While we all know the saying ‘April showers bring May flowers’ at the NDTO, May is raining down with events! Check out all the new things happing as we move into spring and onward for 2022.
May 24 brings the return of the Global Business Connections conference hosted in Fargo, ND. This one-day event is packed with keynotes, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and the 2021GBC Awards ceremony. Take this opportunity to engage with ND exporters, the government, and many colleagues and friends who are serious about ND exports. Register here.
In late May, the NDTO, along with ND Agriculture Commissioner Goehring, will lead a trade mission to Peru and Columbia. Prescreened buyers are selected in the host countries to meet with several ND specialty crop producers and processors to expand their business internationally. This project is funded by Specialty Crop Block Grants through the ND Department of Agriculture.
In June, NDTO will lead a small group from ND on a multi-industry trade mission to South Korea. The group is expanding on relationships and foraging new contacts to sell ND products into this region. The SBA STEPND program is funding this project.
Big Iron International Visitors Program planning is well underway for fall, as the NDTO partners with USCS in Fargo to bring a wide variety of international delegates to ND for the Big Iron Farm Show in September. We will be working closely with NDTO member companies to match the delegation’s interests and showcase ND machinery and agriculture technology with tours, education sessions, and interactive activities throughout the show.
October will bring the long-awaited Japanese trade mission, a joint trade and investment mission that is being planned with the ND Governor’s Office, ND Department of Commerce, ND Department of Agriculture, and NDTO. This Governor-led mission will feature several industries from ND to build new and reconnect with existing Japanese partners.
In mid-October, NDTO will lead a trade mission to SIAL Paris for specialty crop producers and processors. This show, held biennially, attracts visitors from over 200 countries to showcase leading innovations in the food industry.
If you and your company are eager to get moving again, don’t forget that NDTO has opportunities for qualified companies to support exporting projects like sales trips, trade missions, marketing, and translation projects through grant funds. Check out more details on grant opportunities here.