Virginia Economic Development Partnership

V I R G I N I A E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T PA R T N E R S H I P

your business can

GO INTERNATIONAL with VIRGINIA ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP

I N T E R N AT I O N A L T R A D E

VEDP loves going international.

WE PREFER TO DRIVE ON VIRGINIA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP IS YOUR BUSINESS GUIDE ABROAD. If you’re ready to take your business in a new direction, Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is here to help. Our experienced experts in international trade show you how to increase sales, save time and minimize risks with their vast store of in-depth understanding of international markets.

From international sales programs to market research to insightful information from valued partners, we assist both new and experienced exporters as they enter new international markets. Plus, we help you identify new markets, develop market entry strategies and locate possible distributors and representatives for products or services — all at little to no cost.

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD. WE GENERATE INTERNATIONAL SALES FOR YOUR COMPANY.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE MANAGERS

7 trade managers

located in virginia

55+

« We were approached by a potential international client at the High Point furniture market. After research by VEDP, the address and other information that they provided proved to be inaccurate and not a legitimate place of business. This helped prevent a potential relationship with a company that appears not to be what they say they are. Thanks! » BDI, Chantilly

« The VEDP was fantastic and personalized the entire experience, giving me just the amount of support that I needed. I highly recommend that other companies work with the VEDP in the future and go on a trade mission — it really is the fastest way to successfully enter a new market! » 24 HOUR COMPANY, Falls Church

5

international consultants across the globe program managers

VEDP loves pulling out the passport.

BUSINESS WORKS DIFFER WHAT WORKS ABROAD? WHAT DOESN’T? WE HAVE THE EXPERTISE YOU NEED. A firm handshake in one country may mean something entirely different in another. And you don’t want to get it wrong. Discover the right way to conduct business in other countries with over 55 global network consultants. We’ll give you the inside scoop, so you know exactly how to proceed.

Our experts live and work in the country you are interested in entering. They provide you with valuable market research specific to your product or service. They compile background information and identify potential distributors based on qualifiers you provide.

VEDP arranges match-making appointments with key potential distributors and customers.

ENTLY IN OTHER COUNTRIES.

GLOBAL NETWORK ›› market intelligence

GET REAL INSIGHT INTO INTERNATIONAL MARKETS FROM OUR GLOBAL GROUND TEAM.

›› regulatory information

« We wanted to fully understand the customer’s organization and with the

›› match-making appointments

report provided by VEDP consultants, we have entered the Indian market with proper understanding and knowledge. We rely on VEDP’s expertise and local connections extensively. » L-3 COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION, Chantilly

« The assistance in developing a qualified list of potential commercial fitness equipment dealers in the Philippines saved us time and money. After one of many interviews, we found the right candidate. Thank you! » MED-FIT SYSTEMS, Independence

« A few months ago, we were interested in pursuing marketing channels for China. We contacted VEDP and asked for assistance in gathering facts about the best approach. The VEDP consultant in China provided in-depth information quickly to aid us in our analysis. » SYNTRONICS, Fredericksburg

›› due diligence ›› marketing opportunities ›› shipping regulations

VEDP loves exchanging currency.

IT PAYS (IN SALES) THE PROGRAM THAT GRANTS $15,000 AND INCREASES INTERNATIONAL SALES BY 54% ON AVERAGE. Looking for the fast-track to international sales? Consider joining our Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. Our awardwinning international sales program helps companies grow their international business.

Each year, 25 qualifying companies are accepted into this intensive two-year international business acceleration program. With a $15,000 grant, resources from private sector experts in international business, and guidance from VEDP, companies graduate with a 54% increase in international sales during the two-year program.

TO GO FIRST CLASS. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A PROFITABLE MIX OF RESOURCES AND EXPERT SERVICES WITH THE VALET PROGRAM. « Inorganic Ventures is appreciative of the contacts made during our time in the VALET program. Our company found it interesting to see some companies much larger than us experiencing similar international business issues. We were able to get new ideas and inspiration as a result of our participation in VALET. » INORGANIC VENTURES, Christiansburg

« Afton Scientific was quite advanced in EU market development.

However, the Japan market was our next target. The support by VALET in arranging customer meetings, coordinating communications, and advising on strategy has helped get Afton off to a great start. » AFTON SCIENTIFIC, Charlottesville

VALET PROGRAM

145+ graduates

50

current companies

27

private sector partners

2

national awards

VEDP loves life in a suitcase.

THE BEST PART OF TRAVEL MEET INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CONTACTS FACE-TO-FACE. A trade mission with VEDP lets you and your business get up close and personal with potential customers and partners overseas. It’s a great way to see what’s happening “over there” and find out how you can increase sales by selling internationally.

VEDP facilitates every step of travel, from business meetings to language assistance to networking events. Our experts make connections for you through various contacts so that you get the most out of your visit. Plus, the fast-track itinerary saves you time and money.

Trade missions and individual market visits enable businesses from Virginia to do what is most important in selling internationally… build relationships.

IS MIXING WITH THE LOCALS.

TRADE MISSIONS ›› buyers

GET INSIDER HELP IDENTIFYING CUSTOMERS, DISTRIBUTORS, AND PARTNERS.

›› strategic partners

« This trip allowed us to meet with target companies in Costa Rica. We received

›› distributors

important information regarding business perspectives that are culturally unique.

We even received advice as to where we should locate within the country. » POLYMER SOLUTIONS, INC., Blacksburg

« While in the country we were able to learn a great deal about the business climate, the potential for our product, identify key contacts, one of which we will likely establish as an in-country representative. Market growth indicates we can potentially achieve a much higher product to market ratio in Brazil. » WR SYSTEMS, Norfolk

« We were provided with key contacts to help break into an organization that is VERY difficult to get into, the World Health Organization.

It literally doubled the value of our trip to Switzerland » ALLIANCE BIOSCIENCES, Richmond

›› government tenders ›› resellers

VEDP loves to bring it all back to Virginia.

THINK OF US AS YOUR GBPS—

GLOBAL BUSINESS POSITIONING SYSTEM. Virginia Economic Development Partnership is your guide to international trade.

Our track record of increasing sales through international business is proven. Let us help your business break through borders and bring profits home.

If you’re ready to get on the road with international business, contact VEDP today.

We’ll take you in the direction that saves you time, reduces costs, and minimizes risks while getting the most for your business.

« Most government help never quite comes up to expectations, but the Commonwealth of Virginia, through VEDP, is very dedicated to helping Virginia companies increase their export business. » GALA INDUSTRIES ASIA LTD, Eagle Rock

« There’s no way we could have pursued international sales without participation in VEDP’s VALET program — it’s the cornerstone of what we’re doing. » PARAMOUNT INDUSTRIAL COS., INC., Norfolk

TO POSITION YOUR COMPANY FOR INTERNATIONAL GROWTH, CONTACT VEDP’S INTERNATIONAL TRADE MANAGERS: NORTHERN:

John Elink-Schuurman JElink-Schuurman@yesvirginia.org 703.506.1031 Michael Howley MHowley@yesvirginia.org 703.506.1030

SOUTHWEST:

Diane Thomas DThomas@yesvirginia.org 276.623.1536

CENTRAL:

NORTHWEST:

Monica Nichols MNichols@yesvirginia.org 804.545.5753

Caitlin Clark CClark@yesvirginia.org 540.213.0267

EASTERN:

SOUTH CENTRAL:

Jordan Watkins JAWatkins@yesvirginia.org 757.314.2129

Roger Porter RPorter@yesvirginia.org 540.772.3905

V I R G I N I A E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T PA R T N E R S H I P

I N T E R N AT I O N A L T R A D E

Virginia Economic Development Partnership International Trade 901 East Byrd Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219 USA