Export Conference to Help Local Companies Harness the Power of International Markets

January 21, 2016

Lutz, Fla. (January 21, 2016) — According to the U.S. Commercial Service, more than 70 percent of the world’s purchasing power is located outside the United States.  The Pasco Economic Development Council is helping local businesses harness that power by providing the information necessary to develop an export strategy during Growing Global: A Half-Day International Exporting Conference on Wednesday, February 10, 2016 (7:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.).

During the conference, companies will hear from local business owners who have grown their companies through export markets and learn about resources available through local exporting partners.  During a unique speed networking session, attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with Consul Generals and Honorary Consuls from France, Germany, Panama, Canada, and Greece. 

A long-time advocate for international trade as a pathway to economic growth in Pasco County, Commissioner Kathryn Starkey will kick-off the conference.  “I am delighted to work with Pasco EDC on the second year of the Growing Global Conference,” said Starkey.  “This year’s event is looking to be even better than last year’s, and I am most excited about the addition of the networking sessions with the Consul Generals and Honorary Consuls.”

Conference presenters include:

• Eileen Rodriguez, Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center at USF
• Dan Bjerk, Director of the Tampa Bay Export Assistance Center
• Max Stewart, Regional Manager, International Trade Development of Enterprise Florida
• Brent Barkway, Manager of Foreign Trade Zone No. 193
• Greg Lovelace, Director, Marketing and Business Development – Cargo & Cruise of Port Tampa Bay

The conference will take place at the Residence Inn Suncoast Parkway at Northpoint Village.  Registration is $20 and includes a continental breakfast.  Space can be reserved online at www.PascoEDC.com/Events or by calling (813) 926-0827.

#          #          #

About Pasco Economic Development Council
Pasco EDC is a non-profit organization that promotes economic development in Pasco County, Florida.  Pasco EDC continues to be a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County. www.pascoedc.com