ICAEW is working with the Department of Industry and Trade to help spread the word of the support on offer to small business. This article highlights the help that is available for businesses looking to export to new markets or those already exporting.
UK trade support network – we have local trade offices based around the UK, within each of which you can contact an international trade adviser.
Internationalisation Fund – match-funded grants of between £1,000 and £9,000 available to small businesses towards the costs of exporting. Companies must be based in England, with up to 250 employees and whose annual turnover does not exceed 50 million Euro or annual balance sheet doesn’t exceed 43 million Euro.
Enhanced International Support Service (EISS) – a new service which provides high potential SMEs with support to grow and expand in new markets. It offers bespoke market advice, access to market insight and intelligence reports, and connections to private sector specialists to help take the next step. At present, available in China, North America, Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa.
Europe Trade Hub – supports UK companies with export enquiries and simplifies their customer journey with contacts, knowledge and resources across 34 markets. It offers the quickest and easiest way for trade advisers and businesses across all sectors to access guidance, source market research, identify opportunities across the whole of Europe and gain an introduction to potential partners and buyers.
great.gov.uk – our digital service has tailored support and advice for businesses on how to start exporting or increase the amount of goods and services they sell overseas with advice, overseas market guides, export opportunities, access to international digital marketplaces, events and overseas visits. Visit https://www.great.gov.uk/
Export Support Service (ESS) – a single point of contact for UK businesses currently focused on answering questions businesses have about trading with Europe but will expand to cover more global markets from next year.
- Ask the export support team a question online or contact our hotline on 0300 303 8955
Global overseas network – we have one of the world’s largest international networks of overseas offices providing trade advice, insight and in-market connections to UK businesses in over 100 overseas markets.
Export Academy – a free webinar and events programme to provide UK businesses with the skills, knowledge and contacts to begin your export journey and exploit opportunities in new overseas markets.
UK Export Finance – the UK government’s credit agency helps companies in the UK to win export contracts by providing attractive financing terms to their buyers; fulfil orders by supporting working capital loans and get paid by insuring against buyer default. UK Export Finance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
DIT Events – events are one of the most effective ways to support companies looking for trade opportunities. DIT's calendar of events is updated regularly with both UK and overseas events as well as overseas missions.