Two centers open to help Whatcom businesses with exporting

The Washington Small Business Development Center's two export readiness centers are now open and ready to assist Washington businesses ­- including those in Whatcom County - to expand their export capabilities; the centers are located in South Seattle and on the Riverpoint campus in Spokane.

Through the Western Washington University SBDC located in downtown Bellingham, Whatcom County businesses can take advantage of a number of services to assist with export planning from these centers. There are four export business advisors available to meet with local businesses who are interested in reaching international markets.

Joseph Vogel, an SBDC trade specialist focused on Whatcom County, has 40 years of international business experience with emphasis on international market entry, export channel management, customer service, and project management with a focus on South America. He is currently working with a number of businesses in Whatcom County.