Snohomish County—Executive Dave Somers encourages Snohomish County-based businesses to apply for the Greater Seattle Export Accelerator (GSEA) program, which provides export assistance and new trade opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses in Snohomish, Pierce, and King County. The program is operated by Greater Seattle Partners (GSP) with financial support from Snohomish County and is designed to equip businesses with the tools and resources needed to expand their reach in the global marketplace.
Trade and exports have historically been a key component of Snohomish County’s economy, due to its proximity and connectivity to major foreign markets along with the region’s robust air and seaport infrastructure. The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on global trade and recovery is ongoing.
“Our small business community remains the backbone of our main streets and local economy. They provide the goods and services that make our communities thrive,” said Executive Somers. “The Greater Seattle Export Accelerator program can help local businesses take advantage of a robust international marketplace to expand their footprint and build long-term resiliency. I encourage Snohomish County businesses to apply for this exciting program.”
“We have many great small and medium-sized businesses in Snohomish County,” said County Council Vice Chair Nate Nehring (District 1). “Being situated in an international hub gives us great opportunities to send goods made here around the world. This program can help our businesses expand their export potential and continue to grow in Snohomish County.”
Two Snohomish County-based businesses participated in Cohort 1 of the GSEA. Cohort 2 includes:
- Innovative Curriculum: Cohort 2 participants will engage in a robust curriculum covering international market research, export compliance, logistics, and cultural intelligence;
- Expert Mentorship: Proven industry experts and successful exporters will serve as mentors, providing invaluable insights and guidance to cohort participants;
- Networking Opportunities: Cohort members will have exclusive access to a network of fellow entrepreneurs, government officials, and international trade experts, fostering collaboration and partnerships; and
- Global Market Insights: Sessions will include discussions on emerging markets, trade policies, and global economic trends to ensure participants are well-informed about international business dynamics.
Registration for the GSEA is free. Interested companies must submit a completed application to be considered. Applications are due March 24, 2024 and can be found at https://greater-seattle.com/exportaccelerator/.
“Greater Seattle Partners is pleased to collaborate with Snohomish County on the Greater Seattle Export Accelerator. Businesses with less than 15 employees make up 95 percent of Greater Seattle companies. By providing these companies with more resources to grow their exports we will help them increase profits, diversify risk, and create new jobs,” said Brian Surratt, CEO, Greater Seattle Partners.
“I was extremely happy that my business was chosen to participate in Cohort 1 of the Greater Seattle Export Accelerator program. Even though we have been exporting a little, based on our opportunity to increase our volume, the help we received from the program continues to be so helpful. I am very grateful for the contacts and assistance we have received,” said Roland Bonser, whose business VH Technologies Ltd participated in Cohort 1 of the GSEA.
GSEA participants receive instruction through six export modules that include assessing finance capabilities, selecting target foreign markets, and addressing supply chain needs. For more information visit https://greater-seattle.com/exportaccelerator/.
Snohomish County Economic Development’s mission is to create opportunity for all businesses, residents, and workers in Snohomish County through job creation and investment.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
