MISSION:
To assist Northeast Indiana companies to expand their markets to international regions.

The key to success in the future economy is ability to compete globally.  Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana have great potential and resources to be successful in a global arena:  Fort Wayne International Airport, Foreign Trade Zone, convenient central location within the central manufacturing and service region of the United States.

What most of the local businesses need is international protocol know-how, information, global exposure of management via education or past business experience and proper international assistance.  To meet these needs the City of Fort Wayne established the Office of International Trade Services as a part of the City's Economic Development Department. By providing assistance, educating and promoting Global Trade, we can make the process of importing or exporting easier for local companies, bring new businesses to the area, help existing businesses to expand to overseas markets and create more higher paying jobs.

The 2007 FORT WAYNE  INTERNATIONAL TRADE CONFERENCE WAS HELD ON APRIL 25.  This year's conference was presented in a different format, as a half day event, with two concurrent sessions in the morning, and a luncheon program. One morning session targeted importers, and another one - exporters. The 2005 Exporter of the Year Award was presented TIPPMANN SPORTS LLC.  ASPHALT DRUM MIXERS INC received the 2006 Exporter of the Year Award.  The Luncheon program was beneficial for everyone, including companies that are not currently involved in international trade.  Well-known economist and news correspondent, Mr. Paul Solman, addressed the participants on the future of  the American and world economy. Click  CONFERENCE to see photos.

The next Global Trade Expo is scheduled for October 1, 2008.

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Ola DeGabriele,  Manager of International Trade