SCDI - USA Trade Visit, Chicago and New York, 9-14 April 2012
Published by Anne Marie Hughes on Sat 09 Jun 12 @ 22:14
Why America?
The USA is recognised as having the world's largest and most influential economy. America has an internationally renowned reputation as the leading industrial power with a highly diversified and technologically advanced economy.
The UK and USA have always had a close trading relationship. The US is the UK's fifth largest trading partner and the UK is the largest foreign investor in America. Furthermore, the US is the UK's top export destination for goods reaching $112 billion in 2008 and $110 billion for trading services.
President Barak Obama has focused on increasing international trade as a means to achieve stability and economic growth for America. With a likeminded goal of increasing their exports within the next five years the USA is a great market for Scottish companies looking to internationalise their business.
Chicago
The city of Chicago has been described as an economic powerhouse and the 4th most important business centre of the world. Having the 2nd largest business district in the US, Chicago is regarded as one of the world's major financial centres. Overall trade surpassed $160 billion in 2010 and Chicago's international imports where estimates at $125.6 billion in 2010. Chicago's diversified economy makes it home to over 400 major corporate headquarters. Chicago's key sectors include business and financial services, IT, manufacturing, biotech & infotech sectors and transportation. This presents a great opportunity for Scottish companies looking to export in these markets.
New York
New York has the biggest economy in the US and the 2nd largest city economy in the world after Tokyo. If New York was a nation its economy would rank 16th largest in the world. Although America has damaged by the recession New York lost fewer jobs than any other state and gained more in the recovery, demonstrating resilience and strength in the tough economic climate. Key sectors include financial services, construction, manufacturing, business & professional services and educational services.
Financial assistance
Grants of £550 are available for SMEs that are new exporters to this market, to companies that have no previous exports to the market within 12 months, to companies whose turnover from exports is less than 25% of total turnover, and who do not have existing representation in the market. This funding is provided by Glasgow City Council. Please note we are unable to confirm places or eligibility for the financial assistance until a few days after the cut- off date.
All companies will be asked to complete a short post-visit questionnaire.
Appointment making
Should you require assistance with bespoke research into the opportunities for your product in this market or with arranging a programme of calls/meetings while in the America, please contact us.
Travel and accommodation
We recommend that you organise your own flights to New York and Chicago. SCDI will inform you what flights their representative will be taking.
SCDI will co-ordinate hotel accommodation and provide details of the hotel, and group rate once application forms have been process and approved.
To benefit from the group networking activities and business networking it is strongly advised that you stay at the group hotels.
How to apply
Please email Siobhan.hazlett@scdi.org.uk or call 0141 222 9724 requesting an application form. There is no administration charge for participating on this mission.
The closing date for applying for the visit is Friday 3rd of February 2012.
Late applications may be accepted but will not qualify for the grant of £550 or commercial assistance.
More Information
- http://www.ukti.gov.uk/pt_pt/export/countries/americas/northamerica/unitedstates/item/106508.html
- www.usa.gov/Business/Business_Gateway.shtml
- www.oecd.org/country/0,3377,en_33873108_33873886_1_1_1_1_1,00.html
