If you are a small business that has been affected by the recent tariff increases for goods being imported into the US then the Local Enterprise Offices are here to support you. There are a range of supports that can help you navigate these new trading conditions and expert advice is available in each Local Enterprise Office through the Export Business Advisory Service
Export Business Advisory Service
If you would like to discuss your export issues and options with an expert, every Local Enterprise Office has an Export Business Advisory Service. This service can give strategic advice on how to navigate export issues and to find opportunities in new markets.
Key actions for consideration by companies at this time include:
- Proactively engage with your US customers and distributors to ensure open communication to explore what impact the announcement may have, and how you can continue to work successfully together
- Analyse your competitive position and understand contract terms of US customers and distributors
- Assess and mitigate against the impact of tariffs and the evolving global trading landscape, including supply chain, financial strength, competitiveness, innovation and the potential for market opportunities and diversification
- Engage with your Local Enterprise Office to understand what supports are available to your business at this time
Market Explorer Grant
If you will be directly affected by the new US tariffs, the Market Explorer Grant will give you the opportunity to evaluate and research new markets you can enter. The grant will support first time and small-scale exporters to undertake essential market research and to support the development of viable and sustainable market entry strategies in new geographic markets for businesses. The financial assistance proposed will provide support towards costs incurred in researching new market opportunities for products and services.
For more information on any of the supports above, please contact your Local Enterprise Office.
