Export Accelerator Program

Designed to help businesses expand in global markets with strategy, speed, and hands-on support.

Identifying Your Global Market Strategy

The EDPNC invites manufacturers and service-based exporters across the state to join its new transformative Export Accelerator Program. This program is designed to help businesses expand in global markets with strategy, speed, and hands-on support.

Company participants will receive tailored coaching, practical training, as well as opportunities to connect with international buyers to successfully grow their export sales. 

two men looking at products in packhouse prior to exports

About the Program

CB22 Decorative Lines cargo ship approaching Port of Wilmington

Program Highlights & Deliverables

The Export Accelerator Program is an exclusive opportunity for growth-minded companies ready to expand their global footprint. Participation is limited to 10 companies per cohort to encourage peer learning. Up to 3 employees per company are included in the training.

The program runs for 12 months, beginning in January 2026, and provides tailored international trade coaching. From January–June 2026, companies will take part in 4 in-person workshops and 2 online individual meetings as they develop their custom strategic export sales plans. From June-December 2026, participants will receive 6 months of continued export counselling and one international partner matchmaking service.

Workshop dates:

  • Jan. 21, Export Roadmap & Strategic Planning, Raleigh
  • March 12, Managing Market Entry, Global Sales, & Trade Finance, Charlotte
  • April 23, Legal Considerations & Best Practices , Raleigh
  • June 17, Export Strategic Plan Presentations by Participants, Charlotte OR
  • June 18, Export Strategic Plan Presentations by Participants, Raleigh

For detailed workshop agendas or to arrange a meeting to discuss the program, contact kendra.kuo@edpnc.com.

 

Business Qualifications

In order to be considered for this program, businesses must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 20 employees
  • Annual sales of $1 million or more
  • At least 1 year of export experience

 

Application of Interest

Applications will be open until December 19, 2025. If accepted, companies will secure their participation with a $2,500 registration fee.

aerial view of the port of wilmington

Contact

Kendra Kuo

Kendra Kuo

Program Director, Export Accelerator