The UK currently exports £600 billion worth of goods and services, but only 1 in 10 companies export, while 1 in 7 UK firms (with £500k+ turnover) has a product or service that could be exported but is not.
The Department for International Trade is committed to helping UK businesses seize trade opportunities, and is promoting a new export strategy - ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’. Read more here, or find out some of the ways your business can benefit.
Enrol in the Export Academy
The Export Academy is a free, comprehensive training offer for UK businesses to learn how to sell to customers and secure contracts around the world. The academy includes a foundation course and market access events as well as sector-specific webinars, masterclasses and virtual missions.
The Export Academy is open to any business in the UK with a product or service that can be sold internationally.
Sign up here: www.events.great.gov.uk/exportacademy
Take advantage of the DIT Export Support Service
UK businesses can get answers to practical questions about exporting to Europe by accessing cross-government information and support all in once place. The service will expand to cover more global markets in the coming months.
From queries around rules of origin, to guidance on recognising professional qualifications and entering new markets, the Export Support Service provides a single point of contact. It also helps UK businesses navigate other government services and DIT’s wider package of support for exporters.
Call the helpline 0300 303 8955 or use the digital service: https://www.gov.uk/ask-export-support-team
Apply for funding from the Internationalisation Fund
The £38 million Internationalisation Fund provides match funding to SMEs seeking to overcome barriers to access new international markets. Match funding of between £1,000 and £9,000 is available for SMEs to access 3rd party expertise, to overcome barriers and access new International trade Markets. Funding may also support exhibiting at Trade Fairs, Trade Missions and independent market visits. Funding is available at the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) level, with £319,219 still available for the Heart of the South West region.
Applications close on 31 December 2022. Check if your business might be eligible here: https://www.great.gov.uk/campaigns/internationalisation-fund-for-englis…
Contact the South West trade team by telephone (01275 370 944) or email (ditsw@mobile.trade.gov.uk) to find out more.
Receive financial support from UK Export Finance
UK Export Finance’s mission is to ensure that no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance. UKEF can support businesses with export insurance policies, working capital loans to enable businesses to take on contracts, and buyer finance to provide attractive financing terms to buyers.
Find out more here: https://www.great.gov.uk/get-finance/
Get help with selling online here
Let the Department for International Trade help you export your products to consumers around the world through online marketplaces.
Get free support from E-commerce advisors and connect to international marketplaces with reduced commission rates.