Five Virginia Companies Accepted into Virginia’s Accessing International Markets Program

RICHMOND - The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) today announced the acceptance of five new companies into the Accessing International Markets (AIM) export development program. The program, launched by VEDP in December 2005, helps Virginia companies pursue international leads in a new market overseas and realize the benefits of exporting. Based on a competitive quarterly application process, 20 companies will be accepted into the AIM program each year.

The five Virginia companies selected to participate in the December 2006 AIM class include Gammapar in Forest, Bay Beyond in Melfa, American Hi-Tech in Norfolk, Speedtech in Sterling and PARI Respiratory Equipment in Midlothian. Markets to be pursued by current AIM participants include countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia.

In addition to valuable capital funding, market research and strategic counseling, the AIM program gives Virginia companies the opportunity to leverage private-sector professional service providers and VEDP-developed relationships around the world.

“The AIM Program jump-starts the development of international business by connecting companies with the practical tools needed for successful export sales,” said Elizabeth Morgan, AIM Program Manager. “AIM capital, public and private sector resources will be used to develop and implement a Market Access Plan (MAP) to help companies systematically sell overseas. The AIM MAP approach can be replicated in other markets once participants graduate from the one year AIM Program.”

To learn more about the benefits of the AIM program, or to learn how to apply for the March 2007 class, contact the AIM Program Manager at(804) 545 -5768 or visit the programs tab at www.ExportVirginia.org.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, a marketing organization, was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. The Partnership is a state authority, which is governed by a 21-member board of directors appointed by the Governor and the Virginia General Assembly. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion and international trade. VEDP has offices in Virginia, Germany, Hong Kong, Mexico, Brazil, Korea and Japan.