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 March 2007 AIM class include Air Systems Inc. in Chesapeake, Control Case in McLean, Northstar Express in Falls Church, Riggins Company in Hampton and Vaughan Furniture in Galax. Markets to be pursued by the new AIM participants include countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia.

The AIM program was developed to introduce companies across Virginia to new global business opportunities. Companies do not need to have export experience to participate in the AIM program, but must agree to visit their target export market prior to graduation. They must also agree to participate in quarterly seminars covering the basic steps of exporting.

“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 Brown, AIM Program Manager. “The VEDP looks forward to supporting these new companies as they develop and implement their international business strategies.”

Each AIM participant has access to $5,000 in capital funds available to offset approved export-related expenses. Each AIM participant also has access to seven private-sector export specialists who provide essential expertise for expansion into international markets. The seven AIM service providers include an attorney, a Web designer, a banker, a translator, a freight forwarder, a foreign regulations specialist and a U.S. export compliance specialist.

Applications for the June 2007 class are currently being reviewed and are due no later than May 1, 2007. To learn more about the benefits of the AIM program, please 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 within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion and international trade. VEDP has offices in Virginia, Belgium, Hong Kong, Mexico, Brazil, Korea and Japan.