Rep. Rick Larsen to speak at Jump Start Washington Exports Program kick-off March 22 in Bellingham

Want to learn about export opportunities and resources at the federal, state and local levels?

Western Washington University’s College of Business and Economics’ Center for Economic Vitality (CEV), U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, Washington State Department of Commerce, and the Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce and Industry are collaborating to kick-off the Jump Start Washington Exports (JustWaEx) Program from 1:30- 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 22, at the Squalicum Boathouse, 2600 Harbor Loop, in Bellingham.

There is no charge to attend; RSVP is encouraged by calling (360) 733-4014, ext. 100 or via e-mail at info@cevforbusiness.com.

All businesses throughout Washington state that are interested in exporting are invited to attend. Larsen will discuss federal export initiatives and resources and the importance of exports to the regional economy.

Tom Dorr, CEV director, will introduce the Jump Start Washington Exports program and describe how it will help Washington businesses either start exporting or expand export markets.

“Jump Start Washington Exports brings targeted matchmaking and technical assistance to all Washington state businesses,” said Dorr. “From identifying foreign buyers with a special emphasis on B.C. and Canada to helping companies overcome roadblocks in international trade, this unique program is designed to help businesses grow, prosper, sustain, and create Washington state jobs.”

Jump Start Washington Exports is one of the special export programs funded by the Washington Department of Commerce. The export program includes no-cost confidential business counseling and match-making activities connecting foreign buyers directly with Washington state producers, with special emphasis on Canadian connections. It has been designed to support federal and state export initiatives now in place.

For more than 20 years, the Center for Economic Vitality (CEV) has enabled Western Washington University's College of Business and Economics to give back to the business community and has helped to shape the economic future of our region one business at a time.

The CEV provides free, confidential counseling and technical assistance combined with competitive intelligence research/economic gardening services, and export assistance to business owners and managers throughout Washington state. For more information, go to http://www.cevforbusiness.com or call (360) 733-4014.