New program to help local businesses export

Tim Harcourt – Former Chief Economist for the Australian Trade Commission, lead economic commentator and business lecturer – is on the Sunshine Coast today to launch council’s Export and Global Capability Program.
Businesses that export or are considering exporting are invited to participate in the new program.
Mayor Mark Jamieson – who will join Mr Harcourt at an export networking event tonight for the launch – said the program would help guide businesses through their export journey and identify potential international markets for their products and services.
“The Sunshine Coast Regional Economic Development Strategy aims for 20% of goods and services produced in the region to be exported by 2033 – and our export program helps set up our local business to achieve this goal,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“Exporting expands the market for our Sunshine Coast producers and is one of many facets to the long-term plan of working toward a sustainable economy.
“This is the first of two planned rounds for the Export and Global Capability Program, which will each run for eight to ten weeks.”
Economic Development portfolio councillor Stephen Robinson said the program would help participants develop an export strategy and understand Free Trade Agreements, logistics and pricing.
“Businesses participating will receive an evaluation of their export readiness, masterclass workshops and one-on-one coaching,” he said.
“To further help businesses with exporting, council has established a LinkedIn group for local exporters to connect with each other, and share experiences and information.”
Visit LinkedIn to join the new Sunshine Coast Export Network group. For more information about the program visit council’s website, call 5475 9932 or email economicdevelopment@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.