Free Export Programs, Digital Tools and Grants to Help Your Business Grow Internationally (Presented by the MEDC)

Enable your company to expand or initiate international sales during one of the most challenging times in our business community. You will gain a better understanding of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's (MEDC) export assistance programs, as well as an example of one of their key services.  

This webinar will offer resources for SMEs (small and medium size enterprises) that have a product or service competitive in foreign markets or looking to explore new export opportunities, as well as shed light on ways to overcome international trade challenges. Companies will also gain knowledge on how to utilize foreign social media and having websites localized for their target audience (countries). 

MEDC International Trade Website
IBT Online International Trade Infographic Resources

Presenters:

David Newhouse, International Trade Development Manager, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
With over twenty-five years of international trade experience in private industry, David draws upon his expertise and MEDC’s many export assistance programs to help small and medium-sized enterprises extend their global reach.  The centerpiece program showcased to export-minded companies is the Michigan State Trade Expansion Program grant. Prior to joining MEDC, David served as President of InterClean Equipment, a specialized wash equipment manufacturer for large vehicle applications, serving the mining, oil, rail, defense, public transit and trucking industries. He navigated the company through the depths of the Great Recession to record sales and profits by focusing on exporting, which comprised over 50% of the company’s business.  It was then that David learned of and benefitted from MEDC’s and U.S. Commercial Service international assistance programs.  In 2014, he came out of early retirement to join MEDC’s International Trade group. David also spent twenty-four years with General Motors in a variety of international strategic planning roles, including managing global cross-functional teams in advanced vehicle development.  His foreign assignments included Argentina, where he helped GM reestablish its operations and manufacturing footprint, and Switzerland, where he was involved in Strategic Planning at GM’s then European headquarters.

Andrew Lawlor, Online Business Development Manager, IBT Online
As the Michigan representative for the Business Development Manager role, I ensure the growth of Michigan exporters, through the help of the MEDC, and the team behind IBT Online.
My experience ranges, from University studies at Western Michigan University, with a focus in Digital Marketing and Sales, and coming from a diverse background where I am highly invested in Latin American culture and way of life. Also, using my sports-driven background to build my competitive mindset for a successful future. Since 2002, IBT Online has successfully helped hundreds of companies to expand globally. Our Online Global programs (website localization, international online marketing and website management) give your targeted international audiences the local user experience that grows your exports, sales, brand and business globally.