Export Promotion Services To help companies explore market opportunities firsthand and meet potential distributors, partners, agents, and buyers, the MTO arranges numerous export promotional events annually. The MTO organizes trade missions, including the governor’s trade missions; provides exhibition opportunities at domestic and international trade shows; and arranges face-to-face meetings with potential foreign buyers. In addition to promotional events organized directly by the MTO, the trade office also can advise Minnesota companies of promotional events organized by other trade associations. Export Education and Training Services The MTO provides training seminars and workshops designed to provide companies the knowledge and tools necessary to be successful exporters. A complete listing of educational programs is posted at MTO, (click on Calendar of Events). Market Intelligence and Research Resources To ensure Minnesota companies have the very latest market intelligence at their disposal, the MTO works with the DEED library to maintain an extensive collection of information on foreign markets. Open to the public by appointment Monday through Friday (9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.) and staffed with professional researchers, the DEED library is replete with economic data, export statistics, international trade periodicals, company directories, a wide variety of electronic and internet-based market research tools, as well as materials to help companies learn the mechanics of exporting and the art of conducting business in other cultures. Companies also can access valuable research resources at MTO. To take advantage of the full range of MTO export assistance services, contact the MTO at the address and telephone number in the Resource Directory section of this Guide. STEP (State Trade and Export Promotion Program) Export Assistance for Small Business The STEP program provides financial and technical assistance to qualifying Minnesota small businesses with an active interest in exporting products or services to foreign markets. Participants may be first-time exporters or companies that are currently exporting but are interested in expanding into new international markets. Invest in Minnesota With staff in Minnesota and key international markets the Office of Foreign Direct Investment is available to help foreign companies explore the advantages of expanding in Minnesota.
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