Resources (SBDC)
Begin Exporting
The U.S. Small Business Administration and its resource partners, the SBDC network, can play a significant role in helping you develop export potential and providing information on the many government services to help you succeed.
www.export.gov
- A new button on the home page – Begin Exporting – directs you to an easy-to-follow six-step process.
- The first step is a self-assessment. Depending on the assessment score, small businesses are referred to specific training and counseling programs in Step 2. Steps 3-6 include: Create an Export Business Plan; Conduct Market Research; Find Buyers; and Investigate Financing Your Small Business Exports, Foreign Investments or Projects. For assessment scores in the 0-20 range, small businesses are directed to a link to SCORE’s online international trade counselors. Scores in the 30-80 range (more prepared/ready businesses) are provided a link to the State Lead Small Business Development Centers. Businesses scoring above 80 are directed to a Commerce Department Commercial Service trade specialist.