Entering the world of exporting can be a challenging step. Finding overseas markets, dealing with the initial complexities of exporting, and financing export sales are some of the hurdles facing firms seeking to participate in international trade. The U.S. Export Assistance Center and the U.S. Small Business Administration will work together to guide your firm through the challenges of exporting.

Our one-page Beginning Exporter's Resource Guide contains valuable contact information for companies looking to export or ready to export. That guide can be downloaded here: Beginning Exporter Resource Guide

For information regarding the foundations of exporting, from developing an export strategy to making international contacts, please view the Basic Guide to Exporting
http://www.unzco.com/basicguide/

To help you meet these challenges, the U.S. Small Business Administration offers aid to current and potential small exporters through two major programs: business development assistance and financial assistance. For more information on entering the export market, please visit the SBA's Guide To Exporting

A helpful on-line business toolbox can be found at http://www.nfib.com  NFIB: The Voice of Small Businesses, offers a library of on line business management info pertaining to exporting. Topics include Basics of an Exporting and Importing Contact, Understanding Supply Chain Management, and Basics of an Exporting and Importing Business Plan.

For information on starting an exporting business, please contact Tom Lowles at the Portland Small Business Development Center: (503) 978-5088 or tlowles@pcc.edu.
http://www.pcc.edu/business/small-business-development/

For the more established exporter, the U.S. Export Assistance Center offers market research, business counseling, and regulatory assistance. For a more detailed understanding of how we may help you, please visit the Our Services page.

To learn about basic shipping requirements and documentation please visit: Shipping References