Alabama International Trade Center Supports Local Businesses in Expanding to Global Markets

Serdar HocamAuthor & Editor

Operating within the University of Alabama, the center guides local firms in opening up to international markets and offers internship opportunities for students.

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From Alabama to the world: UA helps businesses grow through exporting

Operating within the University of Alabama, the Alabama International Trade Center offers comprehensive support on export basics, regulations, and market research to help local businesses expand into global markets.

Alabama Products Reaching Global Markets

Wire mesh screens spreading worldwide from Tuscaloosa and Alabama pecans reaching tables in China demonstrate the importance of exports for companies in the region.

Export activities expand markets for companies in Alabama while simultaneously supporting employment and strengthening the state economy.

Comprehensive Support Services Provided by the Center

Led by Brian Davis, the Alabama International Trade Center guides businesses in learning the fundamentals of exporting.

Operating since 1979, the center serves between 150 and 250 Alabama companies each year.

Local Companies Growing Internationally

The center focuses on bidding, shipping, receiving payments, navigating regulations, connecting with customers, and securing credit.

Companies such as LiDAR USA and Hoover-based BioGX state that the center contributed to their international expansion into Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America.

Global Business Experience and Awards for Students

The center paves the way for students to gain global business experience by providing internship opportunities to 10 to 15 students each semester.

In May, Brian Davis was honored for the center's work by Governor Kay Ivey during the annual Trade Excellence Awards.