Idaho Businesses: Unlock Global Markets with the World Trade Connect Accelerator Program
Ready to take your business beyond U.S. borders? A new opportunity is available to help Idaho businesses build the knowledge, strategy and connections needed to compete in international markets.
Did you know that 70% of the world's purchasing power exists outside the United States? For Idaho businesses looking to grow, international markets represent an opportunity to reach new customers, diversify revenue and build long-term business resilience.
The World Trade Connect Accelerator Program is designed to help businesses take that next step. This 10-week virtual program combines expert coaching, group training and self-paced online learning to help Idaho companies develop a practical export strategy and prepare for international growth.
Why Consider Exporting
Expanding into international markets isn't just for large corporations. Exporting can be a valuable growth strategy for businesses of all sizes, including small and mid-sized companies.
Consider these facts:
Small businesses are already exporting - 65% of U.S. exporters have fewer than 20 employees.
Exporting isn't limited to physical products - Services account for 40% of U.S. exports, including industries such as finance, technology and consulting.
International markets offer opportunities for diversification - Many global markets are as stable as the U.S.
For Idaho businesses, exporting can create new revenue opportunities, increase profitability through access to diverse customer bases, reduce dependence on a single market and help offset seasonal fluctuations or domestic economic downturns.
Is Your Business Ready For Exporting?
You don't need to have international customers or an established export program to participate. The accelerator is designed for Idaho businesses that have a foundation in place and are ready to explore what's possible.
The program may be a good fit if your business:
Is based in Idaho.
Has been operational for at least one year.
Offers a product or service made in the United States or with at least 51% U.S. content.
Has systems and processes in place to support growth.
Whether you're exploring your first international market or looking to strengthen your approach to exporting, the program provides structured guidance to help you move forward.
A Practical 10-Week Roadmap to Global Growth
International expansion involves more than identifying potential customers. Businesses need to understand market opportunities, product requirements, pricing, payments, logistics and compliance.
The World Trade Connect Accelerator Program walks participants through these essential considerations:
Product classification
International market analysis
Market selection
Product modifications for international markets
International pricing
Forecasting
International payments and taxes
International marketing
Logistics and compliance
Participants benefit from expert coaching, group training and self-paced online learning. They'll leave with actionable insights, tools and guidance to build a complete export strategy, access to funding opportunities and a Certificate of Completion.
Program Details and How to Apply
The next virtual cohort begins January 27, 2027. Applications are evaluated to identify businesses that are ready to benefit from the program's expert guidance.
Important application dates and steps:
Application deadline: January 8, 2027
Program start: January 27, 2027
Program conclusion: April 14, 2027
Format: Virtual
Time commitment: Approximately 3 hours per week
Participation fee: $750 ($5400 est. value)
To apply, businesses must first request an account to access the Idaho Commerce Application Portal. Email STEP@commerce.idaho.gov at least 48 hours before the application deadline to request access.
For additional program information, contact Jennifer Verdon at the U.S. Commercial Service: jennifer.verdon@trade.gov.
The World Trade Connect Accelerator Program is funded in part through the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), a U.S. Small Business Administration grant program.
