Whether you are an experienced exporter looking to further develop your business in other overseas markets, a novice exporter or a company that has never traded overseas before, we are here to help.

Through the Growing International Business in Merseyside Programme, we can give you access to the know-how on anything you need in terms of international trade. We can introduce you to new initiatives, help develop your ideas, guide you through the maze of available financial support and give you straightforward, honest advice to help you sharpen your competitive edge.

What is the Growing International Business in Merseyside Programme?

It is a suite of services specially developed to support your business in improving your international trade capability and includes:

• The “Do-It!” (Developing Overseas International Trade) Programme, a new initiative developed for the more experienced exporter. Through this programme we can offer up to 50% funding support for eligible Merseysidebased companies. A maximum of £4000 is available over a 12-month period against an agreed action plan.
• The Americas Programme, providing assistance for companies wishing to take up opportunities in the USA, Canada and Latin America.
• The China Market Programme, assisting companies wishing to develop a foothold in the Chinese market.
• Access to a group of 25 International Trade Advisors through the International Trade Centre, which acts as the Merseyside office for UK Trade and Investment support services.

For further information on each of the programmes call and speak with one of our Advisors.

Unsure which programme is for you?

Don’t worry – our team of Advisors will be on hand to guide you in the right direction. No matter what shape you think you are in, it’s always healthy to take a step back and look at your business from a different perspective.

Together with your dedicated advisor, a business review will be prepared detailing how your business is currently positioned with regard to international trade, and an action plan produced outlining where you would like it to be and the steps required to get there. This action plan will determine which programme is best suited to your business needs.

What can the programme help me to achieve?

Whether you are already selling overseas, looking to do so or don’t know where to start, we can help you get moving internationally with a range of activities, including:

• How to sell internationally – learn how to find opportunities overseas, how business is done, how markets are structured and how to access those all-important contacts overseas.
• Skills development – increase your knowledge of export procedures and best practice.
• Market research – pinpoint opportunities, find business partners overseas, consider potential barriers to entry, address legal and technical requirements, and minimise risk by gaining a thorough understanding of target markets.
• Enhancing success in overseas trade market visits – preparatory work to get the best results before travelling to the overseas market, and access to an extensive and varied calendar of trade missions covering different geographical areas and sectors.
• Language needs - help you access appropriate interpreting, translation and cultural awareness development services.

• Specialist market information and assistance – for major market areas such as China and the Americas.

How is the programme delivered?

Through the partners we have on the ground locally, nationally and internationally, we can help you in your efforts to grow your international business. Most of the services you will use are heavily subsidised using European or UK government funding, in some cases by as much as 50%*

* terms and conditions apply

How do I get involved?

If you are interested in the Growing International Business in Merseyside Programme, please contact The International Trade Centre on 0151 227 1234.