Business Support
Go for Growth, Think Global!
Ayrshire businesses with global trade ambitions can now access an unparalleled range of specialist international trade support services, thanks to Scottish Chambers International, a new collaboration involving the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and the international trade divisions of Scotland's other leading Chambers of Commerce.
Scottish Chambers International Operations Director, Ross Clark, explains: 'International markets and global opportunities will allow Scotland to recover from the current challenging trading conditions at home as well as offer significant business development opportunities. What makes us unique is that SCI's services are not restricted in any way. We can work with any Scottish business with global trade ambitions - whether an SME, multi-national; whether a novice to international trade or an experienced operator; whether private sector, public sector or third sector. We will provide help and support to any organisation that is interested in maximising its export potential.'
Expertise second-to-none
The 'hub and spoke' model developed by Scottish Chambers International builds
on the expertise and services offered by Ayrshire Chamber and other key Chambers
of Commerce across the Scottish network. This ensures that all Scottish
businesses can benefit from access to the top quality, value-added international
trade support services offered by individual Chambers, but now accessible across
the country.
SCI has a team of experts with the international trade skills, the knowledge and expertise, and in most cases previous hands-on experience as both importers and exporters, to know what strategic and technical help businesses need to be able to export successfully.
Included in its areas of expertise are specialist advice and consultancy, skills development, overseas market development services, outsourcing services, export documentation and certification services, as well as the provision of a resource library with a host of information and data.
Free support to become a Smart Exporter
In addition to its range of cost-effective products and services, Scottish
Chambers International is working closely with Scottish Development International to deliver Smart Exporter.
This national European match-funded programme provides free or subsidised
support to companies and individuals based in Ayrshire and beyond to help them
increase their exporting skills and knowledge. Specialist training, online
tools and a national helpline is now available, providing much needed support
for Scottish companies seeking to trade globally.
Ross said: 'Our recent survey of Scottish businesses, exploring their export potential and aspirations showed that 55% of Scottish businesses were planning to export in the next five years. However 72% of them felt there was a need for more specialist information, training and support to help them export more successfully. This was the rationale behind the new Smart Exporter programme.'
Start your international journey
www.smartexporter.co.uk
www.scottishchambersinternational.co.uk
