Trade Team PEI (TTPEI) today launched its 2013 - 2014 Program outlining exciting opportunities and activities that will help Prince Edward Island-based companies further develop and expand their export capabilities.

“Our Government is committed to investing in small- and medium-sized businesses and helping them develop their trade and export capabilities in order to enter and succeed in international markets,” said the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency). “We understand the significant role that trade and export activities play in strengthening the economy in Atlantic Canada.”

The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, is investing a total of $829,000 to help TTPEI organize strategic trade programs, missions and events in an effort to build Prince Edward Island’s trade markets. The Government of Prince Edward Island, through the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning, is also investing an additional $511,130 into TTPEI initiatives.

“The Province is pleased to support Trade Team PEI and the overall growth and development of Prince Edward Island economy, as we establish a strong culture of exporting,” said Minister Roach. “Exports relate directly to the advancement of our Island business sector. As government we want to work with the private sector as much as we can to help accelerate their growth and business successes.”

The TTPEI Program offers numerous activities and opportunities including the continuation of the Export Help Program and the introduction of two new programs: the Cluster Development Program and the Incoming Buyers’ Program. The 2013 - 2014 TTPEI Program also offers market information sessions and export-readiness workshops for businesses throughout the year, as well as the planning and execution of trade missions and trade shows to various regions in North and South America, Europe and Asia.

Among TTPEI’s activities is a special-topic workshop on International Market Research which will take place from September 24 to October 3 at the Rural Action Centres in Central Bedeque, Montague and Alberton, and at the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown.

A second workshop on Sales Management will run from November 5 to 14 at the same locations. These workshops are in partnership with the University of Prince Edward Island’s Centre for Lifelong Learning, the Community Business Development Corporations and The Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce.

Also part of today’s launch was the presentation of the 2013 Exporter of the Year Award to Charlottetown Metal Products for their exemplary work in international business development and market diversification this year. This award recognizes an Island-based company for showing a strong growth in its exports over the past year.

TTPEI, led by ACOA and Innovation PEI, plays a key role in planning activities and delivering programs that are designed to help small- and medium-sized Island businesses effectively compete as exporters.

For more information on TTPEI’s programs, workshops and trade mission schedule, please visit their newly designed website at www.tradeteampei.com .