Opportunities for smaller exporters to be highlighted at upcoming Export-Import Bank conference

Smaller exporters will be helped and honored at the upcoming Annual Conference of the Export-Import Bank of the United States. Ex-Im Bank is the federal agency that provides the guarantees and insurance needed to facilitate the commercial financing of exports.

At an awards luncheon at its upcoming Washington, DC Conference, Ex-Im will honor some of the nation’s top small business exporters. Later, panel discussions will provide updates on Ex-Im’s own new small business export financing products and those of other federal agencies. This is a great way to find out what types of financing might be available for your small exporting company!

This conference also will mark the beginning of a new era for commercial banks involved in export financing. Previously, banks could only approve six-month buyer financing without prior approval from Ex-Im. Starting with this conference, qualified banks will be able to offer up to seven-year buyer financing with that prior approval. This will greatly accelerate export financing for these transactions.

Other panels at the conference will look at prospects for U.S. exports to countries and regions of the world, including Africa, the Middle East, Turkey and Central Asia.

Another panel will highlight the booming “cleantech” market.

It all takes place on 17-18 April 2008, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC. First time small business participants can attend for only $135, including a full two-day program, two luncheons and a reception.

For more information, go to:

http://www.exim.gov/news/annualconf/2008/index.cfm