The Rural Export Center (REC) mission is to expand exports from rural America, and to position rural American companies to compete and win in the global marketplace.
The North Dakota District Export Council worked with the U.S. Commercial Service in Fargo, ND to develop the concept for the Rural Export Center after recognizing that rural American companies lack access to the same resources and trade ecosystem as companies in larger, metropolitan areas. Additionally, exporters have frequently identified the need for detailed, industry-specific market research to help them make export decisions and find opportunities in foreign markets.
Companies from anywhere in rural America can sign up for research assistance through the Rural Export Center. This completely virtual service will help them find the best international markets and identify specific buyers in those markets who may be prospective business partners. Once a research project is completed, the company works closely with their local U.S. Commercial Service Trade Specialist to implement the plans, strategies and activities that emerge from the research. Together, they tap into the global network of U.S. Commercial Service offices located in U.S. Embassies and Consulates in over 70 countries around the world.
In addition to research services, the REC offers a series of virtual skills-acquisition focused trainings on the topics of Website Globalization and Market Research Skills.