Member Article

North East businesses develop market presence in Brazil, India and Russia

Over 80 North East businesses have built solid international foundations, thanks to the ERDF funded NECC Access Programme, which helps the region’s businesses develop a market presence in Brazil, India and Russia.

Just one year in and the Access Programme’s unique combination of grant support, free events and market visits has provided vital business insight into how these countries operate, hosting upwards of thirteen free events to 100 attendees and provided over £16k in grants to support travel expenses to visit these markets.

The Access programme has further grants available for local businesses looking to explore these dynamic emerging economies, alongside another two market visits planned for later on in November this year and February 2015, to Brazil and Russia respectively.

Programme Leader, Nynzi Maung, said: “There are misconceptions that the markets of Brazil, India and Russia are difficult to penetrate, but success with these countries is very achievable, demonstrated by the committed and determined companies we have helped to date.

“Our varied, free programme of events continues to draw in the North East business audience, whilst thousands of pounds in grants remains up for grabs.

“These essential Market Development Grants are available to local companies who are already experienced exporters, or are in the early stages of trading but unable to employ the skills of an export professional in their area of expertise.”

John Slider, CEO at Canford Audio, attended a recent Access market visit to Russia.

He said: “My first market visit provided me with an invaluable level of business knowledge and background to Russia.

“Although it will take time and several trips to build solid relationships of trust and understanding, the insight offered via the Access Programme has given me a definite advantage over the competition.

“As they say, ‘business is not done between companies, but rather people’.”

The Programme is also hosting its thirteenth event on 12 November at Aykley Heads, Durham. Focusing on “de-risking your export finance”, IT will continue the Programme’s trend for providing essential exporting advice for anyone looking to venture into the markets of Brazil, India or Russia.