For Immediate Release
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
VANCOUVER, B.C. — On July 18th, the World Trade Centre - Vancouver graduated its 37th cohort of the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP), the flagship export training initiative for businesses across Canada. This marks the significant achievement of supporting over 500 businesses on their global expansion journey.
The 37th cohort focused on women-owned businesses, attracting 18 dynamic local companies. Regardless of the size, industry or experience of the company, alumni of TAP have been able to propel their company to the next level.
2021 graduates and 2023 winners of WTC-V’s Export Award, TruEarth, saw a 51% growth in international revenue and expanded into new markets across Europe, China, and other Asian Countries within 12 months after TAP. Additionally, 2022 graduates and 2023 winners of the Trade Diversification Award winners, Indigenous owned Nuez Acres, increased their market access to nine new countries after participating in the program.
Their success stories reflect the actionable insights and strategies that over 500 companies have gained from the Trade Accelerator Program. On average, the export revenue of those who attended TAP has increased by 23%, and participants forecast their export sales to grow by 47%.
This program has received support from the Province of British Columbia, the Government of Canada, and private sector partners.
This milestone was celebrated today with the World Trade Centre - Vancouver alumni and Hon. Mary Ng, P.C., M.P., Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development. Today’s event provided attendees with an opportunity to discuss the federal government's approach to Canada-US relations and bilateral trade as well as the opportunities to grow internationally.
Quotes
“This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in driving economic growth. We are delighted to celebrate the graduation of 500 companies from the Trade Accelerator Program run by World Trade Centre - Vancouver, a milestone that highlights the remarkable potential of Canadian businesses on the global stage. By equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge, we are fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and resilience. Our government is committed to supporting initiatives like TAP that empower businesses to expand internationally and succeed in a competitive global market.” – Hon. Mary Ng, P.C., M.P., Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
“I am delighted to congratulate the World Trade Centre – Vancouver on this significant achievement in helping to prepare 500 B.C. companies to grow their business into new international export markets. Supporting the Trade Accelerator Program contributes to the goals of B.C.'s Trade Diversification Strategy which seeks to expand our markets and our pool of B.C. exporters to make B.C. stronger."” – Hon. Jagrup Brar, Minister of State for Trade
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone of graduating 500 companies from the Trade Accelerator Program. By equipping companies with the tools and strategies needed for global success, we are fostering a bright economic future for our region and the entire country. Our commitment to supporting the growth of local businesses on the international stage remains unwavering, and we look forward to many more success stories – onwards to 1000 alumni!” – Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
“We are delighted to mark this significant milestone and honoured to play a part in the growth journey of so many businesses across British Columbia. By helping open the doors of global trade to local companies, we'll build a stronger and more prosperous economy, ensuring that the Greater Vancouver region remains competitive and the preferred Pacific Gateway for trade, commerce, and travel.” – Daniel Paquette, Director, World Trade Centre – Vancouver
“The TAP program has been instrumental in enabling us to execute our Market Entry Strategy, largely due to the valuable network of contacts it has introduced. These connections have been indispensable, with several individuals offering mentorship and guidance as we navigated the complexities of penetrating international markets. As a direct result of the TAP program, we have increased our partnerships and experienced substantial growth in our cyber practice. Notably, we recently onboarded a new client in Spain, a testament to the program's effectiveness in broadening our global reach.” – Dan Stratton, Co-Founder & Chief Technology Advisor, Safe Harbour Informatics – 2023 TAP Alumni
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About World Trade Centre Vancouver
World Trade Centre Vancouver (WTC-V) is a subsidiary of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade dedicated to strengthening the export performance of small and medium-sized businesses in British Columbia. As a member of the World Trade Centers Association, WTC-V provides exceptional global access for B.C. businesses with over 300 properties and trade services associations in nearly 100 countries worldwide. WTC-V delivers unparalleled access to global -minded, highly targeted audiences made up of the most influential C-suite and political leaders, small business owners, and thought-leaders in Western Canada and beyond.
About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.
Media contact:
Rahul Ajwani
Communications Specialist
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5457 |
