World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara Presents World Trade Celebration: Taste of the World on Nov. 15
NORTH TONAWANDA, NY, [Nov. 1]: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara’s (WTCBN) World Trade Celebration is back with an exciting new format this year: Taste of the World! Held at the prestigious Wurlitzer Events Center located at 908 Niagara Falls Blvd, this event is slated for Wednesday, November 15, 2023.
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Navigating the Future: PANYNJ Virtual "Road Show" - 2023-24 Experts Series
In the ever-evolving landscape of trade and logistics, staying informed is key to success. The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ), a cornerstone of the region's infrastructure, understands this well. Their commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and fostering strong relationships with port users is unwavering.
We are excited to announce an upcoming event that promises invaluable insights for anyone involved in the world of shipping and trade. Join us for the PANYNJ Virtual "Road Show" - 2023-24 Experts Series, hosted by World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN). This virtual gathering is your gateway to understanding the current and future initiatives that will shape the movement of goods in the Northeast and beyond.
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World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara Kicks Off 2023-24 Webinar Series on September 27
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is thrilled to unveil our cutting-edge Webinar Series for 2023-2024. The focus of this initiative is to equip businesses with timely, relevant information that will enable sound decision-making in the fast-paced world of international trade.
Our approach is simple but impactful. We're offering a monthly series of webinars, each featuring experts in fields that matter to you. These live sessions not only provide in-depth knowledge but also give you an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with our panelists through interactive Q&As. For those who can't make it live, worry not; every session will be archived in a video library on WTCBN's website for future reference.
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Strengthening Buffalo Niagara's Global Presence: The Impact of the World Trade Center
For businesses in the Buffalo Niagara region that operate in the global marketplace, the presence of the World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) serves as an essential catalyst for growth and success. Our affiliation with the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), an international ecosystem of global connections, iconic properties, and integrated trade services, provides myriad benefits for local businesses. Here are some key reasons why this association is so advantageous for our region, and for your company:
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Expanding Global Reach with Bannockburn: Expert Foreign Currency Exchange Solutions
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is proud of our collaboration with Bannockburn Global Forex, a globally renowned foreign currency exchange expert. Through this initiative, we aim to offer our members a robust currency exchange solution, enhancing your company's bottom line while enriching your decision-making capabilities in international trade.
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Catalyzing International Trade Growth Through the Diligence Leads Program
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is excited to partner with Rel8ed Analytics (a Coface company), fostering business growth through the innovative Diligence Leads program. As an organization committed to supporting international trade growth and enhancing decision-making capabilities, this collaboration bolsters our efforts to equip our members with a sophisticated tool that will propel their businesses to new heights.
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WTCBN’S WORLD TRADE CELEBRATION RETURNS ON SEPTEMBER 15
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara’s first in-person event in more than two years to focus on EVs and opportunities in Buffalo Niagara
BUFFALO, NY (Aug. 26) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced today that after a two-year hiatus, the organization’s annual World Trade Celebration will return on September 15. This year’s event will be held from 3:00 – 7:30 p.m. at Wurlitzer Events in North Tonawanda.
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WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA HOSTS 4TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CASE COMPETITION
Brock University wins 4th annual International Case Competition
Brock’s Goodman School of Business team maintains its victory streak in World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara’s annual event
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PIATEK TAKES HELM OF WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA BOARD AS CHAIR
International trade organization leading the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region into the post-pandemic global trade environment
BUFFALO, NY (Feb. 10) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced today that at the organization’s first Board of Directors meeting on February 3, the WTCBN Board of Directors unanimously elected Damon Piatek, President & CEO of Welke Customs Brokers USA, as its new Board chairman. Steve Briggs, formerly of Dynabrade, handed over the gavel after three years at the trade group’s helm.
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Trade Data Connect
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is proud to announce a new collaboration with rel8ed Analytics:
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara announces an exciting new members-only program designed to help take your sales targeting – regionally (bi-national), throughout North America or globally – to the next level. Access to this program is available exclusively through WTCBN.
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WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA HOSTS 3RD ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CASE COMPETITION
2021 event moved to virtual format including schools from both sides of the border
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) held the 3rd Annual WTCBN International Case Competition on Friday, March 19th virtually via Zoom. The 2021 Case Competition featured teams from four (4) colleges and universities in the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region.
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WTCBN WELCOMES THREE NEW BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2021
Regional international trade organization bolsters its Board of Directors for outreach and growth in the coming year
BUFFALO, NY (January 28) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced today that at yesterday’s initial meeting of the WTCBN Board of Directors, the board welcomed three new members, who will help guide the international trade business group through continuing challenging times due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“For all not-for-profit business associations, 2020 was a very difficult year that required leadership, creativity and, not to put too fine a point on it, fortitude, to stay sustainable and continue to serve our members,” said Turner. “We would not be we are right now – looking very positively at 2021 with new programs, renewed enthusiasm and in a strong position to help our bi-national region recover – without the dedication and support of our board of directors and leadership team. I know that our new board members, and their areas of expertise, will fit right in, and provide a big boost to our mission.”
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USMCA Information and Resources
The new USMCA replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) when it comes into effect on July 1, 2020. The agreement brings new rules and requirements, updates and upgrades more relevant to the way we do business 25 years after NAFTA was signed, and parameters to better position Canada, Mexico and the United States in the global economy.
Learn more about recent WTCBN programs and resources to help companies understand what they should be doing now to prepare before the agreement goes into effect on July 1st.
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WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA TO PRESENT WEBINAR ON U.S.-MEXICO-CANADA AGREEMENT
Webinar series replaces spring programming due to COVID-19 shutdown
BUFFALO, NY (June 5) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced today that WTCBN will be hosting a four-part webinar series, “Recovery Through Trade,” through June and July, kicking off with a session on the new U.S.-MexicoCanada Agreement (USMCA) on Tuesday, June 9, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
“The post-COVID recovery period has officially started, and global markets are starting to reopen, similar to what we’re experiencing here in the Buffalo Niagara region,” said Turner. “For companies already doing business internationally, it’s time to ramp back up. For companies experiencing an inevitable change in their markets as a result of the ‘new normal’, it’s time to think about recovery through trade.”
The first webinar in the Recovery Through Trade series, “USMCA - How Does it Affect You?” will cover the new USMCA, which replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) when it comes into effect on July 1. The agreement brings new rules and requirements, updates and upgrades more relevant to the way we do business 25 years after NAFTA was signed, and parameters to better position the three North American partners in the global economy.
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USMCA RATIFIED BY CANADA – BUT LET’S DEAL WITH COVID-19 FIRST
by Craig Turner
If you blinked, you might’ve missed it.
While everyone was focused on COVID-19, we actually had some good news in March, as Canadian Parliament ratified the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the last of the agreement’s three partners to do so. The USMCA replaces the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has governed free trade in North America the past half-century.
The news was obviously overshadowed by the current global pandemic – in fact, some argue that Canadian Parliament rushed the measure through before going into a social-distancing hiatus – but it’s a milestone that we’ve been avidly awaiting for a long time. That the agreement was ratified before Parliament went into recess speaks to its importance.
Mexico was the first of the three partner nations to ratify USMCA, doing so in June, 2019. The U.S. Congress followed suit in December, 2019.
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WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA HOSTS 2ND ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CASE COMPETITION
2020 event expanded to include teams from six (6) schools competing, welcoming Daemen and Niagara Colleges
LEWISTON, NY (Feb. 25) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner expressed excitement today about the upcoming 2nd Annual WTCBN International Case Competition, to be held this Friday, February 28 at Niagara University. The 2020 Case Competition will feature teams from six (6) colleges and universities in the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region, up from four (4) teams in last year’s competition.
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The World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara Podcast
At World Trade Celebration 2019, we were very excited to launch the new WTCBN Podcast – a new service to provide timely news, insights and information on international trade topics, designed to offer competitive advantage to companies trading out of the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region.
WTCBN International Cyber Security Event Recap
On Thursday, February 28, WTCBN held a seminar on International Cyber Security for Manufacturers, Bill Palisano from Lincoln Archives/LACyber and Reggie Dejean from Lawley Insurance educated attendees on data security risks, mitigations, requirements and coverages for companies doing business internationally. Following an excellent program, with an awful lot of information shared, we asked Bill and Reggie to give us their Top 3 takeaways from the program.
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WTCBN Joins Nationwide USMCA Advocacy Coalition
Recently, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara joined a nationwide coalition spearheaded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce advocating for Congress to ratify the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA), approved by all three North American partners at the end of November.
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WTCBN Hosting 1st Annual International Case Competition
Teams from Brock, Canisius, Niagara and UB will compete at the Montante Cultural Center at Canisius College
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced that tonight, Friday, March 1, WTCBN will host its 1st Annual International Case Competition, 3:00 – 6:30 p.m. at Canisius College’s Montante Cultural Center. Teams from the undergraduate business and international programs at Brock University, Canisius College, Niagara University and the University at Buffalo will compete using a real-life case supplied by a WTCBN member.
WTCBN USMCA Back-to-Back Events Follow-up
In December 2018, WTCBN hosted back-to-back sessions on the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) – what’s included in the new agreement, what companies should be watching closely, and the political prospects as each of the three countries move toward ratification.
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WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF CANADA-U.S. TRADE COUNCIL
BUFFALO, NY (Dec. 11) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced this week the official launch of the WTCBN Canada-U.S. Trade Council, one of a series of International Trade Councils designed to serve companies doing business in specific markets around the world. Turner announced the new Trade Council at last week’s series of panel discussions on the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
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WTCBN ADDS SIX NEW BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2019; BRIGGS TO CHAIR ORGANIZATION
Regional international trade organization bolsters its Board of Directors for outreach and growth in the coming year
BUFFALO, NY (Nov. 27) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced today that at the organization’s annual meeting on Wednesday, November 14, the WTCBN Board of Directors elected Steve Briggs, VP of Sales for Dynabrade, Inc., as its new Board chairman. Nancy Dempsey, of Unifrax, who has served as chair for the past two years, stepped down recently for personal reasons.
“The only thing that cushions the blow of losing a fantastic Board chair is replacing her with another fantastic Board chair,” said Turner. “Nancy’s positive impact on WTCBN will be felt for a long time, as her vision for the future, coupled with a conscientious attention to detail, has put this organization on the right track for growth. Steve has been one of WTCBN’s most enthusiastic champions, and we’re looking forward to his leadership as we navigate a confusing, and often tumultuous, trade environment on behalf of our members.”
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WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF MEXICO TRADE COUNCIL
Launch of Mexico Trade Council coincides with WTCBN 2018 Annual Meeting and 30th Anniversary Celebration
BUFFALO, NY (Nov. 14) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced this evening the official launch of the WTCBN Mexico Trade Council, one of a series of International Trade Councils designed to serve companies doing business in specific markets around the world. Turner announced the new Trade Council at the organization’s Annual Meeting and 30th Anniversary Celebration at Pearl Street Grill and Brewery.
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WORLD TRADE CENTER BUFFALO NIAGARA ANNOUNCES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COUNCILS
Launch of China Trade Council to coincide with WTCBN China Town Hall Tuesday evening, with additional councils to follow each month.
BUFFALO, NY (Oct. 9) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced today that WTCBN will create a series of International Trade Councils to serve companies doing business in specific markets around the world. The WTCBN Trade Councils will kick off with the launch of the China Trade Council at this evening’s 12TH Annual CHINA Town Hall, in partnership with the National Committee on U.S. China Relations, at The Delevan Hotel in Lancaster.
The WTCBN Trade Councils are designed to provide support, information, education and sharing of best practices for WNY and Southern Ontario companies doing business in targeted global markets, where the region has a critical mass of companies trading. The Councils are open to WTCBN members, and comprised of both mature companies working in the respective markets, as well as new companies engaging in a new market. Participating in a Council is intended to enhance companies’ international efforts, and create competitive advantage through access to knowledge and expertise. Trade Council activities will include opportunities for peer-to-peer expertise, on-going content specific to each market, and an individualized media library.
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COLLABORATIVE EVENT FOCUSES ON BLOCKCHAIN APPLICATIONS IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, ITGO, InfoTech WNY and Blockchain Buffalo partner to Blockchain for Supply Chain conversation to regional companies.
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Why WTCBN is partnering with a bunch of organizations to do a session on Blockchain for Supply Chain (and why we're doing a Blockchain 101 first!)
by Craig W. Turner
As president of World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) and Executive Director for the Buffalo Niagara International Trade Gateway Organization (ITGO), I get a LOT of e-newsletters each morning. Without question, the #1 keyword across all of my morning trade and logistics newsletters is…
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WTCBN Announces 2018 World Trade Celebration
BUFFALO, NY (Aug. 6) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) president Craig Turner announced today that World Trade Celebration 2018, the premiere international trade event of the year, will be held on Thursday, September 20 at the beautiful new event facility, Events at the Wurlitzer, in North Tonawanda. Patrick Whalen, executive director for the Niagara Global Tourism Institute (NGTI) will serve as keynote speaker.
“We’re thrilled that Pat has agreed to be our keynote speaker for World Trade Celebration this year,” said Turner. “Pat’s involvement with World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara goes back to its earliest beginnings, and his leadership in our bi-national region’s efforts to grow international trade has been extensive. As we celebrate our 30th year serving Western New York and Southern Ontario’s international trade community, we’re looking forward to hearing Pat’s review of our region’s success and challenges, as well as his outlook for the future.”
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A Message from WTCBN Interim President Craig Turner
Click here to view a message from WTCBN Interim President Craig Turner.
WTCBN Announces Craig Turner as Interim President
Focus will be on the organization's present and future
BUFFALO, NY (Dec. 18) – World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is pleased to announce that Craig Turner has agreed to join the organization as interim president, WTCBN Board of Directors Chair Nancy Dempsey said today.
“Through Craig’s work regionally in economic development, and particularly trade and logistics, he is already very much engaged in initiatives that are aligned with WTCBN’s work,” said Dempsey. “We are looking forward to his leadership in strengthening the organization’s place in the bi-national Buffalo Niagara business community, and interjecting new ideas with an eye on the future.”
WTCBN Held Annual World Trade Celebration Event With Special Guests
June 22nd, 2016 in Buffalo, NY: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara held their annual World Trade Celebration event which recognizes the importance of international trade on May 17, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo. The event brought together over 200 members of the Buffalo-Niagara region's international business community.
The keynote speaker for the program was Ralph Carter, Managing Director of Legal, Trade and International Affairs for FedEx Express who spoke on the importance of international business, potential trade policy changes on the horizon, and how FedEx is expanding globally while navigating the risks ahead.
Also giving remarks at the event during programs which took place before the keynote were the Honorable Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions, Member of Parliament, Government of Canada and Phyllis Yaffe Consul General of Canada in New York.
WTCBN Adds 11 New Board Memebers, Expands Services
(Buffalo, NY)—On January 1, 2017, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) added 11 new board members and expanded its services to help support companies in Upstate New York and Southern Ontario in navigating the global marketplace.
“The vast majority of economic growth is occurring abroad. To reach these markets, our companies need to export to a greater degree while reducing risks. This will help our region improve economic growth and create jobs benefiting our families and communities,” said John Manzella, WTCBN President and CEO.
“WTCBN board members provide invaluable counsel and advice to our organization, as well as to local companies. The 11 new board members, which brings our board up to 24, will expand our reach into the community and help us in our educational and awareness process,” added Manzella.
WTCBN Announces 2016 Buffalo Export Controls Seminar with the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security
September 21 - 22, 2016 in Buffalo, NY: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), the Upstate New York District Export Council and the U.S. Department of Commerce, present a two-day export controls seminar. The first day of this notable program will be on The Essentials of U.S. Export Controls; the second day of the program will cover Developing an Export Compliance and Management Program. Export policy specialists from BIS will present key information regarding export compliance during this fast-paced program drawing businesses and government representatives from all over the globe. These programs are targeted to experienced exporters interested in both refreshing their knowledge about export compliance and exchanging ideas about export control issues in a hands-on manner.
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WTCBN Announces 2016 World Trade Celebration - The Global Trade and Economic War: Critical Lessons Learned and Forgotten
June 22nd, 2016 in Buffalo, NY: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara's annual event celebrating international trade will be here soon, mark your calendars!
The keynote speaker will be William C. Lane, former Global Director of Government Affairs, Caterpillar Inc..
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WTCBN Announces New President & CEO
The World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara Board of Directors are proud to welcome John Manzella as the new President and CEO.
In addition to having John join the WTCBN team, WTCBN will be offering new services along with traditional consulting, certification programs, seminars and networking in an effort to better serve you and the community.
These include:
• On site presentations and workshops with a focus on global growth and risk mitigation.
• Reports that provide insight and analysis on critical issues and global business development.
• Foreign investment attraction.
• Inbound and outbound trade missions.
• Public affairs and advocacy efforts designed to educate stakeholders and elected officials on policies that support international business.
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Do You Import? - Resources and Information to be Aware of
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) hosted an informative event and webinar on import compliance on February 19th, 2015. The program featured speakers Damon Piatek of Welke Customs Brokers USA and Peter Russell from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Attendees received information on ways to save money on their import procedures and resources from U.S. Customs to stay up-to-date on policies and procedures.
Featured WTCBN Member - Phillips Lytle LLP
An international law firm assisting companies in over 40 countries. Phillips Lytle is able to assist its clients with knowledge that can prove invaluable when doing business in foreign markets in terms of navigating the local laws, procedures, economic and business climates, cultures and politics. Services include:
- Compliance Counseling
- Facilities Security Clearances
- Joint Ventures
- Financial Transactions
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Licensing & Distribition Agreements
- Intellectual Property
- Immigration including EB-5
Dictionary of International Trade - WTCBN Member Benefit
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is excited to introduce a new member benefit for Manufacturing companies in 2015. Upon renewal, companies will receive the Dictionary of International Trade.
Sponsored by Welke Customs Brokers, this 792 page reference guide is one-third dictionary and two-thirds encyclopedia. In addition to an A to Z section, there are 26 important appendices.
WTCBN Announces 2015 World Trade Celebration - Global Sustainability
May 20th, 2015 in Niagara Falls, NY: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara's annual event celebrating international trade will focus on global sustainability, a crucial concern for both organizations and individuals. The event will feature a luncheon panel with breakout programs before the keynote presentation highlighting local sustainability efforts and resources.
The keynote presentation will focus on global sustainability, how local actions make a global impact and why it is important no mater what industry you are involved in or the size or your organization. The event will include a gala networking reception and local company showcase highlighting sustainability in the region.
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WTCBN Announces New Website
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara announces the launch of thier new website. Designed by Tall Girls Design, the lively new website highlights the events and services offered to companies in the region interested in international trade.
Grants to Assist with Exports
State Trade & Export Promotion (STEP) Global NY Exports Grant - The Small Business Administration, through Empire State Development, is offering grants to U.S. small businesses that can help them increase their exports or export potential. Click here to review the criteria and take advantage of this incredible opportunity if you do qualify.
If you have any questions about how WTCBN can assist you with exporting, then please contact us directly.
WTCBN Announces 2015 Events Calendar
World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara announces thier 2015 events calender. View upcoming events for more information.
