Local Export Network providing support and opportunities - 8 January, 2007

The Sunraysia Mallee Economic Development Board (SMEDB) in conjunction with Blueprint Consulting Services today received a grant for $10,000 to establish the Mildura Region Export Network.

The Hon. Theo Theophanous, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Information and Communication Technology and Minister for Major Projects announced the grant as part of the Opening Doors to Export plan.

Andrew Millen, Chief Executive Officer of SMEDB said “The Mildura Region Export Network will provide a range of events over 2008 on topics such as getting started in exporting, risk management, freight and logistics, agency and distribution agreements and entering export awards.”

“The Mildura Region Export Network will also develop an electronic network to update exporters on opportunities, events and business success stories,” Mr Millen added. 

Outcomes of the Mildura Region Export Network include mentoring and assistance to new and current exporters, skills development and a cohesive local network.

The Mildura Region Export Network will build upon SMEDB and Blueprint Consulting Services activities and trade missions such as the Kunming Import and Export Trade Commodities Fair for which SMEDB received a grant of $35,000 through Regional Development Victoria's Trade Fairs & Missions Program for the June 2007 delegation.

The grant was provided to offset the costs incurred by participating businesses for freight, marketing material, translations, booth and equipment hire, printing, Austrade services and interpreters as well as for project management, dissemination of trade fair information and post-event follow up.

Andrew Millen, Chief Executive Officer of SMEDB says “The funding received from Regional Development Victoria shows the confidence they have in our ability to provide export opportunities for businesses in our region and recognises the work and outcomes received in China after two successful delegations.”

Representatives from Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, Mildura Tourism, AC & Co Pty Ltd, Central Victorian Organics Network and Neqtar Wines attended the Kunming Import & Export Fair.