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UKTI launch export ideas competition

Small firms across the region are being encouraged to come forward with their best export ideas, in a new competition from UKTI.

The new ’Exporting for Growth prize was officially launched by the David Cameron, and Minister for Trade and Investment, Lord Green, last week.

Support worth £5000 and three grants for overseas travel are up for grabs, along with expert business knowledge and insight from sponsor companies.

SMEs have until Friday January 13 to submit their entry, and shortlisted companies will then be invited to present their big export idea to a live audience of business leaders and a judging panel who will then select the winning idea.

North East regional director for UKTI, David Coppock, said: “The North East has a long and proud history of exporting which continues to this day, as the record export figures posted in the last 12 months have shown.

“But while it’s right to shout about this success, the reality is that only a small number of SMEs export their products.

“Companies that export improve their financial performance, are more productive and are more likely to stay in business.

“There is demand all around the world for products for the North East but too many of our smaller firms are missing out on these opportunities. That’s where this competition, and the fantastic prize on offer, will help.”

He went on to urge companies to come forward with a 200 word explanation of their export idea, why it is workable, and why now is the best time to take it to market.

Interested businesses can find out more about the Export for Growth prize, and download an entry form here.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .