, Wisconsin-based organization with the simple goal to connect and provide global know-how and resources to its members. MITA provides current, relevant and vital global and international trade information to the organizations and individuals looking to expand their international reach. From trade agreements to export documentation to economic trends and prevailing world issues, MITA keeps its members “in the know.” MITA members include a broad spectrum of professionals interested in and involved with international trade. Member companies include manufacturers, food companies, and services providers such as freight forwarders, banks, and law firms, as well as universities and governmental institutions. More information can be found at: http://mitatrade.org/.
