EXPORT SERVICES PROVIDERS

       When assisting SMEs who are entering or expanding in the global export market, it is anticipated that SBI Sherpa Specialists will interact with some government agencies and private companies that are also involved in this effort.

        In this regard, the more collaboration and synergy initiated to provide technical and financial assistance by the Department of Commerce, the Small Business Administration, the Export-Import Bank and the private sector to this large group of potential exporters, the more likely exports can be increased. SBI, working in conjunction with these agencies, can create a unique blend of the public and private sectors working together for the common goals of increasing exports and most importantly preserving and creating jobs.

       Providing these services both domestically and internationally, there currently exists a network of United States Export Assistance Centers (107 throughout the US), Foreign Service personnel of the Department of Commerce (presence in 83 countries), Small Business Development Centers of the Small Business Administration (1,100 throughout the US, some specializing in export education) and a presence of Export-Import Bank specialists in many areas of the United States.

      SBI also will combine with private sector service providers to provide a wide range of export services. In this vain, SBI will be interacting with private sources that provide a wide range of bank funding alternatives and instruments; shipping, warehousing, packaging and freight services; insurance products; international distribution sources; and documentation and customs services.