Export Marketing Plans with the Florida SBDC at FGCU
Unlock Global Opportunities for Your Business
Florida’s strategic position as an international trade hub makes it a prime location for businesses looking to expand globally. With 14 deep-water seaports and 19 commercial airports, Florida ranks sixth nationally in total state-origin exports and third in “high-tech” exports. In 2023, U.S. exports reached a record $3.1 trillion, creating new opportunities for businesses to capture international market share.
The Florida SBDC at FGCU offers tailored Export Marketing Plans to help “new-to-export” manufacturers and service providers in Florida identify growth strategies and navigate the complexities of entering global markets. Our expert international trade consultants, certified as Global Business Professionals (CGBP) by NASBITE International, are here to guide you every step of the way.
Qualifications
- Florida manufacturers and professional services providers only
- Products/services must be produced/provided in the state of Florida
- Company’s products must be at least 51% U.S. content
- New-to-export or infrequent exporters preferred
- Minimum of two years in business
- Three or More full-time employees
- $250,000 to $10 million in annual sales
The Export Marketing Plan Process
- Submit Your Application: Complete an online application and provide essential business and financial information.
- Eligibility Verification: Once verified, the Florida SBDC at FGCU will contact you to schedule an initial consultation.
- Business Assessment: Our team will conduct a confidential, in-depth evaluation of your business to identify export potential and challenges.
- Customized Plan Delivery: Debbie Lanford, our international export specialist, will develop a comprehensive Export Marketing Plan, tailored specifically to your business needs. This plan will include market research, strategies, and recommendations for your global expansion.
Why Exporting Matters
2023 marked a record-breaking year for U.S. exports and imports. Here are some key highlights from the U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Annual Report:
Export Highlights:
- Goods & Services: U.S. exports reached an all-time high of $3.1 trillion in 2023, with services alone contributing $1 trillion.
- Top Export Categories: Capital goods ($601.2 billion), automotive vehicles and parts ($179 billion), and consumer goods ($260.4 billion).
- Country Success Stories: Record exports to 41 countries, including the Netherlands ($82.2 billion), Germany ($76.7 billion), and Belgium ($38.8 billion).
Import Highlights:
- Top Import Categories: Automotive vehicles and parts ($458.4 billion) and industrial supplies and materials ($475.6 billion) saw record imports in 2023.
- Global Trade Partnerships: Record imports from 41 countries, with Mexico ($475.6 billion), Germany ($159.7 billion), and South Korea ($116.2 billion) leading the way.
Notable Trends:
- The U.S. had a record services surplus of $288.2 billion in 2023, the highest since 2019.
- Real-dollar exports of goods and petroleum reached historic levels, underscoring strong demand for U.S. products worldwide.
Why Choose the Florida SBDC at FGCU?
In 2016, the Florida SBDC Network was awarded the President’s “E” Award for Export Service, the highest recognition a U.S. entity can receive for contributions to the expansion of United States exports. Presented by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker, the award recognizes the Florida SBDC’s sustained commitment to helping small businesses navigate the export process and enter international markets. The SBDC offers customized Export Marketing Plans (EMPs), prepared in partnership with Select Florida and the U.S. Commercial Service, providing businesses with market recommendations, trade opportunities, and actionable strategies. The award also acknowledges the Florida SBDC’s extensive pro bono work and its efforts to support U.S. export growth, which plays a vital role in creating jobs and strengthening the economy.
Our Export Marketing Plans provide Florida businesses with:
- Comprehensive market research and actionable strategies.
- A roadmap for navigating legal, logistical, and financial challenges of international trade.
- Expert insights from certified trade specialists with years of experience.
Start growing your business globally today! For more information or to apply, contact the Florida SBDC at FGCU and let us help you take advantage of Florida’s strategic position and unprecedented global opportunities.
Cost to Qualifying Companies
The cost for preparation of an Export Marketing Plan is $7,500. Qualifying companies are eligible for a $7,000 scholarship, substantially reducing the cost to your company to only $500.