Successful Exporting Global Summit for Women Mexico City, Mexico June 2005

EDGE Development Group, Inc. A Primer for Exporters A Primer for Exporters 1. Research Markets & Products 2. Research Programs & Resources 3. Develop a Business Plan 4. Implement Your Plan

EDGE Development Group, Inc. If the key to successful real estate investment is “LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION”, Then the key to success for expanding internationally is: “RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!”

EDGE Development Group, Inc. 1. Research 1. Research Markets Size of the market Product or service competition Industry and/or product regulations Local market norms Language issues Cultural differences Business environment Others’ experience

EDGE Development Group, Inc. 2. Research 2. Research Product & Resources Product codes & regulations Technology Competitive pricing Customer or client appeal Selling and distribution alternatives Existing market studies Use of networks

EDGE Development Group, Inc. Research Available Resources Networking groups Internet Blogs Internet chat rooms National organizations International organizations Networking groups Internet Blogs Internet chat rooms National organizations International organizations Industry associations Trade reports Industry trends Trade press Trade fairs Internet Groups Industry associations Trade reports Industry trends Trade press Trade fairs Internet Groups Foreign commercial services Country profiles Market studies Export programs GOV’t supported programs Foreign commercial services Country profiles Market studies Export programs GOV’t supported programs Government Industry Groups Networks

EDGE Development Group, Inc. Research the Rules Applicable Markets The Regulators Regulatory Procedures Approval Process Cost & Time ABC Company For each market of interest

EDGE Development Group, Inc. 3. Develop a Business Plan Define your entry objectives Determine initial product or service Determine pricing options Develop marketing, sales & support plans Develop product delivery requirements Define resources – human and financial Develop a communications plan Develop an exit strategy.

EDGE Development Group, Inc. Determine Optimum Method of Entry Acquisition Agent or Distributor Sales Rep Corporate Entity Licensee Partnership

EDGE Development Group, Inc. 4. Implement Your Plan Start slowly Comply with all regulations Follow local customs and procedures Encourage and analyze feedback frequently Refine product or service mix, as needed Remember your exit strategy!

EDGE Development Group, Inc. EDGE Development Group, Inc. International Economic Development International Business Consulting PO Box Ivy Hill Road Ridgefield, CT USA Tel: Fax: