As an increasing number of companies leverage online tools to expand international sales, MEDC’s trusted partners at IBT Online are available to make the internet work for you. Whether it’s implementing optimally localized websites or launching an international online marketing campaign, IBT Online helps your brand be understood and ready to do business within your target markets. When it comes to expanding to China, one of the world’s largest economies, IBT Online offers advice and resources for everything you need to do to launch your .cn China website.

The Clarkston-based ostomy and wound care company hoped to expand international sales by attending Arab Health, one of the world’s largest medical expositions. After connecting with their international trade manager, they tapped into MEDC’s MI-STEP financial assistance program to get them to market at a fraction of the cost. As a result of attending the 2021 exposition, the company reported export sales from a contract they’d been working on since 2020, resulting in a six-figure export growth with expectations to increase sales in the MENA region by another $500,000 this year.

April 12: Trade Talk Tuesday – The Future of Supply Chain
Join U.S. Commercial Service International Trade Specialist, Allie VanDriel, for a conversation with Paul Jarzombek of LR International about the supply chain challenges exporters are facing now and into the future to learn how to build resiliency while managing the continued challenges facing U.S. exporters.

April 13: Online Business Development for Manufacturers
Join Midwest Manufacturers and IBT Online to discuss tools, best practices, and strategies for successful B2B online marketing to grow their business. This free event will help manufacturers understand the online world, upcoming marketing trends, and programs that can be useful to their international objectives.

April 14: Fundamentals of Harmonized System Classification
Understanding how to classify products under the Harmonized System (HS) is essential in keeping your products moving through customs. Join the Van Andel Global Trade Center in-person to learn how to classify and manage your HS data.

May 4: Michigan World Trade Week Business Conference
Michigan World Trade Week is a celebration of international trade and business growth for Michigan. For 36 years, businesses and community leaders have worked together to share international business knowledge and resources at this annual business conference and networking event.

May 10: Integr8 – Industry 4.0 Conference
This annual conference features over 50 Industry 4.0 exhibitors and experts in 3D printing technology, workforce management, cobots, artificial intelligence and more. Manufacturers receive a free Automation Alley Essential Membership by applying here. All Essential Members get one free ticket to the 2022 conference courtesy of the MEDC.