The U.S. Commercial Service in July opened the Rural Export Center (REC) in Fargo, North Dakota, to promote rural America’s exports and equip its companies with the research and resources to compete and win in the global marketplace.

“The Rural Export Center addresses the unique needs of rural American companies by providing in-depth market research and training designed specifically for them,” explained Ian Steff, assistant secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and director general of the United States and Foreign Commercial Service.

“These companies are a crucial part of the continued growth of the American economy,” Steff continued, “and providing them with these essential, customized tools will help bolster their success in both the domestic and international markets and will increase U.S. exports worldwide.”

Companies from anywhere in rural America can request virtual consultations and assistance through the REC and many can apply grants from the Small Business Administration’s State Trade Expansion Program toward REC services. Armed with REC research, the company then collaborates with their local U.S. Commercial Service Trade Specialist to implement plans and strategies informed by REC analysis.

“Together, they leverage the global network of U.S. Commercial Service offices located in U.S. Embassies and Consulates in more than 75 markets around the world,” states a U.S. Commercial Service press release.