Export Academy boosts export capability of South West businesses

The Export Academy series has recently been introduced as part of the government’s levelling up agenda with the aim of supporting small and micro businesses and those new to export in the South West. 

The course will be offered to businesses free of charge and will give companies the opportunity to learn directly from experts in international trade during webinars, round tables, and mentoring sessions.

The programme will involve over 50 events and activities to help businesses understand how to trade effectively. 

As part of the Export Academy South West series, DIT will be hosting events around various specialised topics including Intellectual Property, Social Media, and Market Research. 

The 10-part programme is already underway and started on 25th October, but spaces for sessions are still available. A full list of the sessions and the link to apply can be found here.

Sue Steele, Senior Commercial Manager at Furniss Foods, a biscuit manufacturer based in Redruth, Cornwall recently attended the Export Academy. She said:

“We have a relatively small team and are expanding our export exposure. The Academy has been a huge support as export can be both costly and complicated. 

“The webinars have supported us to better understand the pit falls and learn more about how to do export well in the future.

“I would say unless you already have an expert team of export professionals – the programme is a must!”

The Export Academy is being launched as new government research was released earlier this year which estimates nearly 6.5 million jobs in the UK are supported by exports

Paul Shand, DIT’s Head of Trade in the South West said:

“The Export Academy is a fantastic opportunity for small and micro sized businesses with export potential in the South West to take their company to the next level through international trade. 

“We know that companies who export are more likely to be profitable through spreading risk across different markets

“Whether you want to start exporting, or you’re aiming to enter new markets, the Export Academy will give you the know-how to sell to customers around the world with confidence.” 

Businesses can apply for a place on the programme here.

For further information on DIT’s exporting support and international opportunities, visit www.great.gov.uk. Companies in the South West can find out about their export options and contact one of DIT’s International Trade Advisers by visiting https://www.businesswest.co.uk/department-international-trade-south-west.