Trade Commissioner Service connects with local businesses – SteinbachOnline.com

Steinbach Economic Development (SED) invited the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) to host an information session and connect with local businesses on Friday at the Mennonite Heritage Village.  

Presenters explained how small companies they can benefit from using the TCS, funding and support programs, and had a local business share how they began selling their products internationally using TCS’s CanExport program. 

Director of Economic Development, Michelle Bezditny says they used their network to invite local industries that may be considering exporting their product or service but are unsure where to start.  

“We’re able to carve out that relationship between the TCS and industries. So, it’s an entry-level conversation which could potentially expand to other opportunities. As Steinbach Economic Development, we support business growth and expansion. This is one opportunity for businesses to grow, to expand nationally and internationally and how that revenue brings money back into the community.” 

Director Michelle Bezditny opened the meeting by welcoming business owners and the TCS Representatives

Bezditny explains that SED invited a number of different small, medium, and large businesses from a variety of different sectors including manufacturing, apparel, and food production.  

“It really created that opportunity for the SMEs and the large businesses to not only connect with each other but to also connect with the trade commissioners and the trade commissioners that are here, they represent different sectors.” 

She adds, “We really were intentional about knowing who our business community is and really intentional about finding that value so that they come away from here building their network. Creating opportunities for growth and it may start here and we’re looking forward to other opportunities and other hosting other organizations, provincially, nationally and internationally.” 

Lynn & Lianna Designs started as a small family business out of Steinbach, and CEO and Co-Founder Melissa Funk says they have now worked with the Trade Commissioner Service for four years. 

“It’s something that’s helped us scale beyond our wildest dreams and help us reach into the international markets and put our feet into places like the UAE, Dubai, the UK, France, and Germany.” 

She says it is an incredible organization that is provided by the Canadian Government free of charge to small businesses. 

Lynn & Lianna charcuterie boards and resin accented serveware were selling successfully in North America, and they had the idea to try different markets like France. Funk says they were introduced to the TCS, and they helped the Lynn & Lianna team understand the global partnerships they could get involved with. 

“They helped us grow our business and helped us land a major deal with a retailer there, that’s how we started. And then from there, it has spiralled into a wonderful partnership where we’ve been able to stay in contact with 25-plus trade commissioners around the world and get them to know our story and our products. Over the years that turns into different opportunities that arise as they are in their own networks and circle.” 

The TCS also advised Funk on how to submit applications and help get funding approved. 

“They have introduced us to the CanExport program which gives you a certain amount of funding for your expansions and then it gives you 50% of that reimbursed to you, for your different travels and things that you need to do to grow that business.” 

She explains that every person on the team believed in their business, and she recommends reaching out to your local trade commissioner if you are interested in doing business overseas. 

“They are just so dedicated to helping other companies and small businesses grow and flourish, and so once they understand your story, they take that, and they run, and they are passionate about it. They treat it like their own business and then they want to see you succeed. And when you succeed, they personally celebrate with you. And it’s just such a wonderful partnership.”