Grow your business globally
By Adam
January 27, 2012
Small Business & Entrepreneurship
Share Facebook Tweet on Twitter Share with Email Share with LinkedIn Share with Pinterest
Are you thinking of growing globally? If you’re like thousands of other Canadian entrepreneurs, you may be drawn by the allure of international markets and the promise they hold for your business. If so, consider these top tips for finding global opportunities: 
Look beyond the United States For new exporters, the US can be an attractive market. After all, it’s close and culturally similar. However, it’s important to consider all options. Emerging markets, such as China, Brazil and India, can offer you a competitive advantage if you’re one of the first in your industry to establish a foothold. Similarly, other well-established markets may be just the right fit for your product or service.
Conduct thorough market research Be sure to base your target market decision on in-depth research. Investigate your list of markets and evaluate their potential based on market and import growth. Identify issues that may influence demand for your product or service and investigate any barriers to trade. Then, narrow down your list to one or two key markets.
Register with the Canadian Company Capabilities (CCC) database CCC is a powerful networking tool. The database lists 60,000 Canadian companies. Besides being a valuable marketing tool for your business, it allows you to connect with suppliers with exporting experience, buyers and distributors. You’ll also get access to public and private sector business opportunities. Check out www.ic.gc.ca/cdncc.
Enlist the help of the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service Register for the Virtual Trade Commissioner at www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca to get access to market and sector information, upcoming events and business leads. Tap into the network of Trade Commissioners in Canada and abroad for help with finding opportunities and qualified contacts in your target market.
Remember, the opportunities are out there. With a bit of legwork, you’ll find them!
By Nicole d'Entremont, small business owner. More information is available at www.CanadaBusiness.ca or by calling 1-888-576-4444 (TTY 1-800-457-8466).
Look beyond the United States For new exporters, the US can be an attractive market. After all, it’s close and culturally similar. However, it’s important to consider all options. Emerging markets, such as China, Brazil and India, can offer you a competitive advantage if you’re one of the first in your industry to establish a foothold. Similarly, other well-established markets may be just the right fit for your product or service.
Conduct thorough market research Be sure to base your target market decision on in-depth research. Investigate your list of markets and evaluate their potential based on market and import growth. Identify issues that may influence demand for your product or service and investigate any barriers to trade. Then, narrow down your list to one or two key markets.
Register with the Canadian Company Capabilities (CCC) database CCC is a powerful networking tool. The database lists 60,000 Canadian companies. Besides being a valuable marketing tool for your business, it allows you to connect with suppliers with exporting experience, buyers and distributors. You’ll also get access to public and private sector business opportunities. Check out www.ic.gc.ca/cdncc.
Enlist the help of the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service Register for the Virtual Trade Commissioner at www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca to get access to market and sector information, upcoming events and business leads. Tap into the network of Trade Commissioners in Canada and abroad for help with finding opportunities and qualified contacts in your target market.
Remember, the opportunities are out there. With a bit of legwork, you’ll find them!
By Nicole d'Entremont, small business owner. More information is available at www.CanadaBusiness.ca or by calling 1-888-576-4444 (TTY 1-800-457-8466).