Friendship Makes the World Go Round | | I am frequently asked how I can travel alone across the globe to a foreign country where I don’t speak the language. Sure, there are flight delays, bad weather, lost luggage, persnickety computers, cords and converters, hotel cancellations, damaged displays, missing magazines or giveaways, and reactions to food, bug bites or plants. These have all happened to me—and more. But in every instance, there has always been someone who wanted to help. Mister Rogers, of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, used to say, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” It’s true. Helpers come in many forms. Some wear uniforms, lab coats or official conference badges. Others are fellow attendees, exhibitors or travelers. It’s not always easy to ask for or accept assistance. But the smile you receive when you say “thank you” may just be the help you needed most. | | US-Africa Business Summit, Luanda, Angola | | |
This year’s summit was the largest ever organized, with 2,700 registrants, 15 heads of state or government, and dozens of Cabinet ministers, department heads, ambassadors and senior diplomats. Attendance from across the African continent was overwhelming, making it easy for U.S. participants to interact with African government officials and companies from all sectors. As always, the U.S. government was well-represented, with numerous high-level officials led by Acting Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Troy Fitrell and joined by Senior Adviser for Africa Massad Boulos.
The theme, “Pathways to Prosperity: A Shared Vision for U.S.-Africa Partnership,” was reflected in the number of MOUs signed for U.S. investment in major African projects. Many of these initiatives focus on physically linking African countries, such as the newly U.S.-funded, 720-mile, $1.5 billion electricity transmission line between Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sectors with the greatest potential in Africa include water and wastewater infrastructure, aviation, rail equipment and maintenance, IT and telecommunications, fintech, logistics, port infrastructure, oil and gas, and alternative energy—including green hydrogen. Healthcare remains a critical need in many African countries. Governments are expanding, upgrading and replacing hospitals and clinics, and equipping them with digital diagnostic equipment (for cardiology, cancer and other chronic diseases) that can be integrated into telehealth networks for rural and remote regions. Most countries in Africa face a severe shortage of medical personnel, making training another valuable area for U.S. engagement and export.
As always, World Trade Center Delaware had an exhibition booth. This year, I was assisted by Lesego Holzapel, CEO and founder of WTC Delaware member Moedi Wines. The water, wastewater and planning services of Batta Environmental Associates, which supported the booth, received considerable attention from both African officials and private companies. We promoted Delaware’s convenient gateway location, Foreign Trade Zone #99 (highlighted in a looping video), as well as its aviation training and services, higher education, fintech, biosciences, healthcare, agriculture and more. When large numbers of attendees suddenly gathered at our booth, we learned that one of the Ministers of Entrepreneurship had recommended that companies interested in incorporating in the U.S. should speak with WTC Delaware to learn about incorporating in Delaware. Lesego was very helpful in explaining how incorporating in Delaware has benefited her South Africa–based wine company.
In addition to the sessions and the exhibit, I participated in several sideline events. CNN invited me to be interviewed for a documentary it is producing about the summit, scheduled to air later this year. I was also interviewed by Angolan National Public Radio about our participation, as well as by several U.S. and international e-zines.
I was honored to be invited to a small breakfast with H.E. Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço, First Lady of the Republic of Angola. Her Excellency is a well-known economist who has served in numerous planning and economic roles, including as an executive director on the board of the World Bank Group. She uses her platform to advocate for healthcare, economic development and education.
| | WTC Delaware President Carla Stone with the Republic of Angola Ministry of Energy and Water Director Kiala Pierre | | WTC Delaware Premier Members | |
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Wheeler Wolfenden and Dwares, CPAs, has been a trusted partner to businesses and individuals since 1998. With locations in Pike Creek and Lewes, Delaware, the firm offers a full suite of professional services from accounting, auditing, and tax planning to business consulting, international advisory, and litigation support. Known for its depth of knowledge and commitment to excellence, WWD helps clients navigate complex financial landscapes with confidence and clarity.
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Reminder for Members:
Member Perks Around the World
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One of the benefits of World Trade Center Delaware membership is the opportunity to participate in World Trade Center Association events worldwide. We are adding a new section to the newsletter to keep you informed of our partner events. We will send you periodic updates on WTCA events and post them on our social media.
Please note that there are 320 Centers in other US cities and around the world. Let us know your travel plans, and we can introduce you to our partners at other Centers. There is no substitute for local knowledge.
| | Thank You and Goodbye to Harin | | |
Harin Lee, our intern from the Republic of Korea for the past seven months, has returned home to graduate from university.
All of us at World Trade Center Delaware already miss her.
Harin embodied the very best of the WEST program, the joint Korean and U.S. government initiative that places high-achieving interns in professional placements across the United States. She stayed longer than any of our previous interns, and during that time, she became much more than an intern; she became a capable and valued colleague.
Harin approached every assignment with enthusiasm and a smile, whether she was conducting research, compiling trade leads, producing event flyers, posting on social media, working at the registration table, setting up an exhibit, or even helping us choose new computers.
Without her laughter in the air, the end of the hall feels much emptier now.
We look forward to seeing Harin again, whether in Korea or Delaware.
| | Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July | | World Trade Center Delaware Hosts Embassy of Barbados Delegation | | |
World Trade Center Delaware was honored to host a breakfast in recognition of a visit from the Embassy of Barbados, led by His Excellency Victor Fernandes, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United States and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States. He was joined by Christobelle Reece, minister counsellor and deputy chief of mission, and William Clarke, first secretary. The visit was coordinated at the request of Delaware state Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton.
The program included presentations about Barbados and Delaware, Sister Cities partnerships, and the University of Delaware, followed by an open discussion on opportunities for trade and investment, as well as educational and cultural exchanges between Barbados and Delaware.
Following breakfast, the delegation toured Port Wilmington to explore the potential for expanded trade through the ports.
Participants in the discussion included Rep. Wilson-Anton; David Mathe, director of international development for the State of Delaware; Primus Poppiti, president of Sister Cities of Wilmington; Dr. Ravi Ammigan, associate provost at the University of Delaware; Devon Mitchell, international committee co-chair of the Delaware African and Caribbean Affairs Commission; Larry DiSabatino, president of DiSabatino Construction; and logistics expert Jimmy Avendano.
At the Port, the delegation was hosted by Eugene Young, senior vice president of external affairs; Zach Barba, director of commercial operations; and Nicole Algarin, office manager.
Visits to the Embassy of Barbados in Washington, D.C., and a return visit to Delaware are planned in the coming months.
| | Open Your Home to Global Friendship | | |
The State of Delaware and Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, have been Sister States since 1997. Over the past 28 years, Delaware and Miyagi have shared many cultural, educational, business and government exchange programs.
This summer, nine Japanese high school students and one teacher, Mr. Yokoyama, will visit the University of Delaware for a three-week summer program. The students will stay in university dorms, but we are seeking Delaware families to host the chaperone teacher in their homes.
This is a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the Sister State program and experience a rewarding cultural exchange.
We are looking for volunteers to host Mr. Yokoyama from July 20 to August 8, ideally in one-week intervals.
If you have any questions, please contact Miki Smith at smithmiki@msn.com or (302) 222-1911.
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13th Annual Summer International
Business Networking Reception
| | For the 13th year, members of Greater Philadelphia’s international community will host a business networking reception to celebrate the region’s leadership in innovation, investment and global trade. The event will highlight why businesses and individuals are drawn to the area, including its welcoming business climate and strong support for technology, health and entrepreneurship. Keynote speaker Dave Raymond, the original Phillie Phanatic, will discuss the “power of fun” and its role in building brand value, boosting productivity and improving overall well-being. Attendees will include business leaders and government officials from local, state and international levels. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald Camp 2025, which provides a summer camp experience for children with cancer and their families. | |
Webinar: International Banking Services for
Lenders and Exporters
| | Join WTC Delaware on July 31 | |
TILOG LOGISTIX 2025
Call for Importers
| | Join WTC Delaware at Art Means Business! | | |
The Film Brothers, a Wilmington-based creative agency, is highlighting the impact of the arts on Delaware’s economy through their campaign, "Art Means Business." The campaign features stories from local artists and creative professionals whose work drives economic growth, builds community and supports the state’s cultural identity.
Using powerful video storytelling, Art Means Business amplifies the voices of musicians, visual artists, filmmakers and others, showing how Delaware’s creative economy contributes to industries across the state. Presented by World Trade Center Delaware, the event takes place on October 7.
Tickets are going fast; buy yours now: filmbrothers.com/artmeansbusiness
| | DSB and BioConnect DE Announce STAR Fund Details for Retaining STEM Talent in Delaware | | |
The Delaware Division of Small Business, in partnership with BioConnect DE, has launched the STEM Talent Advancement and Retention Fund to help attract and retain STEM professionals in the state. The STAR Fund offers tuition reimbursement awards of up to $6,000 for graduates with associate, bachelor’s or advanced degrees who are working in Delaware in eligible science, technology, engineering and math fields. The program aims to ease the burden of student loan debt and build a strong, innovative workforce.
Eligible applicants must hold a STEM degree, work full time for a Delaware-based employer and work in qualifying fields such as life sciences, engineering or software technology. Preference is given to Delaware residents and those who have attended institutions in Delaware. The application period runs from July 14 to July 31, with awards expected in October.
Learn more: bioconnectde.org/star-fund
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WTC Delaware provides a full range of international trade-related services with an in-depth focus on the export/import of services and manufactured goods. These pages contain brief information on opportunities that could offer exciting possibilities for U.S. companies in various industry sectors.
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PARAGUAY: Atome Fertilizer Plant Environmental Review
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OMAN: Third Green Hydrogen (gH2) Auction Round for Large-Scale Renewable Projects
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CHILE: Design, Construction & Maintenance of Desalination Plant
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COSTA RICA: Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements in Puntarenas
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UKRAINE: Supply of Containerized Gas Engine Power Plants
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ECUADOR: Construction of Sewerage System in Pablo Sexto Canton
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MEXICO: Upgrading Potable Water Treatment Plants and Water Infrastructure
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NIGERIA: Waste Transfer Station Equipment Procurement and Water Infrastructure Project
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CABO VERDE: Electric Sector Reforms and Privatization of EPEC and EDEC
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BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: Pale District Heating System Upgrade
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SERBIA: Mobile Equipment Procurement for Landfill Operations
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KYRGYZ REPUBLIC: Procurement of 4WD Pickup Trucks for Water Resources Service
View the most recent trade leads here.
Delaware companies: Please fill out our trade leads form so we can market your products or services!
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The U.S. Commercial Service is the trade promotion arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. It helps American businesses expand globally by offering market intelligence, trade counseling, business matchmaking and commercial diplomacy. With offices located across the United States and in U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, the agency connects U.S. exporters with international buyers and partners. Whether a company is new to exporting or looking to grow in specific global markets, the U.S. Commercial Service provides customized support to help U.S. goods and services succeed abroad.
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July 7-11, 2025
INSPIRE Health Forum, Manila, Philippines
July 15, 2025
2025 State of the County, Newark, DE; New Castle County Chamber of Commerce
July 23, 2025
13th Annual Summer International Business Networking Reception, Philadelphia, PA; PHL BABC
August 20-22, 2025
Global Economic Summit 2025: Asia - Pacific Driving Global Market, Mumbai, India
August 21-23, 2025
TILOG LOGISTIX 2025: Call for Importers, Bangkok, Thailand; WTC Shamshabad & Visakhapatnam
September 16-17, 2025
13th ADB Business Opportunities Fair 2025, Manila, Philippines
September 21-25, 2025
Advanced Manufacturing Business Development Mission to Türkiye and Poland; U.S. Commerical Service and International Trade Administration
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Promote your latest products and success stories to boost visibility and connect with potential partners through our platform.
Contact us to share your achievements and engage with our network.
| | World Trade Center® Delaware is the state’s premier international business resource. We help companies, especially small, medium-sized and emerging enterprises, to grow their international business. We provide trade leads, training programs, job leads, networking, matchmaking, trade mission and reverse trade mission opportunities for Delaware companies. We serve all types of companies in various sectors including agriculture, environmental remediation, IT, medical equipment manufacturing, biopharmaceuticals, financial, legal and real estate services. For more information visit us at www.wtcde.org. | | Copyright © 2025. All Rights Reserved. | | | | |
