Calling on New-to-Market and New-to-Export Businesses to Explore and Engage in Global Expansion Opportunities

Los Angeles, CA, March 15, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Fact: Only 15% of companies in the United States export.

Santa Monica College Small Business Development Center asked International Trade Expert, Elizabeth Glynn to make sense of this statistic, and explain what businesses can do to expand into emerging foreign markets. Glynn offers further insight to these figures, “95% of all consumers live outside of the U.S., and observations of current exporting efforts find that only 57% focus on two markets, typically Canada and Mexico.” Glynn adds, “These numbers demonstrate that small businesses can bridge a gap in their revenues and achieve additional growth by exploring global opportunities. Success in the global marketplace is possible when businesses create a viable and sound business structure that is backed by strong market research, financing, seamless delivery of their products, and good execution.”

The “Made in the USA” label provides companies with a competitive advantage internationally. Glynn validates that “‘Made in USA’ brands are perceived by consumers to be of higher quality, and consequently can be correlated with a higher price point for U.S- made products sold internationally.”

Multiple business sectors, including food products, cosmetics, manufacturing, aerospace, medical devices & equipment, security & safety, environmental, architecture & engineering, are favorable for global expansion.

Federal and State funded resources are available to provide business owners a variety of tools to position their products favorably into the right international markets.

Glynn lists her top four most valuable online resources to share with clients:

U.S. government portal for elements related to export: www.export.gov

Best Market Reports is a resource for identifying top export markets for the company’s products: www.elcaminocitd.org/trade-toolbox/bmr

The SBA Export Business Planner is a downloadable resource that business owners can utilize as they develop export business strategies: http://www.sba.gov/exportbusinessplanner

Small Business Development Centers offer individualized consulting and training to new and growing businesses: www.smcsbdc.org

Elizabeth Glynn facilitates an Export Networking Roundtable for small- and medium-sized businesses in the Los Angeles area. Glynn’s next event is scheduled on March 29th at the LA Chamber in partnership with the Santa Monica College Small Business Development Center. Additionally, she provides training on topics including “Is an Export/Import Business for me?” and “Creating your Export Roadmap.” To find and gain more information on future export-focused training opportunities, including “Export Financing to Grow Your Business,” visit www.smcsbdc.org.

Santa Monica College, Small Business Development Center provides individualized consulting and training to new and growing businesses.