The SBDC offers USF Student Firsthand Look at International Trade

Scholarship Awarded to USF Student to Attend Annual Certification Program

Each year, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at University of South Florida (USF) holds the International Trade Certification Program (ITCP) to assist small business owners who are interested in exploring international markets or who seek to export, but have limited international market experience.

This year, the opportunity to learn about international marketing was given to more than just small businesses. It was given to a student as well.

USF International Business and Marketing student Javier Jane was the recipient of a scholarship from the SBDC to attend ITCP. This opportunity provided Javier with an opportunity to learn firsthand about exporting and importing and a chance to interact with entrepreneurs and industry professionals. It also was a way for the SBDC to give back to its host institution.

?The ITCP allowed me to gain further knowledge in the growing trade business market within the Tampa Bay area, the State of Florida, the United States, and around the world,? stated Javier. ?As an International Business and Marketing student, this seminar permitted me to learn how government and private institutions interact to assist the entrepreneurs and small businesses in developing exporting and importing businesses to contribute in the local and national economy.?

Javier�became interested in ITCP after taking the International Trade Basics seminar offered monthly at the SBDC.� He stated that he highly recommends both seminars to anyone interested in international trade. He also stated that he is very grateful to the SBDC, especially counselor Maria Yepes, for the opportunity.

ITCP ran from April 20-June 1, 2010. The course included seven modules. At completion, all participants received a certificate from the SBDC.