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, with up to 3 employees per company included in the hands-on 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 strategic planning sessions. (In-person workshops will be based in the Raleigh/Charlotte areas. Exact locations and dates to be determined by Oct. 2025.)

From June-December 2026, participants will also receive 6 months of continued support to accelerate export sales growth.

Company executives who are accepted into the Export Accelerator Program will:

  • Receive one-on-one coaching from trade experts
  • Obtain initial market research to identify global opportunities
  • Access local and national expert trade resources
  • Collaborate with peers for insights and accountability
  • Complete a custom strategic export sales plan to improve ROI
  • Arrange B2B meetings with potential international sales partners

Companies must apply to the program in order to be considered.

 

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 from September 2 to November 12, 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