You might be a small rural manufacturing or service provider with thoughts of expansion for the future. If you were wondering about potential customers in the US, but don’t know where to start, help is available.
The Ontario government offers a good starting point with their “New Exporters to Border States” (NEBS) program. This program provides a two day field trip to Buffalo intended to give a good overview of how goods and services move across today’s border. Key topics covered include dealing with border issues such as U.S. travel and immigration requirements, currency exchange, business planning, taxation and legal considerations and U.S. Customs clearance procedures along with a site visit to a warehousing facility and the Canadian Consulate General office. You will also be introduced to provincial and federal government export programs and services to assist your business. NEBS is organized by the International Trade Branch, Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Innovation, in co-operation with the Canadian Consulate in Buffalo. Please note that in order to participate; your company must have been in business for at least one year and have a manufacturing or service base in Ontario.
Planned trips are set for 2012 in May, September, November, and also February 2013. The cost is a $150 registration fee and your meals and accommodations.
For further information, contact Alison Lobb at Huron Small Business Enterprise Centre, alobb@huroncounty.ca .
