A program developed three years ago to provide financial assistance to New Hampshire businesses exploring global markets is now open to potential exporters around the region.
Courtesy US Commercial Service
Due to its success, the New Hampshire Export Expansion Fund (EEF) is now the New England Export Expansion Fund covering New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine and Vermont. Through a partnership with The Provident Bank, the Granite State District Export Council, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and partners throughout New England, businesses across the region will now have the opportunity to receive financial assistance to expand sales to global markets.
The New Hampshire Office of International Commerce continues to be a key partner and driver of this export promotion grant program.
If the EEF program sounds familiar then that’s because it’s been around since 2014 assisting companies with international growth.
“Since its inception, New Hampshire companies have used the EEF over 60 times to support their international business development activities in over 20 markets,” said Tina Kasim, program manager of the New Hampshire Office of International Commerce. “We’re excited to see its continued growth through the partnership of The Provident Bank and we look forward to continuing our work with New Hampshire’s exporters to grow their international presence.”
Qualifying businesses can use EFF funds, via indirect grants, to take advantage of the many services provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Commercial Service. With these programs, businesses looking to expand their market reach overseas can use the funds to cover costs of due diligence on and even meeting with identified partners.
The EEF program is open to qualifying New Hampshire companies with 1,500 employees or less in their state’s location. Although the program aims to concentrate on manufacturing companies, services companies, including educational institutions, travel and tourism, engineering and other service companies, may also qualify.
With the New England Export Expansion Fund, the world is open for business. If your company is looking to expand internationally, we encourage you to contact OIC at 603.271.8444 or the New Hampshire Export Assistance Center/U.S. Commercial Service at 603.610.2417.
Nathaniel Nelson
International Trade Officer
Office of International Commerce