16 MiMfg Magazine August 2020
The most profitable products and
services require even higher degrees
of specialization by way of talent,
materials and equipment. Frequently,
the best of those things aren’t all
found in one country.
Schtokal reminds clients of Foster Swift and
those working with their regional District Export
Council that “there is no getting around it or trying
to ignore it – business is globally connected. That is
a good thing, both for our nation and for business
profitability. The most profitable products and services
require even higher degrees of specialization by way
of talent, materials and equipment. Frequently, the
best of those things aren’t all found in one country.”
What’s Next?
— Jean Schtokal, Foster Swift International
Trade Attorney and chair of the West
Michigan District Export Council
Even in difficult times, it is always the right time
for U.S. manufacturers to look at global trade and
exporting — it makes good business sense and is
good for our economy.
“Creating the connections manufacturers need to
move onto the world stage or solidify their current
footing is an essential step in raising Michigan’s
competitive advantage both at home and abroad,”
explained Walsh. “There are plenty of resources
located across Michigan and the experts your peers
work with every day are here for you as well.
Whether you are brand-new to international trade
or an old pro, now might be the best time to gain a
much-needed advantage overseas.”
For more information on growing your company’s
global footprint through trade and export, contact
MMA’s Brett Gerrish, at [email protected] or
517-487-8533, to locate more available resources. 6
Brett Gerrish is MMA’s communications
coordinator. He may be reached at
[email protected] or 517-487-8533.
Additional Resources
U.S. Department of Commerce
trade.gov or 248-975-9600
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade
Administration (ITA) works to improve the global business
environment and strengthens the competitiveness of
U.S. organizations competing at home and abroad. Its
global footprint consists of U.S. Commercial Service
(USCS) staff in domestically-based offices, including
three in Michigan (Detroit, Grand Rapids and Pontiac)
and Foreign Commercial Service Officers located
in U.S. Embassies and Consulates in more than 70
countries covering 95 percent of world GDP.
Through collaboration on global industry teams like
ITA’s Advanced Manufacturing Team, staff can provide
market intelligence, export counseling, business matchmaking
services, and assistance in addressing foreign
trade barriers and regulatory compliance issues.
In the current environment, ITA staff have shifted focus
to virtual service offerings and all companies can assess
global availability through a real-time status map. They
also organize webinars and events for U.S. exporters
in the manufacturing sector.
ITA is currently reducing or eliminating the costs of
several export services through 9/30/20 to provide
relief to U.S. businesses affected by COVID-19.
U.S. Small Business Administration
sba.gov
Access loan and financial assistance to compete globally
through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Its
export loan programs can provide working capital to
help finance foreign sales or for fixed assets.
U.S. Export-Import Bank
exim.gov
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM),
the official export credit agency of the United States,
can empower your business overseas and assist with
protection against foreign buyer nonpayment, offer
customers open account credit terms and support buyers
seeking to purchase U.S. capital goods and services.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation
michiganbusiness.org/export
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation
(MEDC) can help companies obtain personalized
assistance throughout every stage of the export process.
Through the International Trade program, your business
can get help entering or expanding into global markets
and connect to grant funding opportunities for eligible
export expenses.