JANUARY 2024 NEWSLETTER

From Denise Thomas, CEO of the World Trade Center Arkansas:

We invite all Arkansas exporters to join us in this Trade Mission! The tech conference Collision Toronto will be held the first three days, then the B2B matchmaking. It is highly recommended that you attend the conference, but not mandatory in order for you to participate in this Trade Mission. We are still working out all the details in regards to the price, but early estimates are as follows. Please note these are our best estimates at this time:

• Flights: $600-$1,500 (We will work on a group rate with enough participants)
• Hotel: $200-$400/night (we are working with the consul general office in Houston for a block rooms at a discounted rate, so what is provided is estimated for your information)
• Food: $65/day (based on per diem) - approximately $400 total
• Registration for Collision (requested free entry, working on group rate, let us know if you want to attend)
• Other fees will apply once planning is more structured

Estimated Total: $4,000-5,000

The reason we’re sending to you now without all the details is because this will fill up fast, and we want you to have first choice before opening up to others! The sooner you can let us know, the better, but please know it is first-come, first-served. An application is available here (please note that the deadline has been extended!)

We are happy to answer any questions you may have and look forward to hearing from you soon. Further information will be shared as it comes available. Contact me at deniset@arwtc.org with your questions.

U.S. Commercial Service

Apply Now for the Presidential “E” Award

Originally created during World War II, more than 4,000 ”E” Pennants were presented to war plants in recognition of production excellence. The famous flag with the big “E” emblazoned on it became a badge of patriotism in action. President Kennedy revived the World War II “E” symbol of excellence to honor and provide recognition to America’s exporters in 1961.

The President’s “E” Award provides suitable recognition to persons, firms, or organizations that contribute significantly in the effort to increase United States exports. 

The President’s “E Star” Award, which was authorized by the Secretary of Commerce, affords continuing recognition of noteworthy export promotion efforts.

Who Can Apply?

1. Exporters (Goods, services, commodities): Must demonstrate export growth for the most recent four years.
2. Export Service Providers (Those that help other U.S. companies to export): Must detail work resulting in export growth for their clients over most recent four years.

Why Apply? Winners can display the E Award banner wherever they do business, letting customers know the organization has been recognized by the President of the United States as making significant contributions to U.S. export growth.

Want to talk to an Arkansas DEC Member who has won the E Award for the best tips? Contact either William Burgess or Keith Smith, who both won in 2016!

Accepting Applications November 1, 2023 to January 19, 2024

Please feel free to contact us. If we don't know the answer, we'll find someone who does!

Heidi Whitman, Administrative Coordinator



Arkansas exports $5.6 billion in goods around the world and supports 39,000 jobs in the state and nation! Our top three exports are transportation equipment, processed foods and chemicals, primarily to the nations of Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom. 

The mission of the Arkansas District Export Council is to promote and support international trade activities and awareness throughout the State of Arkansas.