Permanent link for The New-to-Export Workshop in West Michigan Is an Essential Resource for Small & Medium Businesses on August 19, 2025

Unlocking Global Growth: Why This Workshop Matters

Once a quarter, Grand Valley State University’s Van Andel Global Trade Center (VAGTC)—sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation—will host a New-to-Export Workshop. For just $15, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) can gain critical, foundational export knowledge.

So why should your business attend?

• A Strategic Launchpad for Exporting
  Exporting unlocks new revenue streams, but it also presents real-world challenges: compliance requirements, tariffs, logistics, and global pricing strategies. This workshop delivers practical guidance and proven tools to help businesses overcome these hurdles and take their first—or next—step into international markets.

• Tailored to Michigan’s SMEs
  In 2023, 89% of Michigan’s 13,885 exporters were small or medium-sized businesses, contributing nearly 21% of the state’s total goods exports. This workshop is designed specifically with them in mind, offering targeted, actionable insights.

• Backed by Van Andel Global Trade Center’s Experience & Network
  Since 1999, VAGTC has hosted over 25+ international trade and compliance events annually across Michigan. Participation in this workshop connects you not only with expert knowledge but also with a robust network of statewide resources to support your export journey long after the event ends.

Global Trade: Challenges & Opportunities for SMEs

Today’s global trade environment is shifting rapidly—but that doesn’t mean small businesses need to be left behind. With U.S. tariffs averaging 18.6%, global growth in merchandise trade forecasted at just 0.9%, and fresh tensions affecting trade with Canada and Mexico, navigating international markets may feel more daunting than ever. (WTO.org , weforum.org)

That’s exactly why the New-to-Export Workshop is so timely. It helps SMEs decode global trade disruptions—turning complex issues like tariff hikes, shifting regulations, and geopolitical uncertainty into clear, manageable strategies. Instead of reacting to change, attendees will learn how to anticipate it, build more resilient export plans, and discover new global opportunities with confidence.

Michigan’s Trade Profile: Strong Foundations & Real Growth Potential

Despite global turbulence, Michigan remains a powerhouse in international trade—and SMEs are at the heart of it.

• Top Export Destinations & Industry Strength
  In 2024, Michigan exported $23.3 billion in goods to Canada alone, making up 38% of the state’s total exports. Other major destinations included Mexico ($17.1B), China ($2.1B), Germany ($1.9B), and Japan ($1.5B)—demonstrating strong demand for Michigan-made products across diverse markets.  (ustr.gov)

• Small Businesses, Big Impact
  Nearly 90% of Michigan exporters are SMEs, proving that size is no barrier to global reach. These businesses play a central role in sustaining the state’s international trade momentum.

• Driving Jobs and Economic Growth
  Exports of manufactured goods supported an estimated 209,000 jobs across Michigan in 2022. Leading the charge is transportation equipment, which alone accounted for $26.6 billion in exports in 2024. Other key sectors include machinery ($5.5B), chemicals ($5.2B), electrical equipment & appliances ($4.5B), and computer & electronic products ($3.2B). These figures highlight not only the state’s industrial strength but also the opportunity for SMEs to plug into global supply chains and drive export-based job creation.  (ustr.gov)

Are You Ready to Go Global?

For Michigan’s small and medium-sized businesses, export readiness is no longer optional—it’s essential. Global trade dynamics are changing fast, and those who are prepared will be best positioned to grow.

The upcoming New-to-Export Workshop offers the tools, insights, and network your business needs to move forward. Whether you’re exploring exports for the first time or looking to build a stronger international strategy, this event is your starting point for success.

Don’t miss out—register now and take your Michigan business global with confidence.

Special Thanks to Our Partners

This event is made possible by the collaboration and support of:
Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, U.S. Small Business Administration, EXIM Bank, U.S. Department of Commerce - Grand Rapids, Michigan Small Business Development Center

Categories: Export MEDC New to Export Tariffs
Posted on Permanent link for The New-to-Export Workshop in West Michigan Is an Essential Resource for Small & Medium Businesses on August 19, 2025.