Export Support Package – what is it and how do I apply?

If you've thought about exporting but are unsure where to start, the Export Support Package might be able to help

The Institute of Export and International Trade’s Export Support Package is open for registrations of interest.

It aims to help micro, small and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) get started with exporting. According to government figures, 5.5m businesses are registered in the UK, with 99.9 per cent being classified as MSMEs. However, less than 10 per cent of them export.

The launch coincides with the United Nations’ World Micro and Small and Medium Enterprise Day. This year’s theme is ‘building a stronger future together’.

Marco Forgione, director general of The Institute of Export & International Trade said: “As a leading organisation in international trade, founded on the principle of equipping people and companies to trade internationally, we have designed the Export Support Package to enable UK MSMEs to fulfil their business potential through exporting.

“Through this bespoke package of consultancy, training and implementation we will provide businesses with the knowledge and expertise to trade confidently and compliantly with the world.”

What’s in the Export Support Package?

The package is made up of three components.

Export Readiness Review

Complete a simple questionnaire, so that the IOE&IT can highlight any authorisations or licenses you need and match you with a suitable expert. It allows them to identify any challenges and suitable training options.

Training

Your answers will be used to create a bespoke training programme of three programmes that would be most beneficial to your needs based on your assessment.

Implementation

Expert guidance from the IOE&IT will help you tie up loose ends, identifying ways to help you optimise your business.

Am I eligible?

Any MSME in the UK can apply.

How do I apply?

Registration of interest is now open through the IOE&IT’s website here: https://www.export.org.uk/page/export-support-package. Successful applicants will be notified within 72 hours.

Further reading

Exporting goods abroad: A complete guide for small businesses – In this article, we present the main considerations for a business looking to break into international markets – and look at two businesses that found success in exporting

How to avoid paying £130,000 in VAT registration fees if you export to EU – UK small businesses face having to register for VAT in each EU country they sell direct to, which could cost tens of thousands of pounds for the privilege of paying tax in Europe

Top five tips for SME exporters in a post-Brexit world – We share the top five exporting tips after leaving the EU

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Anna Jordan

Anna is Senior Reporter, covering topics affecting SMEs such as grant funding, managing employees and the day-to-day running of a business.

Related Topics

Exporting
Government support