Past Events

Join us in our annual celebration of international trade and business. World Trade Celebration 2025 includes the networking reception of the year for Buffalo Niagara’s international trade community, featuring the opportunity for companies involved in international trade to showcase their organization and initiatives to our international business audience.

Keynote Speaker: TBA

Location: TBA

Program Partners: UB Asia Research Institute, UB Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Club and The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations

In collaboration with WNY and Southern Ontario colleges and universities, WTCBN will hold the 7th Annual International Case Competition, inviting teams from international and business programs in the region to compete. The program will include the case presentation, pitches, and a keynote speaker.

Participants can hear the students’ pitches tackling a real-life case provided by a WTCBN member, judges questions and comments from professionals in international trade and business from around the US and Canada.

Keynote Speaker: TBA

Location: University at Buffalo, Amherst, NY

As a new U.S. administration takes office, significant changes are on the horizon for trade policy, tariffs, and border enforcement. Staying ahead of these developments is critical to ensuring your business remains compliant and competitive in a rapidly shifting landscape.

We’re excited to announce that Dean Wood, a highly respected expert with a close working relationship with both the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will be our featured guest presenter. Dean also maintains a direct channel to key legislators, providing unique insights into the latest developments and what’s coming next in the world of trade and enforcement.

Location: Virtual

Speaker: Dean Wood, CEO, BorderWorx Logistics

Join WTCBN for Coffee with the Chair, a new monthly discussion meeting. Led by WTCBN Chairman and licensed customs broker Damon Piatak, attendees will receive timely information on trends, updates in trade regulations and more. Join us for coffee* and stay to network with members of WTCBN and our trade community.


*Attendees are to pay for any food/beverage purchases they make.

Location: SPoT Coffee Williamsville (5330 Main Street, at the corner of Main Street and Union Rd.)

Join WTCBN for Coffee with the Chair, a new monthly discussion meeting. Led by WTCBN Chairman and licensed customs broker Damon Piatak, attendees will receive timely information on trends, updates in trade regulations and more. Join us for coffee* and stay to network with members of WTCBN and our trade community.


*Attendees are to pay for any food/beverage purchases they make.

Location: SPoT Coffee Williamsville (5330 Main Street, at the corner of Main Street and Union Rd.)

Join WTCBN for Coffee with the Chair, a new monthly discussion meeting. Led by WTCBN Chairman and licensed customs broker Damon Piatak, attendees will receive timely information on trends, updates in trade regulations and more. Join us for coffee* and stay to network with members of WTCBN and our trade community.


*Attendees are to pay for any food/beverage purchases they make.

Location: SPoT Coffee Williamsville (5330 Main Street, at the corner of Main Street and Union Rd.)

Entering global markets is a strategic move that offers various pathways, each tailored to specific business goals and market conditions. Exporting, licensing and franchising, joint ventures, purchasing or partnering, free trade zones… There are many different approaches to consider, all with pros and cons. Join WTCBN and our panel of international trade experts on how to identify your optimal market entry strategy, balancing risk, investment, and potential reward, tailored to your needs, and the markets you’re considering.

Series Sponsors: Dynabrade, Lumsden McCormick LLP, Piatek Customs & Logistics and Speed Global Services

Location: Virtual

Speakers:

Rosanna Masucci, U.S. Department of Commerce, Buffalo Export Assistance Center – LINKEDIN

Mo Sumbundu, Empire State Development/GlobalNY – LINKEDIN

When you look through the World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara web site and social media, you’ll notice frequent references to “international business.” As our region’s conduit for international trade, we spend a great percentage of our time working with companies that have no physical product to sell, but are still importing or exporting their services. With an international border in the middle of our service territory, the ability and know-how to do business in an international market can be a difference-maker. Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and our panel of experts for guidance and insights on how to make selling internationally be a tool for your growth.

Series Sponsors: Dynabrade, Lumsden McCormick LLP, Piatek Customs & Logistics and Speed Global Services

Location: Virtual

Speakers:

Tracey Ford, US Commercial Service, US Embassy Ottawa

David Lever, Tronconi Segarra – LINKEDIN

Location: Virtual (CHINA Town Hall), In-Person (University at Buffalo North Campus)

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations and the University at Buffalo Asia Research Institute

Location: Virtual (CHINA Town Hall), In-Person (University at Buffalo North Campus)

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations and the University at Buffalo Asia Research Institute

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for an important and timely webinar, "2024: Monetary Policy Turns, Geopolitical Tensions Rise, and Global Elections Excite." This session promises insightful discussions led by a panel of distinguished experts: Kathleen Hays, renowned for her in-depth economic coverage on Bloomberg, will share her unique insights from recent conversations with global central bank and government officials. Marc Chandler, a seasoned market strategist, will offer valuable perspectives on the US economy and election year trends. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex forces shaping our world in 2024, and expert insights to inform your decision-making as the U.S. Presidential election approaches.

Series Sponsors: Dynabrade, Lumsden McCormick LLP, Piatek Customs & Logistics and Speed Global Services

Location: Virtual

Speakers:

Marc Chandler, Bannockburn Global Forex - LINKEDIN

Additional Speaks TBA

Trade agreements provide unique pathways for businesses to tap into global markets, offering cost savings, risk reduction and new opportunities. Companies that understand the nuances of these pacts can drive revenue growth by unlocking new markets – the right markets – with a competitive edge. Join WTCBN and our panel of trade experts to learn how companies are using trade agreements to grow internationally, faster and with more predictability.

Series Sponsors: Dynabrade, Lumsden McCormick LLP, Piatek Customs & Logistics and Speed Global Services

Location: Virtual

Speakers: 

Damon Piatek, Piatek Customs & Logistics – LINKEDIN

Kevin Jacobi, CanadaBW – LINKEDIN

Rosanna Masucci, U.S. Department of Commerce, Buffalo Export Assistance Center – LINKEDIN

Technological advancements are reshaping global trade at an unprecedented pace. Digitization is simplifying documentation through blockchain, artificial intelligence is being used to optimize supply chains, and e-commerce platforms connect sellers and buyers worldwide. As technology continues to evolve, it promises to make global trade more accessible, efficient, and resilient, bridging gaps and fostering a truly interconnected global economy. Are you prepared? Join WTCBN and our panel of experts to learn what’s happened, what’s happening, and what’s to come for technology transforming international trade.

Series Sponsors: Dynabrade, Lumsden McCormick LLP, Piatek Customs & Logistics and Speed Global Services

Program Partner: InfoTech WNY

Location: Virtual

Speakers: 

Nallan Suresh, University at Buffalo – LINKEDIN

Dean Wood, Borderworx - LINKEDIN

Scott Falbo - LenderLogix LINKEDIN

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is proud to announce the upcoming Supply Chain Forum, a virtual event that serves as the continuation of Niagara University's acclaimed series on the same subject. Scheduled for Thursday, January 11 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., this forum promises to deliver invaluable insights and actionable information for anyone involved in manufacturing, supply chain management, logistics, warehousing, and fleet management.

Location: Virtual

Speakers:

Jack Ampuja, Supply Chain Optimizers and Professor Jim Kling, Niagara University

We're inviting Buffalo Niagara's top restaurants to showcase their regional culinary expertise at this year's World Trade Celebration! Taste of the World is a new and exciting format that highlights the region's rich culinary diversity. In addition, attendees will learn more about the country-specific international connections through the World Trade Centers Association, a network of over 300 World Trade Centers in 90 countries.

World Trade Celebration 2023 also includes the networking reception of the year for Buffalo Niagara’s international trade community. 

Location: Wurlitzer Events Center, North Tonawanda, NY

The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ) is consistently improving its infrastructure to meet the shipping needs of its customers today and into the future. Part of PANYNJ’s mission includes building relationships with its port users to communicate operational updates, volume forecasts, and on-going initiatives to increase the capacity and fluidity of the gateway. Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and PANYNJ for an overview of current and upcoming efforts underway to ensure your cargo is moving smoothly and efficiently.

Series Sponsors: Dynabrade, Lumsden McCormick LLP and Piatek Customs & Logistics

Location: Virtual

Speakers:

Nicol Polidoro – Port Authority of New York and New Jersey- Northeast Regional Account Manager, Business Development and Industry Relations (LINKEDIN)

Amanda Valdes - Port Authority of New York and New Jersey - Manager of Business Development and Industry Relations (LINKEDIN)

Stephan Pezdek - Port Authority of New York and New Jersey- Regional Freight Planning Manager (LINKEDIN)

CHINA Town Hall connects leading China experts with Americans around the country for a national conversation on the implications of China’s rise on U.S.-China relations and its impact on our towns, states, and the nation.

This year's national broadcast features Ambassador Nicholas Burns.

Presented by: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations

Informed decision-making through data and data analytics is now the path forward for growth in international markets. Understanding and using information to plot your company’s growth strategy offers both revenue generating and cost saving advantages that you may not have identified otherwise. Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and our expert panelists for a deep dive into why, if you want to succeed in growing internationally, data must be a part of your strategy.

Also, learn about World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara’s exciting new partnership with Rel8ed Analytics (a Coface company), the Diligence Leads program.

Location: Virtual

Panelists:

Bob Lytle, Rel8ed Analytics – LINKEDIN

Jack Ampuja, Niagara University – LINKEDIN

Rosanna Masucci, U.S. Department of Commerce – Buffalo – LINKEDIN

In collaboration with WNY and Southern Ontario colleges and universities, WTCBN will virtually host the 5th Annual International Case Competition, inviting teams from international and business programs in the region to compete. The program will include the case presentation, pitches, and a keynote speaker.

Participants can hear the students’ pitches tackling a real-life case provided by a WTCBN member, judges questions and comments from professionals in international trade and business from around the US and Canada.

Keynote Speaker: Bob Lytle, Founder and General Manager, Rel8ed, a Coface Company

Program Sponsors: Calamar, Dynabrade, Lumsden McCormick CPA, Rich Products, and Speed Global Services

Location: Niagara University, Lewiston, NY

Canada’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is an innovative and dynamic program aimed at helping small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) overcome barriers to exporting. World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is pleased to offer TAP Canada in the Niagara, Canada region, a program that is rapidly gaining momentum across Canada, and a reputation of achieving real results, fast.

Through its Expert Partners, TAP Canada gives companies access to Canada’s top exporting advisors, resources and contacts. Companies will have the opportunity to work with industry leaders to build a comprehensive Export Plan, and then begin its implementation.

We encourage companies to take advantage of this unique opportunity to accelerate their firm’s growth and export capacity. The services and visibility offered through TAP Canada are valued at approximately $25,000. This extensive program is offered to Canadian businesses for only $995CAD +GST.

Winter 2023 Program Dates:

Febraury 21 - Virtual Half-Day
March 1-2 - Full Day In-Person Sessions
March 9 - Virtual Half-Day

Program Partners: 

Canadian National Partners: Air Canada Cargo, Business Development Bank of Canada (bdc), Export Development Canada (EDC) Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) 

Program Creators: World Trade Centre Toronto, Toronto Region Board of Trade 

Location: TBA

You are invited to join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for our 2022 Annual Meeting, on Thursday, November 17.

From 10:00 - 10:30 AM, WTCBN Board President Damon Piatek and WTCBN Executive Director Craig Turner will present virtually on the state of the organization, and outlining our plans for 2023 to serve you, our members and our bi-national trade community. Catch up with us, learn what WTCBN has been working on, and get a better understanding of how our services and network can help your company grow. 

Event Speakers: Craig Turner, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and Damon Piatek, Chairman, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Sponsors: Rich Products, Calamar, Dynabrade and Vanocur Refractories 

Location: Virtual

CHINA Town Hall connects leading China experts with Americans around the country for a national conversation on the implications of China’s rise on U.S.-China relations and its impact on our towns, states, and the nation.

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for a discussion about the national broadcast featuring former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, China, and Singapore, Jon M. Huntsman Jr.

Location: Virtual

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations

It’s been two years since we’ve been able to gather the trade community together to celebrate our bi-national region’s reach into the global marketplace, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone, in-person, again.

Featuring a panel discussion on electric vehicles in freight transportation, our keynote panel featuring information on EV infrastructure opportunities and resources, and a real-life EV car show, World Trade Celebration 2022 is sure to open a wide audience’s eyes to how vital transportation is to international trade in our region, and Buffalo Niagara’s significant role in the future of the industry.

World Trade Celebration 2022 also includes the networking reception of the year for Buffalo Niagara’s international trade community, featuring the opportunity for companies involved in international trade to showcase their organization and initiatives to our international business audience.

Location: Wurlitzer Events Center, North Tonawanda, NY

In collaboration with WNY and Southern Ontario colleges and universities, WTCBN will virtually host the 4th Annual International Case Competition, inviting teams from international and business programs in the region to compete. The program will include the case presentation, pitches, and a keynote speaker.

Participants can hear the students’ pitches tackling a real-life case provided by a WTCBN member, judges questions and comments from professionals in international trade and business from around the US and Canada.

Keynote Speaker: TBA

Location: Virtual via Zoom

The US/Mexico/Canada Free Trade Agreement – effective July 2020 and considered the “gold standard” of FTAs – builds on NAFTA’s strong legacy and has proven to be a catalyst for businesses to expand cross-border exports.

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and our program partners for this free webinar that will be beneficial to companies based in both Canada and the U.S.

Location: Virtual via Zoom

Program Partners: Consulte General of Canada in NY, Welke Customs Brokers USA

Canada’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is an innovative and dynamic program aimed at helping small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) overcome barriers to exporting. World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is pleased to offer TAP Canada in the Niagara, Canada region, a program that is rapidly gaining momentum across Canada, and a reputation of achieving real results, fast.

Through its Expert Partners, TAP Canada gives companies access to Canada’s top exporting advisors, resources and contacts. Companies will have the opportunity to work with industry leaders to build a comprehensive Export Plan, and then begin its implementation.

We encourage companies to take advantage of this unique opportunity to accelerate their firm’s growth and export capacity. The services and visibility offered through TAP Canada are valued at approximately $25,000. This extensive program is offered to Canadian businesses for only $495CAD +GST.

Winter 2022 Program Dates:

January 25 - Application Deadline
February 2 - March 4 - Topic-Specific Workshops (7 half-day sessions in the AM)
April 4-5 - Workshop Metoring and Validation with Experts and Partners

Program Partners: 

Niagara Program Partners: Lippes Mathias Wexler & Friedman LLP

Canadian National Partners: Air Canada Cargo, Business Development Bank of Canada (bdc), Export Development Canada (EDC) Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) 

Program Creators: World Trade Centre Toronto, Toronto Region Board of Trade 

Location: Virtual

WTCBN’s Annual Meeting celebrates our membership and leadership, working to grow international opportunities for our bi-national region. Our Annual Meeting also includes WTCBN’s annual report to members, highlighting successes of the previous year and outlining what’s to come in 2022.

Our keynote speaker this year will be Mellada Kirisits, Vice President / General Manager of Food Segment, for Multisorb, Filtration Group. Mellada will highlight Multisorb’s recent transition, and how it prepared the Multisorb team for its reaction to the pandemic and post-pandemic business environments. Mellada will also delve into the current workforce challenges being widely experienced in manufacturing and supply chain.

Event Speaker: Mellada Kirisits, Vice President / General Manager of Food Segment, Multisorb, Filtration Group

Sponsors: Calamar, WNY FTZ

Location: Virtual

CHINA Town Hall connects leading China experts with Americans around the country for a national conversation on the implications of China’s rise on U.S.-China relations and its impact on our towns, states, and the nation.

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and the UB Confucius Institute for a program on trade with China followed by a national broadcast featuring CNN host and best-selling author Fareed Zakaria.

Location: Virtual via Zoom

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations and the University at Buffalo Confucius Institute

Over the last year, the global marketplace has been anything but predictable. Buffalo Niagara companies have not only had to endure a pandemic-related regulatory environment at home simply to keep operations up-and-running, but an array of changes and challenges in every market they serve – not to mention everything in-between. Mitigating financial risk in your procurement, operations and supply chain was a critical topic before the pandemic, and is even more so now.

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and our expert panelists for an important and timely panel discussion on what you should be doing now to minimize risk for your company, even as you pivot out of the pandemic and look to your future.

Speakers: Ed Arnold, President, Trade Credit Insurance Agency; Drew Collins, Managing Director, Business Development, Bannockburn Global Forex; Martin McCormick, Managing Director, Bannockburn Global Forex; and Bob Tharnish, Senior VP, Quality Assurance & Attorney Network Services, ABC-Amega

Location: Webinar

The Buffalo Niagara International Trade Gateway Organization (ITGO), in partnership with the Greater Buffalo Niagara Regional Transportation Council (GBNRTC) and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) will present a webinar on the recently completed WNY Regional Freight Plan. 

The 2021 plan is an update to the original Niagara Frontier Urban Area Freight Transportation Plan, completed in 2010, and offers comprehensive guidance to regional governments, economic development agencies and the private sector on freight movement projections, needs and opportunities over the next 25 years. Project consultant, WSP, will walk stakeholders through the updated plan, including strategies for moving forward and priority projects.

As this plan Update was progressing, the global economy was impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic which introduced uncertainty about potential longer-term economic implications and restructuring of supply chains. The timing was, in the end, beneficial, as WSP’s work will help our region make sound planning decisions through the lens of post-pandemic freight movement needs.

The program is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

Location: Webinar

Multisorb Technologies is the worldwide leader in active packaging technology. For more than 50 years, Multisorb has offered solutions for managing and controlling moisture, oxygen, odors and other volatiles to ensure product stability and extend shelf life, serving a set of diverse global markets including healthcare, food and beverage, electronics and logistics and industrial.

On Monday, May 24, the team at Multisorb is opening its doors (virtually) to our members. Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for an exciting virtual tour of Multisorb, and see first-hand their newly-restructured, innovative supply chain process. For the first time publicly telling the story of their recent operational transformation, the team at Multisorb will highlight their processes for daily management, automation of commercial invoice and shippers letter of instructions, level loading/picking ahead, international checklist, Kanban implementation and PFRP (Plan For Every Part) – all under the supply chain umbrella.

Speakers: A group of panelists from Multisorb Filtration Group

Location: Webinar

Canada’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is an innovative and dynamic program aimed at helping small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) overcome barriers to exporting. World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is pleased to offer TAP Canada in the Niagara, Canada region, a program that is rapidly gaining momentum across Canada, and a reputation of achieving real results, fast.

Through its Expert Partners, TAP Canada gives companies access to Canada’s top exporting advisors, resources and contacts. Companies will have the opportunity to work with industry leaders to build a comprehensive Export Plan, and then begin its implementation.

We encourage companies to take advantage of this unique opportunity to accelerate their firm’s growth and export capacity. The services and visibility offered through TAP Canada are valued at approximately $25,000. This extensive program is offered to Canadian businesses for only $495CAD +GST.

Spring 2021 Program Dates:

May 11 - Application Deadline
May 18-19 - 2-Day Workshop (Export Readiness Training)
May 26-June 10 - Topic-Specific Workshops (5 half-day sessions in the AM)
July 7-8 - Workshop Metoring and Validation with Experts and Partners

Program Partners: 

Niagara Program Partners: Lippes Mathias Wexler & Friedman LLP

Canadian National Partners: Air Canada Cargo, Business Development Bank of Canada (bdc), Export Development Canada (EDC) Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) 

Program Creators: World Trade Centre Toronto, Toronto Region Board of Trade 

Location: Virtual

Buffalo Niagara’s economy was built on trade and logistics, and today, our bi-national region’s connection to the global marketplace remains substantial. But in order to remain as a competitive hub for commerce, we need to continue to produce and recruit workforce to support growth in the supply chain industry to facilitate manufacturing and distribution investment on both sides of our border.

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara on Wednesday, April 21 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. and our panel of experts for a discussion on the current state of supply chain education in the region, the pathways that have been created from high school to credentialing programs to higher ed and where the resources you need will come from in the future.

Speakers: Chris Bigouette, Charter School for Applied Technologies; Mark Frascatore, Niagara University; Dr. James Kling, Niagara University and Karen Kwandrans, Niagara County Community College with additional speakers TBA

Location: Webinar

One of the most pressing challenges for companies doing international business right now is reaching their audiences, whether those are customers and prospects, distributors or suppliers. The virtual environment has provided solutions, but few will say it’s as effective as the ability to attend in-person meetings or trade shows.

Here in Buffalo Niagara, we feel it doubly, as the CanAm border being closed to non-essential travel has effectively divided our regional economy. Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara on Tuesday, March 23 from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. for our panel on cross-border sales in the post-pandemic environment. We’ll look at immigration rules and requirements, how to put your best foot forward digitally and what the future holds.

Speakers: Kevin Jacobi, CanadaBW; Bob Lytle, rel8ed Analytics; Eileen Martin, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman; Rosanna Masucci, US Department of Commerce; and Zaynah Marani, Marani Law

Location: Webinar

In collaboration with WNY and Southern Ontario colleges and universities, WTCBN will virtually host the 3^nd Annual International Case Competition, inviting teams from international and business programs in the region to compete. The program will include the case presentation, pitches, awards presentation and a keynote speaker.

Participants can hear the students’ pitches tackling a real-life case provided by a WTCBN member, judges questions and comments from area professionals in international trade and stay for the keynote and awards. 

Keynote Speaker: Robin van Puyenbroeck, Executive Director-Business Development, World Trade Centers Association

Location: Virtual via Zoom

Program Sponsors: Calamar, Rich Products Corporation

The CanAm border remains closed to non-essential travel, even as both sides deal with the health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. While freight traffic has now returned to pre-COVID levels, passenger traffic across the Niagara River bridges is essentially non-existent, creating a host of challenges for a diverse group of stakeholders, including tourism, cross-border businesses and local governments.

On January 26 and February 2, join the South Niagara Chambers of Commerce, the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for back-to-back webinars on the CanAm border closure and prospects for re-opening, its impact on our bi-national regional economy, and real-life stories on how interests on both sides have been dealing with it (and will continue to do so).

Location: Webinar

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara’s Global Business Academy (GBA) is a new program for companies getting started in export, or enhancing their existing export international business. Through this ten-week course, companies will be educated by experts from the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region, enjoy 1-on-1 mentoring relationships and create their own export plan.

All educational courses and mentoring sessions will be delivered via Zoom. The GBA will also feature “open office hours,” enabling participants to interact and get questions answered in a group setting as they complete their export plans.

GBA participants should expect lots of relevant information, worthwhile interactions with speakers, mentors and peer companies, and game-changing strategies to grow your business.

Program Schedule:

Week One - Introductions & Overview - Wednesday, January 27th and Thursday, January 28th

Program Sponsors: ECIDA, M&T Bank, National Fuel, National Grid, Speed Global Services, U.S. Department of Commerce Buffalo Export Assistance Center and Welke Customs Brokers

Location: Virtual

The CanAm border remains closed to non-essential travel, even as both sides deal with the health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. While freight traffic has now returned to pre-COVID levels, passenger traffic across the Niagara River bridges is essentially non-existent, creating a host of challenges for a diverse group of stakeholders, including tourism, cross-border businesses and local governments.

On January 26 and February 2, join the South Niagara Chambers of Commerce, the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for back-to-back webinars on the CanAm border closure and prospects for re-opening, its impact on our bi-national regional economy, and real-life stories on how interests on both sides have been dealing with it (and will continue to do so).

Location: Webinar

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara announces an exciting new members-only program designed to help take your sales targeting – regionally (bi-national) or globally – to the next level. Access to this program is available exclusively through WTCBN.

Join us for a half-hour, no-strings-attached webinar overview of the WTCBN/rel8ted Analytics Data and Sales Targeting Optimization Program on Wednesday, December 9 at 2 p.m.

Our partner, rel8ed Analytics, combines North America’s largest repository of business data with proprietary algorithms, revealing links between businesses, owners, suppliers and competitors. rel8ted Analytics drives customer success using predictive analytics, public data, and big data analysis on corporations, business owners, and their market activities.

Coupled with the power of the World Trade Center network, WTCBN/rel8ted’s program will help you better target your outreach both locally in the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region, throughout North America, and globally.

Location: Webinar

CHINA Town Hall connects leading China experts with Americans around the country for a national conversation on the implications of China’s rise on U.S.-China relations and its impact on our towns, states, and? nation.?

In light of the growing downturn in U.S.-China relations over the past year, CHINA Town Hall has expanded from a single night into a multi-night series of programming to address the range of issues confronting the relationship.

The series will kick off with a keynote event with renowned investor Ray Dalio, followed by events on three subsequent evenings, each focused on a specific issue area. 

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and the UB Confucius Institute for a roundtable discussion on trade with China on November 10th and panel discussion on November 19th that will bring together content from the roundtable, Ray Dalio keynote (November 10th) and Economics and Trade program (November 17th) from the National Committee on U.S. China Relations' 2020 CHINA Town Hall program.

Local Program Speakers: John DeLuca, International Sales Manager, Liberty Pumps; Professor Jessie Poon, Department of Geography, University at Buffalo; and Alex Siegel, Director of International Sales, Conax Technologies and Dr. John Wood, Vice Provost, International Education, University at Buffalo

Location: Virtual via Zoom

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations and the University at Buffalo Confucius Institute

WTCBN’s Annual Meeting celebrates our membership and leadership, working to grow international opportunities for our bi-national region. Our Annual Meeting also includes WTCBN’s annual report to members, highlighting successes of the previous year and outlining what’s to come in 2021.

Our keynote speaker this year will be Adam Pratt, president of WTCBN member company, Sherex Fastening Solutions. Adam will speak on how the Covid pandemic has changed domestic and international operations at Sherex and plans for the future.

WTCBN’s 2020 Annual meeting will also focus on how our community can work together to support and enhance the international trade environment in a time that continues to be filled with uncertainty and caution.

Event Speaker: Adam Pratt, President, Sherex Fastening Solutions

Sponsors: Calamar, M&T Bank 

Location: Virtual

The U.S. Presidential election is coming up fast, and the final outcome will impact many areas of life – included among them international trade. Though, with more sensational topics dominating the headlines, trade policy isn’t necessarily taking center stage in the public sphere. Join WTCBN on Wednesday, October 21 at 2 p.m. for a panel discussion on the upcoming election, and insights on the candidates’ positions on North American and global trade policy, as well as perspectives from the Canadian trade community, following it all very closely. 

Panelists: Douglas Kennedy, RBC Managing Director, Centre for Global Enterprise, Schulich School of Business (York University); Chelsey Penrod Hickman, Winning Strategies Washington; and Jack O’Donnell, O’Donnell & Associates

Location: Webinar

While there’s still a great deal of uncertainty from COVID-19, the economy appears to be coming back, and companies doing business internationally are resuming making decisions about their futures. On October 8, join WTCBN for a forecasting webinar for the rest of this year and into 2021. We’ll hear from Marc Chandler, Chief Market Strategist for Bannockburn Global Forex, who will offer his thoughts on the global economic recovery from COVID-19 and forecast for next year, followed by a moderated discussion with Marc and Jim Manno, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Sonwil Distribution, who will offer industry perspectives on Marc’s outlook.

Speakers: Marc Chandler, Chief Market Strategist, Bannockburn Global Forex and Jim Manno, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Sonwil Distribution

Location: Webinar

Canada’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is an innovative and dynamic program aimed at helping small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) overcome barriers to exporting. World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is pleased to offer TAP Canada in the Niagara, Canada region, a program that is rapidly gaining momentum across Canada, and a reputation of achieving real results, fast.

Through its Expert Partners, TAP Canada gives companies access to Canada’s top exporting advisors, resources and contacts. Companies will have the opportunity to work with industry leaders to build a comprehensive Export Plan, and then begin its implementation.

We encourage companies to take advantage of this unique opportunity to accelerate their firm’s growth and export capacity. The services and visibility offered through TAP Canada are valued at approximately $25,000. This extensive program is offered to Canadian businesses for only $495CAD +GST.

Fall 2020 Program Dates:

September 9 - Application deadline
September 16-17 - 2-Day workshop (Export Readiness Training)
September 24-October 19 - Topic-specific workshops (5 half-day sessions in the AM)
November 10-13 - Workshop metoring and Validation with Experts and Partnersand Partners

Program Partners: 

Niagara Program Partners: Lippes Mathias Wexler & Friedman LLP, Niagara County IDA

Canadian National Partners: Air Canada Cargo, Business Development Bank of Canada (bdc), Export Development Canada (EDC) Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) 

Program Creators: World Trade Centre Toronto, Toronto Region Board of Trade 

Location: Virtual

International business relies heavily on trade shows and in-person relationship-building, a casualty – at least for 2020 – of the COVID global pandemic. But U.S. and Canadian exporters still need to sell, which means finding other ways to reach their global markets. What are the new tools for marketing? How can technology open doors for new business? How can you replace the invaluable person-to-person connection that trade shows offer? Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for our webinar and expert panel on the future of international sales.

Panelists: Taryn DeGray, Export Development Executive, Reed Exhibitions; John DeLuca, International Sales Manager, Liberty Pumps; Rosanna Masucci, Director, Buffalo Export Assistance Center, U.S. Department of Commerce and moderated by: Craig Turner, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Location: Webinar

Sponsors: Hodgson Russ LLP, Calamar, Consulate General of Canada in New York, the Niagara County IDA, Rich Products Corporation and Speed Global Services

Whether it’s reshoring, diversification or simply new processes at the port-of-entry, changes are coming to supply chain in the post-COVID world. The global economy is a moving target, but companies still need to make decisions about their immediate and long-term futures. What are companies doing now, and to prepare for these changes? What decision-making processes are in place? What procedural changes are being made throughout the supply chain, including at the ports? Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for our webinar and expert panel on what you need to be watching as the post-COVID economic recovery plays out.

Panelists: Joe Berti, President, Speed Global Services; Rob Clark, Category Manager US/C Region, Global Procurement, Rich Products Corporation; Nancy Dempsey, Customer Service Manager, Unifrax and moderated by: Craig Turner, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Location: Webinar

Sponsors: Hodgson Russ LLP, Calamar, Consulate General of Canada in New York, the Niagara County IDA, Rich Products Corporation, Speed Global Services and Unifrax I LLC

The U.S.-Canada border is in the heard of not only World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara’s regional territory, but our regional economy. As a result of COVID-19, the CanAm border has been shut down to “non-essential” travel, creating significant challenges for business, economic and personal interests on both sides – challenges that other parts of both countries may not feel with as much pain. Re-opening will come at some point, but when and how? What does it need to look like? What will unavoidably change going forward? Be a part of the discussion! Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for our webinar and expert panel on re-opening the Canadian-U.S. border.

Panelists: Donald Cyr, President, Niagara Industrial Association; Dr. Kathryn Bryk Friedman, Global Fellow, Woodrow Wilson Center; Research Professor, University at Buffalo; Jill Apa, Immigration Attorney, Hodgson Russ LLP; Ron Rienas, General Manager, Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority and moderated by: Craig Turner, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Location: Webinar

Sponsors: Hodgson Russ LLP, Calamar, Consulate General of Canada in New York, Rich Products Corporation, Speed Global Services and the Niagara County IDA

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), or the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), depending on which side of the CanAm border you’re on, has been ratified and will go into effect on July 1. As companies doing international business in North America first deal with the needs and requirements of coming out of the COVID-19 economic shutdown, the new agreement will be upon us shortly. Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for our webinar and expert panel on the agreement that is replacing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) – what’s in it, what’s behind it and, most importantly, how will it impact your operations across the border.

Panelists: Kevin Jacobi, Executive Director, CanadaBW Logistics, Inc; Khawar Nasim, Deputy Consul General of Canada in New York; Damon Piatek, President & CEO, Welke Customs Brokers USA; Christine Bonaguide, Parter, Hodgson Russ LLP and moderated by: Craig Turner, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Location: Webinar

Sponsors: Hodgson Russ LLP, Calamar, Consulate General of Canada in New York, Niagara County IDA and Welke Customs Brokers USA

In collaboration with WNY and Southern Ontario colleges and universities, WTCBN will host the 2^nd Annual International Case Competition, inviting teams from international programs in the region to compete. The program will include the case presentation, pitching, awards ceremony, a keynote speaker and a dinner/reception, featuring teams from the undergraduate programs at Brock University, Canisius College, Niagara University, the University at Buffalo and more!

Join us before dinner starts to hear the students’ pitches tackling a real-life case provided by a WTCBN member, and stay for the keynote, awards and networking with the students, faculty and fellow WTCBN members.

Keynote Speaker: George Small, Chief Technology Officer, Moog Inc.

Contest Judges: Rob Clark, Rich Products, Lynn Oswald, Niagara SBDC, Marika Swain, Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Rosanna Masucci, U.S. Department of Commerce, Nancy Dempsey, Unifrax I LLC, Paul Goodwin, Business Development Bank of Canada, Kevin Jacobi, Canada BW, Linda Soltis, Consulate General of Canada in NY, Bob Lytle - rel8ted, Additional judges TBA

Event Sponsors: Calamar, Dynabrade, Lumsden & McCormick CPA, Moog Inc, Niagara County IDA, Niagara University and Rich Products Corporation

Location: Niagara University, Lewiston, NY

After much pessimism throughout 2019, it now seems like the economy is bound for another year of growth and expansion … or is it? Manufacturing may still be in recession and business investment has stalled. Trade tariffs have made imports more expensive and depressed farming income. But consumers have held up their end of the bargain and delivered solid holiday retail sales. The stock market has delivered a stellar year of growth, too. With geopolitical tensions growing, will the economy be able to withstand these pressures and extend its now record business cycle expansion? Please join Dr. Alexander Heil, PhD, Chief Economist of the Port Authority of NY & NJ, in his discussion of the outlook for the national and global economy. Dr. Heil will provide his view of current economic conditions, the effects of continued protectionist trade barriers, and the extent to which any monetary or fiscal policy changes may play an important role in 2020 and beyond.

Speaker: Dr. Alexander Heil, PhD, Chief Economist of the Port Authority of NY & NJ

Location: Webinar

Due to popular demand, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is excited to bring back our Global Business Administration program this fall. The seven week program provides critical knowledge that empowers participants to take their companies global. From beginners interested in exporting or seasoned veterans seeking greater market share abroad, this invaluable program will help local companies increase revenue and mitigate risks.

Registration includes materials, 1 year of WTCBN membership (for non-members), company case study consultation, the option to be paired with a graduate-level intern for project research and Trade Expert accreditation upon course completion.

After completing the program, company participants will know how to identify the “right” foreign markets, and understand foreign entry and expansion strategies, supply chain issues, trade finance, export controls, legal aspects of trade, how to conduct market research, and much more. 

Location: World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, beers, and distilleries—oh my! It’s no secret, the Beer & Distillery Industry of Western New York is booming. Find out how it relates to markets around the United States at this seminar.

Join key industry leaders from Western New York for an up-to-date look into the trends, advancements and culture defining the Beer & Distillery Industry today—and try some of the best local craft beers and spirits while you’re at it.

Panelists: John Cimperman, Founder, 42 North Brewing Company; Bobby Finan, Co-Founder, Tommyrotter Distillery; Mike Shatzel, Founder, Thin Man Brewery; and Jeff Ware, Founder, Resurgence Brewing Co.

Moderator: Tim Herzog, Founder, Flying Bison Brewing Company

Location: Flying Bison Brewing Company, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: FIFTEEN, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Vanner Insurance Agency, Insyte Consulting, UB School of Management and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

China's rapid development and Sino-American relations have a direct impact on the lives of just about everyone in the United States. CHINA Town Hall is a national day of programming designed to provide Americans across the United States and beyond the opportunity to discuss issues with leading experts.

The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations' CHINA Town Hall this year will be a national discussion on the Sino-American relationship and the issues that are impacting us, our businesses, our educational institutions, our communities, our states, and our country.

Following the national webcast, will be a town hall-style discussion, with the goal of encouraging attendees to talk candidly about their attitudes, concerns, and feelings surrounding the bilateral relationship.

Live Webcast Speakers: George Stephanopoulos, Chief Anchor of ABC News with panelists Steve Orlins, President of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations; Melanie Hart, Senior Fellow and Director for China Policy at the Center for American Progress; and Dr. Yasheng Huang, Epoch Foundation professor of international management and faculty director of action learning at Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Location: Hayes Hall, University at Buffalo, Buffalo NY

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations, University at Buffalo Confucius Institute and the U.S. Department of Commerce Buffalo Export Assistance Center 

Canada’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) is an innovative and dynamic program aimed at helping small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) overcome barriers to exporting. World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is pleased to offer TAP Canada in the Niagara, Canada region, a program that is rapidly gaining momentum across Canada, and a reputation of achieving real results, fast.

Through its Expert Partners, TAP Canada gives companies access to Canada’s top exporting advisors, resources and contacts. Companies will have the opportunity to work with industry leaders to build a comprehensive Export Plan, and then begin its implementation.

We encourage companies to take advantage of this unique opportunity to accelerate their firm’s growth and export capacity. The services and visibility offered through TAP Canada are valued at approximately $25,000. This extensive program is offered to Canadian businesses for only $495CAD +GST.

Fall 2019 Program Dates:

November 4 - Application deadline
November 18 & 19 - 2-day workshop (Export Readiness Training)
December 3 - Full-day workshop (Export Plan)
January 14 - Full-day workshop (Mentoring and Validation with Experts and Partners)

Program Partners: 

Niagara Program Partners: Niagara Foreign Trade Zone

Canadian National Partners: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), National Partner, Export Development Canada (EDC), Air Canada Cargo 

Program Creator: World Trade Centre Toronto, Toronto Region Board of Trade 

Location: Best Western St. Catharines Hotel & Conference Centre, St. Catharines, Ontario

WTCBN’s Annual Meeting celebrates our membership and leadership, working to grow international opportunities for our bi-national region. Our Annual Meeting also includes WTCBN’s annual report to members, highlighting successes of the previous year and outlining what’s to come in 2020.

Our keynote speaker this year will be Keith Smith, senior vice president of public affairs and mobilization at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the largest manufacturing association in the United States. The NAM represents small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector in every congressional district.

The focus of Keith Smith’s presentation will be the importance of international trade with a focus on how our community can work together to support and enhance the international trade environment while we are in a time that is filled with uncertainty and caution.

Event Speakers: Keith Smith, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Mobilization, National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)

In Partnership With: The Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Allinace

Sponsors: Dynabrade, ECIDA, M&T Bank, KeyBank, Phillips Lytle LLP and Sonwil Distribution 

Location: Templeton Landing, Buffalo, NY

Join WTCBN Member company ABC-Amega for a webinar on the USMCA trade agreement.

The US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement was signed in November 2018, but has yet to be ratified. How does this new, trilateral trade agreement differ from NAFTA in? And what do U.S. businesses need to be aware of before USMCA is in place?

Join ABC-Amega and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara President, Craig Turner on July 11 as he discusses the proposed new deal; and shares information on the role that the World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara plays in the USMCA Coalition for North America.

Program content will touch on:

• What will change in USMCA from NAFTA?

• What are the biggest challenges to it being ratified by Canada and Mexico?

• Which industries will be impacted the most?

• What do U.S Importers & Exporters need to do to prepare for USMCA?

In October, 2018, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN), the Buffalo Niagara International Trade Gateway Organization (ITGO), InfoTech WNY and Blockchain Buffalo collaborated on an event connecting two separate but related conversations – growth of blockchain technology and growth of blockchain technology in supply chain. Representatives from Buffalo’s blockchain, logistics and manufacturing communities joined for a well-received introductory conversation.

On June 12, the four organizations, in collaboration with the University of Buffalo, will present a follow-up event, to allow those companies and individuals the opportunity take the conversation to the next level in hopes of building a foundation for greater development of blockchain technology among the logistics ecosystem in the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region.

Location: Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors, Amherst, NY

Program Partners: Blockchain Buffalo, Buffalo Niagara International Trade Gateway Organization, InfoTech WNY and the University at Buffalo

Sponsors: Conax Technologies, M&T Bank and WNY Foreign Trade Zone 

Join us in our annual celebration of international trade and business. World Trade Celebration 2019 includes the networking reception of the year for Buffalo Niagara’s international trade community, featuring the opportunity for companies involved in international trade to showcase their organization and initiatives to our international business audience.

Keynote Speaker: Chris Feeney, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Delaware North

Location: The Westin Buffalo, Buffalo, NY

In collaboration with WNY and Southern Ontario colleges and universities, WTCBN will host the 1^st Annual International Case Competition, inviting teams from international programs in the region to compete. The program will include the case presentation, pitching, awards ceremony, a keynote speaker and a dinner/reception, featuring teams from the undergraduate programs at Brock University, Canisius College, Niagara University and the University at Buffalo.

Join us before dinner starts to hear the students’ pitches tackling a real-life case provided by a WTCBN member, and stay for the keynote, awards and networking with the students, faculty and fellow WTCBN members.

Keynote Speaker: John DeLuca, International Sales Manager, Liberty Pumps

Contest Judges: Steve Briggs, Vice President Sales, Dynabrade; Rob Clark, Category Manager Global Procurement, Rich Products Corporation; Nancy Dempsey, Manager, NA Customer Service, Unifrax I LLC; Kevin Jacobi, Executive Director, Canada BW; and Rosanna Masucci, Director, Buffalo Export Assistance Center, U.S. Department of Commerce

Program Sponsors: Calamar, Canisius College, Niagara University and Rich Products Corporation 

Location: Montante Center, Canisius College, Buffalo, NY

Is your business prepared to deal with fraud? How do you defend against it? What are the first steps you should take when it strikes? How do you help your customers and clients feel safe when they entrust you with their information?

Join key industry leaders from the Western New York area as they lead a discussion on fraud, its impacts, real costs and how to protect your business—and your bottom line—through it all.

Panelists: J.P. Kennedy, ESQ. United States Attorney, Western District of New York; Dennis C. Vacco, ESQ, Partner, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Michael McCartney, President, Avalon Cyber Division; Donna Leduc, Director of Business Banking Operations, Citizens Bank and Jill Johnson, CPA, CFE, Partner, Lumsden & McCormick LLP

Moderator: Thomas Ulbrich, Assistant Dean, UB School of Management and Executive Director, UB Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

Location: Burchfield Penny Art Center, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: FIFTEEN, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Vanner Insurance Agency, Insyte Consulting, UB School of Management and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Can your company’s international operations handle a cyber security attack or, better yet, stop one from happening altogether? Companies doing business internationally face not only increased vulnerability of data or IP theft, but different procedures and policies among the various global markets they touch. Fortunately, policies, processes, technologies and best practices are being created and refined every day to help protect you and your customers. Join WTCBN to learn about the challenges ahead, and what your company can do to mitigate the risk of cyber attacks on your supply chain.

At this program you will gain:

- An understanding of current risk vectors & current threat landscape.

- A simplified, alternative approach on hardening your defenses, and locking down your supply chain.

- Policies, protections and procedures you should have in place to not only stop attacks from happening, but to respond to a breach in markets that may have different rules than at home.

Event Speakers: Bill Palisano, President of Lincoln Archives/LACyber and Reggie DeJean, Specialty Insurance Director for Lawley Insurance

Location: Speed Global Services, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: Conax Technologies, M&T Bank and WNY Foreign Trade Zone 

At the end of September, the U.S., Canada and Mexico announced that they had reached an agreement to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), called the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Details of the agreement continue to roll out publicly, companies are trying to determine how it will affect them, and there is still a process to have the agreement ratified that may or may not be affected by elections in the U.S. and, possibly, Canada. What’s the real story, and what do companies need to know right now to prepare for USMCA? Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for back-to-back expert panel discussions on USMCA – one on each side of the border – to learn the ins-and-outs of the new agreement, and its path forward to ratification.

Event Speakers: Christine Bonaguide, Partner, Hodgson Russ LLP and Lauren Schellinger, Vice President, M&T Bank with additional panelists TBA

December 5th Location: Hodgson Russ, Buffalo, NY

December 6th Location: Canada BW, Niagara Falls, ON

Sponsors: ECIDA, Hodgson Russ LLP and M&T Bank

Presented by ABC-Amega, Inc. - Regardless of where your company or customers are located, advancements in risk management have a global impact. Learn how the latest trends in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity are transforming how companies in the U.S. and abroad manage financial risk. The educational seminar will be followed by a seasonal wine tasting and networking event in the wine cellar at Winkler & Samuels in the 500 Seneca building.

Program Speakers: Dave Newell, Founder, Loptr LLC & Lowkey Software LLC and Anthony Scriffignano, PHD, SVP and Chief Data Scientist, Dun & Bradstreet

Location: 500 Seneca, Buffalo, NY

Sponsored & Supported by: ABC-Amega, Inc., the International Trade Administration and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Join us in recognition of 30 years of serving the bi-national Buffalo Niagara region during World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara’s 2018 Annual Meeting. This event will celebrate our organizations 30-year history, from the creation of an international trade community to today, and into the future, and the people and companies who have contributed to our success.

WTCBN has been affiliated with the World Trade Centers Association since 2000. Attendees will learn more about the advantage that this membership offers companies in the region from those who have benefited, and exciting new opportunities and initiatives coming up in 2019.

Event Speakers: Martin Salloum, Regional Director, North America World Trade Centers Association and Nancy Dempsey, Manager - Customer Service, Unifrax I LLC & WTCBN Board Chairwoman

Location: Pearl Street Grill & Brewery, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: Calamar, Columbus McKinnon Corporation, Conax Technologies, M&T Bank, Phillips Lytle LLP and Rich Products Corporation

Open any international trade journal right now, and you’ll see an article on how Blockchain is the future of supply chain. It can be a confusing message, since most of what the layman knows at a 50,000-foot level about Blockchain revolves around cryptocurrency. But the biggest players in global supply chain have already started their move, and the time is now for companies working in the global marketplace to get to know Blockchain and its logistics and supply chain applications.

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara is partnering with Blockchain Buffalo, the Buffalo Niagara International Trade Gateway Organization (ITGO) and InfoTech WNY for a two-part educational session, held back-to-back, including a general overview of Blockchain, followed by a more detailed Blockchain for Supply Chain.

Location: US itek, Tonawanda, NY

Program Partners: Blockchain Buffalo, InfoTech WNY, and Buffalo Niagara International Trade Gateway Organization

China's rapid development and Sino-American relations have a direct impact on the lives of just about everyone in the United States. CHINA Town Hall is a national day of programming designed to provide Americans across the United States and beyond the opportunity to discuss issues with leading experts.

The CHINA Town Hall will take place on October 9, 2018 and will feature Condoleezza Rice, former secretary of state and national security advisor as the national webcast speaker.

Speakers: Condoleezza Rice (via live webcast) and  Professor Winston Chang, Director of Masters Program in Economics, University at Buffalo with additional speakers TBA.

Location: The Delevan Hotel, Lancaster, NY

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations, UB Confucious Institute and the U.S. Department of Commerce

Due to popular demand, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is excited to bring back our Global Business Administration program this fall. The seven week program provides critical knowledge that empowers participants to take their companies global. From beginners interested in exporting or seasoned veterans seeking greater market share abroad, this invaluable program will help local companies increase revenue and mitigate risks.

Registration includes materials, 1 year of WTCBN membership (for non-members), company case study consultation, the option to be paired with a graduate-level intern for project research and Trade Expert accreditation upon course completion.

After completing the program, company participants will know how to identify the “right” foreign markets, and understand foreign entry and expansion strategies, supply chain issues, trade finance, export controls, legal aspects of trade, how to conduct market research, and much more. 

Location: ECIDA, Buffalo, NY

Keynote Speaker: Patrick Whalen, Executive Director, Niagara Global Tourism Institute

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. Pat’s work on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus has created opportunity locally, and garnered worldwide attention. His current work at the Niagara Global Tourism Institute is already changing the face of Niagara Falls (NY) tourism, and the Institute isn’t even at full capacity yet, with the NGTI’s much-anticipated tourism incubator under development and coming online soon! Hearing Pat’s perspective on WTCBN’s role in our bi-national region as we celebrate our 30th anniversary will be a highlight of World Trade Celebration.

Join us before the keynote presentation for a panel discussion on "The Tumultuous Trade Environment: How Companies are Riding the Trade Roller Coaster" 

World Trade Celebration 2018 also includes the networking reception of the year for Buffalo Niagara’s international trade community, featuring the opportunity for companies involved in international trade to showcase their organization and initiatives to our international business audience.

Location: Events at the Wurlitzer, North Tonawanda, NY

Attending a trade show can be a great investment for your company, if you plan strategically. Join the Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for this two-part program.

Attendees will learn best practices for preparing marketing materials before traveling, getting your trade booth and materials to the show, targeting potential buyers and post-show follow-up.

Learn from trade shows experts and local companies that have exhibiting and attending shows down to a science.

Speakers: Michael Storck, Partner, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP and Ronald Veiders, Director of Marketing, Dynabrade Inc.

Location: Dynabrade, Clarence, NY

Presented by: The Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

"72% of companies are forecasting an increase in leadership vacancies over the next three years and 76% are less than confident they can fill them.” – Corporate Leadership Council

Change is hard, but it’s much easier when you’re prepared for it. Join the leaders of some of Western New York’s hottest companies for a discussion on how they identify and grow top talent for the future.

Panelists: George Chamoun, CEO, ACV Auctions; Rich Gold, President & COO, M&T Bank; Jed Hunter, COO, West Herr and Samantha Bonano, President, Buffalo Filter 

Moderator: Sharon Randaccio, President & COO, Performance Management Partners

Location: Burchfield Penny Art Center, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: FIFTEEN, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Food importers – are you aware of your responsibilities under U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s newly-adopted Food Safety Verification Program (FSVP)? Many aren’t, as the new rules and enforcement remain murky. But FSVP is the law, and it requires that importers in the U.S. have written food safety programs in place. Soon enough, food importers will be required to comply. Are you ready?

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for an insightful discussion on the FSVP, including what it means to your company, and what comes next

Speakers: Damon Piatek, President, Welke Customs Brokers USA; Robert Leo, Partner, Meeks, Sheppard, Leo & Pillsbury and Ryan Jackson, Supplier Quality Assurance and Food Safety Manager, Rich Products

Location: Hyatt Place Buffalo/Amhesrt, Amhesrt, NY

Sponsor: Welke Customs Brokers USA

Attending a trade show can be a great investment for your company, if you plan strategically. Join the Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for this two-part program.

Attendees will learn best practices for preparing marketing materials before traveling, getting your trade booth and materials to the show, targeting potential buyers and post-show follow-up.

Learn from trade shows experts and local companies that have exhibiting and attending shows down to a science.

Location: Hadley Exhibits and The Foundry, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: The Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Join The Buffalo Club and the American Immigration Lawyers Association in a program featuring the U.S. Consul General in Toronto, Juan Alsace.

Buffalo native, Mr. Alsace runs all operations at one of the world's largest US Consulates.  This includes State, Commerce, Justice, Homeland Security and Defense Dept. activity in Canada's commercial, cultural and financial capital.  He has been a diplomat for 31 years, including stints heading Caribbean and Intelligence departments.  Mr. Alsace was honored with numerous prestigious awards for this service.

For the past decade, BLF has meant business in Western New York, bringing together company leaders to discuss the challenges faced by our local community. Now we’re coming back together to celebrate all we’ve accomplished, and to unveil a rebrand and new website that will help carry our goals into the next ten years.

Please join us for an evening of networking, insight and honoring our past speakers at the Terrace at the Marcy Casino.

Location: The Terrace at the Marcy Casino, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: FIFTEEN Agency, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Join The Consulate General of Canada in New York and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara in an event to highlight gender diversity in international trade. Both global engagement and gender inclusivity are economic development tools that can be used to reduce poverty and increase economic growth.

Leaders and entrepreneurs in our bi-national community will discuss current programs and best practices that will enable attendees to better understand the benefits that diversity brings to supply chains and international business in our region and across the globe.

Panelists:

• Consulate General of Canada in New York Phyllis Yaffe
• New York State Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes
• Anita Agrawal, CEO Best Bargains and President, Organization of Women in International Trade – Toronto Chapter
• Nancy Dempsey, Logistics & Trade Compliance Specialist, Unifrax I and Chairwoman, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara
• Eva Hassett, Executive Director, International Institute of Buffalo

Location: Hotel Henry, Buffalo, NY

Presented By: Consulate General of Canada in NY and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Program Partners & Sponsors: ECIDA, U.S. Department of Commerce Buffalo Export Assistance Center

Join us one year after the U.S. Presidential election as Scott Miller discusses President Trump’s economic and trade policy agenda, and what’s ahead. Also, learn about WTCBN's accomplishments in 2017 and upcoming programs and events planned for 2018.

Keynote Speaker: Scott Miller, Senior Advisor and Scholl Chair in International Business, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)

Location: 500 Seneca Atrium, Buffalo, NY

Presenting Sponsor: Speed Global Services

Sponsors: Calamar, Columbus McKinnon Corporation, Conax Technologies, Dynabrade Inc., Eastman Machine Company, Hebeler Process Solutions, Lumsden McCormick LLP, Niagara Falls Bridge Comission, Rich Products Corporation, The Upstate New York District Export Council, The US Department of Commerce  and Western New York Foreign Trade Zone

Come and listen to small and medium-sized businesses with global aspirations pitch their business plans for an opportunity to win $10,000 in export shipping credit, as well as a World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara one-year membership, and $10,000 toward an advanced customer solution!

Listen to International subject matter experts share their insights.

Take part in the action by casting your vote. The winner of the audience vote will win a $500 export shipping credit.

Enjoy dinner and drinks at Giancarlo's Sicilian Steakhouse while networking after the winners are announced.

You won't want to miss this exciting evening of competition, education, networking and great food!

Seating is limited so RSVP TODAY!

Click here to apply for a chance to win $10,000!

Speakers: John Manzella, President & CEO, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and Ulla Bak, President, BAK USA 

Contest Judges: Peter Coleman, Executive Director, Buffalo Niagara Manufacturing Alliance; Jack McGowan, Project Manager, Insyte Consulting and Director, Western New York Venture Association/Buffalo Angels; Patrick Whalen, Director, Niagara Global Tourism Institute with additional judges TBA.

Location: Giancarlo's, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: UPS

China's rapid development and Sino-American relations have a direct impact on the lives of just about everyone in the United States. CHINA Town Hall: Local Connections, National Reflections is a national day of programming designed to provide Americans across the United States and beyond the opportunity to discuss issues with leading experts.

The CHINA Town Hall will take place on October 24, 2017 and will feature Ambassador Susan E. Rice as the national webcast speaker.

Speakers: Michael Crowley, Founder & Executive Director, US-China Center for Advanced Technology Venture Creation; Zhiqiang Liu, PhD, Director, UB Confucius Institute; John Manzella, President & CEO, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (in-person) and Ambassador Susan E. Rice (via live webcast) with additional speakers TBA.

Location: Buffalo Niagara Marriott, Amherst, NY

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations, the Erie County Industrial Development Agency, the UB Confucius Institute and the U.S. Department of Commerce Buffalo Export Assistance Center

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, in collaboration with our partners, present a program on international trade finance.

Attendees with learn about trade finance, resources available at the local, state and national level, and strategies designed to reduce risk and boost global sales.

Attendees can schedule one-on-one meetings or find out more information about grants, loans and other cost-saving programs from the following resources and organizations:

• Erie County Industrial Development Agency
• Export Import Bank of the U.S.
• Global New York, Empire State Development
• M&T Bank
• Trade Credit Insurance Agency
• U.S. Small Business Administration
• U.S. Department of Commerce

Location: Barton Room, Larkin at Exchange, Buffalo, NY

Program Partners: The Erie County Industrial Development Agency, ExIm Bank, The U.S. Department of Commerce and the The U.S. Small Business Association

Due to popular demand, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is excited to bring back our Global Business Administration program this fall. The six week program provides critical knowledge that empowers participants to take their companies global. From beginners interested in exporting or seasoned veterans seeking greater market share abroad, this invaluable program will help local companies increase revenue and mitigate risks.

Registration includes materials, 1 year of WTCBN membership (for non-members), company case study consultation, the option to be paired with a graduate-level intern for project research and Trade Expert accreditation upon course completion.

After completing the program, company participants will know how to identify the “right” foreign markets, and understand foreign entry and expansion strategies, supply chain issues, trade finance, export controls, legal aspects of trade, how to conduct market research, and much more.

Program Sponsors: Erie County Industrial Development Agency, M&T Bank 

Location: ECIDA, Buffalo, NY

We are living in a time of exponential change. We are bombarded by a fire hose of new information each and every day. The speed at which businesses must react to new opportunities, changing market conditions and evolving technologies is increasing daily. Although some industries are changing quicker than others, there is no question that all businesses are being affected. You really have two choices. Adapt or Die! Join us as we talk with three Western New York companies that have successfully negotiated this “minefield” of change. Learn how these businesses have confronted their industry’s challenges, innovated, and continue to evolve and grow their businesses moving forward.

Panelists: Laurie Irish-Jones, CEO, Irish Companies; Gerald J. Hace, President, Gooding Co. Inc.; and Larry Webster, CEO, Upstate Farms. 

Moderator: Thomas R. Ulbrich, Executive Director, University at Buffalo School of Management, Assistant Dean, Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

Location: Burchfield Penny Art Center, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: 15 Fingers, Escape Wire Solutions, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

The focus of this year’s World Trade Celebration will be on the importance of international business, potential trade policy changes on the horizon, and how FedEx is expanding globally while navigating the risks ahead. World Trade Celebration also includes a gala networking reception which will feature an opportunity for companies involved in international trade to showcase thier organization and initiatives to our international business audience.

Markets outside the United States represent 80 percent of global purchasing power, 92 percent of economic growth, and 95 percent of consumers. As a result, international trade has become an increasingly important generator of American corporate and economic growth. And it now supports more than 1 in 5 U.S. jobs. But today, the benefits of trade are being questioned and open markets are being challenged.

Keynote Speaker: Ralph Carter, Managing Director, Legal, Trade & International Affairs, FedEx Express

Location: Hyatt Regency, Buffalo, NY

What Does a Trump or Clinton Presidency Mean for Global Business?

Uncertainty caused by Brexit, China and other factors have prevented companies from making investment decisions. And not knowing the next American President’s policies has further complicated corporate America’s ability to plan for the future.

Join us on November 10, two days after the Presidential election, to hear one of America’s top experts explain:

• What trade policies likely are ahead
• The importance of trade
• How misinformation has become reality

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, and its host Daemen College, are excited to announce that John Murphy, Senior Vice President for International Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, will be our 2016 Annual Meeting & Reception keynote speaker.

Also, learn about WTCBN's accomplishments in 2016 and upcoming programs and events planned for 2017. 

Keynote Speaker: John Murphy, Senior Vice President for International Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Location: Daemen College, Amhesrt, NY

Event Sponsors: Calamar, Calspan Corporation, Dynabrade, Eastman Machine Company, Lumsden & McCormick LLP and Manzella Marketing 

A candid conversation with two CEOs that have built successful businesses by putting their people first.

Speakers: Scott Bieler, President & CEO West Herr Automotive Group and Michael Modrzynski, President, Allied Mechanical, Inc. Moderated by: Thomas R. Ulbrich, Executive Director, University at Buffalo School of Management, Assistant Dean, Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

Location: Burchfield Penny Art Center, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: 15 Fingers, Escape Wire Solutions, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Topic: Presented by Global New York, Empire State Development in partnership with the World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, The Buffalo Niagara Partnership and the U.S. Department of Commerce.

An average of US$23 billion is recorded in export sales to Europe each month.  About half of New York’s top trading partners belong to the European Union.   Learn how you can begin to export your products or services to this market or what New York State can do to help you expand there.  Meet Terry Potter, Senior Project Manager at Global NY’s European Office at several events around New York State.  

Location: The Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Buffalo, NY

China's rapid development and Sino-American relations have a direct impact on the lives of just about everyone in the United States. CHINA Town Hall: Local Connections, National Reflections, is a national day of programming designed to provide Americans across the United States and beyond the opportunity to discuss issues in the relationship with leading experts. The tenth annual CHINA Town Hall will take place on October 18, 2016 and will feature Dr. Henry A. Kissinger as the national webcast speaker.

Speakers: William Gisel, President and CEO Rich Products Corporation (in-person) and Dr. Henry Kissinger (via live webcast) with additional speakers TBA.

Location: Salvatore's Italian Gardens, Buffalo, NY

Program Partners: The National Committee on U.S. - China Relations, Rich Products Corporation, U.S. Department of Commerce, University at Buffalo Asian Studies Program and HSBC Center for Global Business Leadership, School of Management, University at Buffalo.

Join the largest gathering of executives and senior leaders from New York State’s bioscience and medical technology (Bio/Med) industry for MEDTECH 2016 "Innovation Impact: Keeping New York’s Finger on the Pulse." 

Change remains constant for the bioscience and medical technology (Bio/Med) industry. Stakeholders are consistently making real-time adjustments to established plans to maintain the slightest competitive differentiation. New York companies are at the forefront of innovation in this ever-evolving healthcare system. Topics like the fluctuating international market, user experience and building a multi-generational workforce continue to influence how companies innovate. With the upcoming Presidential election, healthcare again takes center stage. While the outcome of the election remains unknown, New York must continue to keep its finger on the pulse or risk being left behind.

Discover first-hand how to effectively innovate and what the upcoming election means to the Bio/Med industry through:

• thought-provoking keynotes from industry leaders and political analysts;
• interactive panel discussions, including an exclusive Collaboration & Growth Track;
• and opportunities for networking and partnerships featuring a Tech Showcase.

Location: Hilton Albany, 40 Lodge St, Albany, NY 12207

WTCBN Members receive a 10% discount on non-Medtech Member registration, use code Impact_2016 to receive the discounted rate.

Join the largest gathering of executives and senior leaders from New York State’s bioscience and medical technology (Bio/Med) industry for MEDTECH 2017 "DisruptNY: Harnessing the Power of Partnership.”

Buffalo is a shining example of an American city- reborn in a progressive way, driven by advanced technology industries like Bio/Med and forged through a shared vision of partnership and proactive change. These partnerships have allowed organizations to harness the power of collective brainstorming and intellect while providing a springboard for innovation.

The shift to a value-based healthcare system has not only disrupted the marketplace but also reinvigorated a region and produced noticeable growth. The concentration of life sciences companies on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus has tripled to 47, accounting for almost 1/3 of overall tenants, while nearly 40% of 43North winners in the past three years are life sciences companies. These unique crossovers are being embraced by agile startups and established companies’ alike, rapidly propelling traditional healthcare into a new age of advancement and investment.

Discover first-hand how disruption and innovative partnering can transform and drive growth in the Bio/Med industry through:

• Thought-provoking keynotes from industry leaders with tracks including Innovation & Technology; Regulatory & Policy and an exclusive Startup track;
• Interactive panel discussions including an exclusive innovation workshop and Collaboration and Growth track;
• And opportunities for networking and partnerships featuring a Tech Showcase.

Location: Hyatt Regency Buffalo, Two Fountain Plaza, Buffalo, NY

WTCBN Members receive a 10% discount on non-Medtech Member registration, use code DISTRUPT_2017 to receive the discounted rate.

World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) 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.

Day 1: ESSENTIALS OF US EXPORT CONTROLS: This intensive, one-day program will cover the key information you need to know to comply with the Export Administration Regulations. This program will consist of information regarding items and activities that are subject to the EAR, methods of determining which items require the use of a license to export, discussions about prohibitions, the use of license exceptions, license application and supporting documentation, export clearance procedures and recordkeeping requirements, and real life application of this information. Counseling and other professionals from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) will cover the major elements of the U.S. export control system for commercial exports. This fast-paced program is ideal for those with busy schedules.

Day 2: HOW TO DEVELOP AN EXPORT MANAGEMENT & COMPLIANCE PROGRAM (EMCP): Developing and maintaining an export management and compliance program is highly recommended to ensure that export transactions comply with the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and to prevent export control violations. This one-day workshop provides an overview of the steps a company may take to implement an internal Export Management & Compliance Program. Agenda topics include guidance on how to establish an EMCP, strategies to improve your company’s compliance program, how to avoid common compliance errors, and how to build a solid framework for your company’s compliance program. This program includes small group discussion, hands on exercises, and compliance peer networking. This program will be led by senior export compliance specialists from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). Although some knowledge of export controls is useful, this course is designed to inform you of the administrative practices needed to adhere to the EAR which are discussed during the Essentials of US Export Controls seminar offered on Day 1. NOTE: The information presented in this program is not a legal requirement of the EAR. It is intended to give informational advice and guidance based on industry best practices in the field of compliance.

Instructors: The instructors are experienced export policy specialist personnel from BIS' Washington, D.C. headquarters. The instructors will be available throughout the seminar to answer your questions on how the export regulations affect the export activities of your organization or client.

Location: Salvatore's Italian Gardens, Buffalo, NY

Due to popular demand, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara (WTCBN) is excited to bring back our Global Business Administration program this fall. The six week program provides critical knowledge that empowers participants to take their companies global. From beginners interested in exporting or seasoned veterans seeking greater market share abroad, this invaluable program will help local companies increase revenue and mitigate dangerous risks.

Registration includes materials, WTCBN membership, company case study consultation, the option to be paired with a graduate-level intern for project research and Trade Expert (TE) accreditation upon course completion.

After completing the program, company participants will learn how to identify the “right” foreign markets, and understand foreign entry and expansion strategies, supply chain issues, trade finance, export controls, legal aspects of trade, how to conduct market research, and much more.

Location: ECIDA, Buffalo, NY

International trade has generated tremendous economic benefits for our region and North America. But today, open markets are being challenged in ways not seen since the 1930s. Is this a threat to our way of life? Join us for World Trade Celebration 2016, the region's largest international business networking event of the year. 

Keynote Speaker: William C. Lane, former Global Director of Government Affairs, Caterpillar Inc.

Location: Buffalo RiverWorks, Buffalo, NY

Topic: A fun trivia game in support of the International Institute of Buffalo 

Location: TBA, Buffalo. NY

Presented by: The International Institute of Buffalo

Experience the manufacturing revolution and witness first-hand the work of our region's leading business experts and innovators. 

Located in Buffalo's medical corridor, Buffalo Manufacturing Works helps innovation-driven organizations excel by partnershing with thier internal manufacturing, engineering and R&D teams to deliver better products, grow and compete. Join us for a tour of the growing facilities and meet members of the Buffalo Manufacturing Works Founders Council who will be on-hand to share thier experiences with attendees.

Location: Buffalo Manufacturing Works, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: 15 Fingers, Escape Wire Solutions, Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Presented by Mohawk Global Trade Advisors - Learn what it takes to set up a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) and why it might be worth it for your company to take the plunge.

You will learn

• the different types of FTZs, including general purpose zones and subzones
• the benefits of using an FTZ if you’re a high volume importer or manufacturer of goods using imported parts
• how to calculate the savings that could can be derived from an FTZ
• what you can and can’t do with an FTZ
• how to set up an FTZ
• what it costs to establish an FTZ
• the parties involved in an FTZ (grantee, operator, FTZ board, etc.) and the role each one plays

Welke Customs Brokers USA will sponsor an educational forum, "Doing Business with Cuba: The Landscape Today and Expectations". The event, co-sponsored by Greater Rochester Enterprise, Genesee County Economic Development Center and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, is free and open to companies with interest in exporting to Cuba.

Speakers: Damon Piatek, President & CEO, Welke Customs Brokers USA; Alexandra López-Casero, Partner, Nixon Peabody LLP;  Kevin Ellis, CEO of Cayuga Milk Products

Location: Genesee County Economic Development Center Innovation Zone, Batavia, NY

Join us for WTCBN’s 2015 Traders Series which will focus on regions that are of interest to companies in the Buffalo Niagara region. The series will highlight best practices for doing business in these regions based on the experience of market experts. The three-part series will explore Turkey, China and India highlighting best practices and lessons learned utilizing the know-how of companies who have navigated these markets.

Speaker: Sandhya Mehta, Partner, Phillips Lytle LLP and Scott Stenclik, President, Superior Group

Location: Phillips Lytle LLP, Buffalo, NY

Sponsored by: Phillips Lytle LLP and The U.S. Department of Commerce

What began as the “Buffalo Billion” and 43North business competition is now a movement setting the foundation for the new economy in the Buffalo Niagara region. Public and private partnerships, new angel and institutional investors, a burgeoning medical campus and multiple examples of start-ups reaching the big leagues demonstrate that what once was a vision has now translated into reality. Join us for a discussion about why entrepreneurial resurgence is important to existing companies and service providers, and the critical role it plays in retaining the region’s growing population of new millennials.

Panelists: Theo Balbach, Chief Executive Officer, Coach Me Plus; John Gavigan, Eecutive Director, 43North; Paul Harder, Chief Executive Officer, Clinical Suppport Services and Wayne Mertz, Entrepreneur & Investor; Moderated by Patrick Whalen

Location: Burchfield Penny Art Center, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel, LLP, Escape Wire Solutions, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, The Kamis Group, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Topic: Join WTCBN and our Members for cocktails, networking and an overview of WTCBN's accomplishments in the past year including new programs, members and upcoming programs for 2016.

Featuring Keynote Presentation by John Manzella, Editor-in-Chief, The Manzella Report:

Global Trends, Critical Issues and Challenges Ahead

American companies face daunting challenges ahead. Global trends and critical issues are impacting the U.S. economy, manufacturing, labor force, unemployment, energy, backshoring, investment attraction, and site selection. Combined with the impact of a volatile and rapidly changing China, these issues are shaping our future. What does this mean to the United States and your business? This presentation answers these questions, reveals global dangers, forecasts what’s ahead, and provides essential survival strategies necessary to compete in the future.

Location: Templeton Landing, Buffalo, NY

Sponsored by: Calamar, Columbus McKinnon Corporation, M&T Bank and Phillips Lytle LLP

Join us for a program on International Trade Finance. Attendees will learn about the financial resources that are available to assist them with international sales growth and transactions. This program will also include a 2016 International Economic Outlook.

Speakers: Erin Cole, Senior Vice President, Global New York, Empire State Development; Patrick Hayes, International Trade Finance Manager, SBA Export Solutions Groups; Gerald Manhard, Chief Lending Officer, ECIDA; Benjamin Rand, President, Insyte Consulting; John Vilardo, Vice President, International Trade Finance Group M&T Bank

Location: Big Ditch Brewing Company Tap Room, Buffalo, NY

Program Partners: The Erie County Industrial Development Agency, The U.S. Department of Commerce and the The U.S. Small Business Association

Join us for WTCBN’s 2015 Traders Series which will focus on regions that are of interest to companies in the Buffalo Niagara region. The series will highlight best practices for doing business in these regions based on the experience of market experts. The three-part series will explore Turkey, China and India highlighting best practices and lessons learned utilizing the know-how of companies who have navigated these markets.

This program will include a panel discussion on Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) in the United States.

Speakers: Robert Rubin, Secretary of the Treasury under President Bill Clinton; Sheldon Day, Mayor, Thomasville, Alabama; Daniel Rosen, Founding Partner, Rhodium Group; and Stephen Orlins, President, National Committee on U.S.-China Relations; John Thomas, Professor, School of Management, University at Buffalo; TBD, Hong Kong Trade Development Council with additional speakers TBA.

Location: Salvatore's Italian Gardens, Buffalo, NY

Sponsored by: The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, Phillips Lytle LLP and The U.S. Department of Commerce

A six week program to learn the necessary tools to take your company into the global marketplace. Includes Materials, WTCBN Membership, Company Case Study Consultation and Trade Expert (TE) accreditation upon course completion.

Join us for WTCBN’s 2015 Traders Series which will focus on regions that are of interest to companies in the Buffalo Niagara region. The series will highlight best practices for doing business in these regions based on the experience of market experts. The three-part series will explore Turkey, China and India highlighting best practices and lessons learned utilizing the know-how of companies who have navigated these markets.

Speaker: Mustafa Ilbeyli, Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Turkey (ISPAT), Trevor Stevenson and James Resetar, Eastman Machine Company and Linda Huang, Rich Products Corporation

Location: Templeton Landing, Buffalo, NY

Sponsored by: Phillips Lytle LLP and The U.S. Department of Commerce

Join World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for our Summer Member Appreciation Party. This event is an opportunity for members of World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara to connect in a casual atmosphere over light refreshments while enjoying a beautiful summer in Western New York. This is also an overall great networking event. In attendance will be WTCBN staff, Board of Directors and Members of World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara from Western New York and southern Ontario, Canada.

Location: The Filling Station, Larkin Square, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: Calamar

The new face of America’s workforce plays by a different set of rules. How do you attract, motivate, and engage the upcoming workforce to generate tangible results? How do you gain a competitive advantage through hyper-connected employees? What programs and activities are proving most effective? Join our panelists for an in depth discussion as they present case studies and explore the various approaches your company can take to maximize the value from today’s employee.

Speakers: Bill Cleary, Director of Human Resources, Dunn Tire, Steve Davis, VP, Tapecon, David Nasca, President & CEO, Evans Bancorp and Trevor Stevenson, VP Techinical Service & Product Development, Eastman Machine Company 

Location: Burchfield Penny Art Center, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel, LLP, Escape Wire Solutions, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, The Kamis Group, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Celebrate the positive impact of international trade in our binational region. Join us for World Trade Celebration 2015, the Buffalo-Niagara business community’s largest networking event of the year. Learn how to maximize green practices and profits while gaining insight into how your peers are succeeding in global markets.

The focus of this year’s World Trade Celebration is Global Sustainability, a crucial concern for both organizations and individuals. The event will begin with a luncheon panel featuring local companies’ sustainability efforts followed by topic-specific breakout sessions. This will culminate to the evening program which includes a lively trade expo, B2B networking and our keynote presentation.

Keynote Speakers: William L. Thomas, Global Head Technology and Services Sustainability, HSBC Bank Plc. and Art Ghose, CEO, Curbell Inc.

Location: Conference and Event Center Niagara Falls, NY

Sponsorships available - Contact us for more information on how you can highlight your sustainability efforts at our event.

Topic: A fun trivia game in support of the International Institute of Buffalo 

Location: Montante Cultural Center, Canisius College, Buffalo. NY

Presented by: The International Institute of Buffalo, Canisius College and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

When doing business outside of the United States, there are many factors that can make or break a business deal—making a cultural faux pas is one of them.  Educating yourself on your business contact’s culture is always a sign of respect.  Join us for this interactive, informative program highlighting verbal communication, body language, and other cultural aspects to be aware of when doing business in China. 

Speakers: Scott Bass, Advanced Language Translation, May Shogan, International Institute of Buffalo, Lingling Chen, Rich Products Corporation

Location: Buffalo Manufacturing Works, Buffalo, NY

Event Partners: Advanced Language Translation, The International Institute of Buffalo

It's been 20 years since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has been in place between Canada, Mexico and the United States. Learn how NAFTA has changed over time specific to trade between Canada and the U.S.. This program will take an in-depth look on technical aspects, immigration of tradesmen, transportation and logistics and current market opportunities under NAFTA specific to Canada.

Speakers: John F. Prato, Consul General of Canada in New York, Jack Ampuja, President, Supply Chain Optimizers, Erin Cole, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, Tim Clutterbuck, President, ASW Steel Inc., Chantal Desloges, Principal, Chantal Desloges Corporation, Shakir Farsakh, Deputy Principal Commercial Officer, U.S. Consulate in Toronto, U.S. Department of Commerce, Jim Trubits, Vice President of Business Development, Mohawk Global Trade Advisors, Michael Watts, Immigration Program Manager, Consulate General of Canada in New York, Additional Speakers TBA

Location: Burgundy Basin, Pittsford, NY

Sponsored by: Calamar, The Consulate General of Canada in New York, Phillips Lytle LLP and The U.S. Department of Commerce

It's been 20 years since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has been in place between Canada, Mexico and the United States. Learn how NAFTA has changed over time specific to trade between Canada and the the United States. Is your company taking advantage of it? This half-day program will focus on U.S. Canada trade and include an in-depth review of the technical aspects, non-immigrant tradesmen issues, transportation and logistics and current market opportunities under NAFTA specific to Canada.

Speakers: John F. Prato, Consul General of Canada in New York, Jack Ampuja, President, Supply Chain Optimizers, Erin Cole, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara, Tim Clutterbuck, President, ASW Steel Inc., Shakir Farsakh, Deputy Principal Commercial Officer, U.S. Consulate in Toronto, U.S. Department of Commerce, Eric Schultz, Of Counsel, Hiscock & BarclayLLP, Jim Trubits, Vice President of Business Development, Mohawk Global Trade Advisors, Michael Watts, Immigration Program Manager, Consulate General of Canada in New York, Additional Speakers TBA

Location: Templeton Landing, Buffalo, NY

Sponsored by: Calamar, The Consulate General of Canada in New York, Phillips Lytle LLP and The U.S. Department of Commerce

• Customs Trade Transformation (CBP regulattion re-write) and what it means for compliance
• How to make compliance work for you
• Trade agreements benefits
• How to mitigate risk in your Import and Export procedures

In addition, attendees will receive important information about ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Topic: This program featured a presentation on a new innovative technology for the industrial gas industry being developed by Praxair, Inc. using local resources with global implications for the finished product. In addition attendees received more information on Buffalo Manufacturing Works and the technical resources and services that will be available from EWI. An exclusive tour of Buffalo Manufacturing Works was included with the event.

Speaker: Sean Kelly, R&D Director: OTM Systems, Praxair, Inc.

Location: d!g, The Innovation Center at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Buffalo, NY

Presented By: EWI New York and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Sponsors: Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Columbus McKinnon Corporation, Hodgson Russ LLP, d!g and the US Department of Commerce Buffalo Export Assistance Center

Topic: An event to assist and update companies who are either currently exporting or interested their medical device products to China. Attendees will learn about the current state of the Chinese Healthcare Market, market trends for medical device companies in China, advice on how to overcome trade barriers and updates from the September 2014 Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade (JCCT) Meeting.

Speakers: Angela Han, Commercial Specialist, U.S. Department of Commerce, Guangzhou, China and Richard Paddock, Director, Medical Devices, International Trade Administration

Program Partners: Genesee County EDC, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, Medtech and Reed Exhibitions

Topic: An overview of WTCBN's accomplishments in the past year including introduction of new President, Erin Cole. Hear Timothy Tevens, CEO and President of Columbus McKinnon speak on this local manufacturing company's international operations.

Speakers: Timothy Tevens, President & CEO, Columbus McKinnon Corporation and Erin Cole, President, World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Location: d!g, The Innovation Center at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: M&T Bank, The Consulate General of Canada in New York and Dynabrade Inc.

A six week program to learn the necessary tools to take your company into the global marketplace. Includes Materials, WTCBN Membership, Company Case Study Consultation and Trade Expert (TE) accreditation upon course completion.

Topic: Learn more about the "secret window" initiative aimed at reducing supply chain barriers by simplifying filing processes and eliminating duplicative requirements in order to allow companies to do international business with more ease.

Location: 726 Exchange Street, Suite 402, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: The Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Patrol Agency, The U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Senator for NY Kirsten Gillibrand’s Office and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Topic: This seminar will explain the benefits of the Foreign Trade Zone program and how it can help companies be globally competitive. This is a great opportunity for area companies to learn about the Foreign-Trade Zone program and understand how it can save them money by streamlining their global supply chain. Hear first-hand from companies currently using the FTZ and learn about FTZ basics, benefits of the program, the application and activation process, and compliance.

Speakers: Laurie Ritter, International Trade Advisor, Lexim Trade Services, Patrick Moran, Vice President, Starline, Inc. and Joe Berti, Vice President, Speed Global Services

Location: 5th Floor, 95 Perry Street, Buffalo, NY

Sponsored By: Erie County Economic Development Corporation

Topic: Learn about workforce development, automation, new product development, global distribution, funding streams, first to market, best practices and lessons learned utilizing the know-how of EWI and companies who have successfully navigated these processes. The overall arching theme of this event will be new market development and export successes.

Speakers: Michael Ulbrich, President, EWI New York Operations and Ron Brown Technology Leader Flexible Automation, EWI

Location: d!g, The Innovation Center at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Buffalo, NY

Presented By: EWI New York and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Sponsors: Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Columbus McKinnon Corporation, Hodgson Russ LLP, d!g and the US Department of Commerce Buffalo Export Assistance Center

Topic: Learn how the Government of Canada buys goods and services; access resources and tools available to suppliers and learn how to prepare to do business with the Federal Government of Canada

Speakers: Carolyn Landry, Regional Director, Public Works and Government Services Canada and Lucy Cicero Latka, Sr. Commercial Specialist, US Department of Commerce

Location: 130 South Elmwood Ave, Suite 423, Buffalo, NY

Presented by: US Department of Commerce, Buffalo Export Assistance Center, Upstate New York District Export Council and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Topic: Learn about registering your products to meet regional standards and strategically planning your product with the potential to sell globally.

Speaker: John Riggi, Director Quality, Baxter International

Location: The Buffalo Club, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: M&T Bank, Columbus McKinnon, US Department of Commerce, Buffalo Export Assistance Center

Topic: Attendees met new WTCBN President Erin Cole and for a fun, free networking event for WTCBN Members.

Location: Soho Burger Bar, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: Dynabrade Inc., Koike Aronson, Inc. and Speed Global Services 

Topic: A fun trivia game in support of the International Institute of Buffalo 

Location: Montante Cultural Center, Canisius College, Buffalo. NY

Presented by: The International Institute of Buffalo, Canisius College and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Speakers: Tom McManus, CEO, Kegworks, Ethan Cox, President & Co-Founder, Community Beerworks, Ted Hawley, Founder, New York Craft Malt, Tim Herzog, Founder, Flying Bison Brewery, Dan Robinson, Craft Import Beer Manager, Try-It Distributing Co.,Inc.

Location: Burchfield Penny Art Center

Presented by: Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel, LLP, Escape Wire Solutions, Lumsden & McCormick, LLP, Insyte Consulting, Vanner Insurance Agency, UB School of Management and World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara

Topic: Learn how OGSI goes through their process of dealing with various regulatory controls and learn best practices in exporting your products internationally.
Speaker: Robert Schlehr, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Oxygen Generating Systems International (OGSI)

Location: The Buffalo Club, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: M&T Bank, Columbus McKinnon, US Department of Commerce, Buffalo Export Assistance Center

Topic: Hear About the State of Manufacturing, International and the Region for 2014

Speaker: Gary Keith, VP, Regional Economist, M&T Bank

Location: Salvatore's Italian Garden's, Depew, NY

Topic: Take full advantage of your website to attract and retain new international customers and make more export sales. This timely "how to" seminar is on best practices for increasing international sales.

Presented By: U.S. Department of Commerce with supporting organizations: District Export Council. WTCBN, Niagara County Center for Economic Development, Niagara County Community College Small Business Development Center

Speakers: Andrea Klyczek, Niagara County IDA, Brian Buff, President, Site Seeker,TBD, T-Mark International, Scott Bass,President, Advanced Language Translation, Rosanna Masucci, USDOC Export Assistant Center, Lynn Oswald, Niagara County Small Business Development Center.

Location: NCIDA Vantage Center, Sanborn NY

Topic: Learn about processes and procedures companies can follow to maintain compliance and avoid costly fees and fines that can result from overlooking small details in your export process.

Speaker: Steven Briggs, International Sales Director, Dynabrade 

Location: The Buffalo Club, Buffalo, NY

Sponsors: M&T Bank, Columbus McKinnon, US Department of Commerce, Buffalo Export Assistance Center