Trade Assistance
The Lynchburg Region can provide resources and connections for existing companies that are interested in exporting product.
Virginia Economic Development Partnership
VEDP’s International Trade programs provide direct support to Virginia companies committed to increasing their international export sales as a corporate growth strategy. Their services help companies identify potential new markets, develop market entry strategies, and locate possible distributors and representatives for products or services at little to no cost to the company.
VEDP’s International Trade Division currently provides the following programs and services to Virginia companies committed to increasing their international export sales as a corporate growth strategy:
Global Defense Program (GDP)
GDP helps Virginia’s defense companies diversify into new international markets. Eligible defense-related companies receive assistance with strategy, export compliance, matchmaking, translation, and market research. They also participate in vendor days with U.S. Combatant Commands overseas.
International Market Research
A global network of in-country consultants covering more than 75 countries delivers over 200 international market research reports to Virginia companies annually. These experts provide valuable in-country market research specific to each company’s product or service.
State Trade & Export Promotion (STEP) Grant
The STEP Grant is designed to increase the number of small businesses that export and raise the value of goods and services exported. The program is funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Trade Missions
VEDP conducts trade missions where Virginia companies travel internationally to meet face-to-face with potential customers. Meetings are prequalified based on a participating company’s export market objectives.
Trade Show Assistance Program
VEDP provides reimbursements, up to $10,000, to Virginia companies participating as exhibitors at international trade shows. To qualify for eligibility, the trade show must occur overseas or, if domestic, have a demonstrated international component. Companies may also choose to participate with VEDP at select international trade shows. Virginia’s booth provides the ideal base for co-exhibiting companies, allowing participants to exhibit products and services as well as network with prospective customers.
Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET)
VALET is a two-year international business acceleration program that offers a combination of capital resources provided by the Commonwealth and professional services from private-sector partners. Following a very thorough evaluation process, only 25 companies per year are accepted into the VALET program.
For more information on VEDP program contact:
Nathan Day, International Trade Manager Direct Phone: 540.387.2562 | Email | Website
Virginia Small Business Development Center
The Virginia Small Business Development Center’s International Business Development Program works with Virginia-based firms to enhance their global experience. Their certified global business professionals provide confidential counseling, training, and customized research to help companies mitigate risks, prioritize markets, identify financing, and grow export sales.
The Port of Virginia
Existing companies in the Lynchburg Region have convenient access to The Port of Virginia.
The Port of Virginia moves cargo through world-class facilities and transports to and from markets around the globe, carrying the goods and supplies that manufacturers, corporations, and individual consumers use in their everyday lives.
Between 2015 and 2025, the port will have invested $1.5 billion in its infrastructure, creating a network of six terminals that can handle any type of cargo. By 2024, the Port of Virginia will be the deepest port on the U.S. East Coast with 55’ channels and two-way traffic for the largest vessels calling our coast.
