The Export-Import Bank of the U.S. assists in financing the export of U.S. goods and services, providing such financial programs as export credit insurance, finance guarantees and many others. Chicago area contact: Michael Howard, Midwest Director, tel 312-353-8093, michael.howard@N0SPAM.exim.gov .

The Global Trade and Technology Network is a USAID program that promotes trade with developing countries via a user-friendly, free of charge Internet-based trading platform.

The International Trade Commission publishes trade flow statistics by six digit HS code, including import and export data.

The Mid-America International Agri-Trade Council (MIATCO) is a private, non-profit association assisting food and agricultural product companies to promote international sales. Chicago area contact is Teresa Miller, tel 312-334-9200, tmiller@N0SPAM.miatco.org

The Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms (TAA) is a U.S. Department of Commerce sponsored agency that provides financial assistance to manufacturers affected by import competition. Chicago area contact: Howard Yefsky, tel 312-368-4600, hy@N0SPAM.appliedstrategiesintl.com .

The Overseas Private Investment Corporation  (OPIC) helps U.S. businesses invest overseas, fosters economic development in new and emerging markets, complements the private sector in managing the risks associated with foreign direct investment, and supports U.S. foreign policy.

The U.S. Small Business Administration offers assistance and financing, including export working capital loans, etc. Chicago area contact: John Nevell, 312-353-8065, john.nevell@N0SPAM.sba.gov .

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA) advances economic development and U.S. commercial interests in developing and middle income countries. The agency funds various forms of technical assistance, feasibility studies, training, orientation visits and business workshops. TDA is uniquely positioned to work with U.S. firms and host countries in achieving the agency's trade and development goals. In carrying out its mission, TDA gives emphasis to economic sectors that may benefit from U.S. exports of goods and services.