Scottish Government
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Export from Scotland goes live
A new online, one-stop shop has been launched today to provide guidance to Scottish companies on exporting and growing their international business.
‘Export from Scotland’, developed by Scottish Development International (SDI) and Smart Exporter with funding from the European Social Fund, delivers a range of free international trade training modules to all Scottish companies and individuals.
The Preparing to Export modules, developed for the Scottish market, provide the first step in training companies to develop their expertise to help realise their export potential. In addition, an export assessment tool provides a snapshot of a business’ current export readiness.
Enterprise Minister Fergus Ewing said:
“The Scottish Government and its enterprise agencies are working tirelessly to strengthen Scotland’s economic links in overseas markets. These efforts are paying off with the latest Global Connections Survey showing that Scottish exports increased by an estimated value of £355 million to £22 billion in 2010.
“The global economic downturn shows how interconnected world markets are, and this reinforces the need for us to work effectively with the business community to emphasise and enhance the strengths of Scotland’s economy, and to help indigenous companies grow and export. This new online resource will help us do just that and I would encourage every ambitious business to go online and make the most of the support on offer at ‘Export from Scotland’.
“The site is tailored to the needs of Scottish companies with content produced by experts at Scottish Development International. Most importantly the information is free and the step by step guide which helps users plan their route into international markets will give companies the practical advice they need to trade in new markets.”
The 'Export from Scotland' site also provides several International Guides covering key topics such as foreign currency trading, joint ventures, international marketing and also provides access to social media training through Hubspot's Inbound Marketing University.
Anne MacColl, chief executive of Scottish Development International, said:
"We've developed this free online resource to help all Scottish companies, no matter how big or small, explore new markets. For some, these tools can offer support in taking that first step into trading overseas and for others, it will provide expert guidance and advice on a range of specific areas involved in building and strengthening international relationships.
"We know that, despite ongoing tough economic circumstances, targeting overseas markets is a key way for Scottish companies to expand and successfully realise future plans. As such, SDI is committed to equipping home-grown businesses with the key tools necessary to do so, ultimately driving long-term sustainable growth back into Scotland's economy."
Related information
Export from Scotland ensures companies are equipped with the right skills to do business in new markets. The main features include:
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Export training centre – Scottish companies can register for access to a whole suite of free export training tools delivered through the Smart Exporter initiative
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Export and trade guide ? Step-by-step guide to help users plan their route to international markets and find new business opportunities
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Services to help grow your business ? Resources to give Scottish companies the know-how and confidence to successfully export and trade in new markets
The Smart Exporter programme is created through investment by Scottish Development International (SDI), Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) and the European Fund.
