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Dear Colleagues,
Remember learning about density in elementary school? Your teacher took a pile of sticks and invited students to break one stick, an easy task. A second pile of sticks was gathered into a bundle and bound. This time, students couldn’t break a single stick because of the bundle’s density and strength.
That strength is the power of the World Trade Centers® Association (WTCA). We often say, “We know people who know people.” The people we know are you, the more than 2 million businesses that form the network. Companies of all types and industries are members of their local World Trade Center. If you are an exporter, importer, manufacturer, shipper, financier or retailer, our network provides direct access to foreign markets and partners, bypassing potential gatekeepers. As a member, when you display the World Trade Center Delaware logo you show the world you're ready to do business. “Cold calling” is hard. With the WTCA, you have an introduction and a warm welcome wherever you want to do business.
I am pleased to have been chosen this month to join the new WTCA Trade Services Member Advisory Council. The council is a small group of representatives from a diverse set of centers from each region. We will develop new tools and programs to assist you. I look forward to meeting with companies and organizations that can join forces with Delaware’s industries and learn about the opportunities we provide.
You are the WTCA network. You are our strength.
| | P.S. One of the most valuable opportunities we can share with our interns is their ability to travel throughout the United States. It is hard for most of us to realize just how different the regions are from coast to coast and north to south. While the United States is still quite young, it has developed a rich history to accompany the vast landscape. Travel allows our interns to experience our country in a way that books can never convey. Please enjoy reading our Intern Harin Lee’s description of her most recent travel. | | WTC Delaware New Board Members | | WTC Delaware Premier Members | |
Learn more about Delaware Business Times
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Tradebridge Consulting LLC
Tradebridge Consulting, led by Michael Ford, has connected with World Trade Center Delaware through its commitment to supporting U.S. businesses in international trade. Tradebridge Consulting specializes in helping businesses navigate complex global trade with services such as documentation, customs clearance and regulatory compliance. As a member of WTC Delaware, the company aims to provide solutions that simplify global trade for the organization and its members.
| | Thank you to the following renewing members: | | |
Reminder for Members:
Showcase Your Business at Upcoming Trade Events!
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A reminder to all members of WTC Delaware: we can take your marketing materials to upcoming trade events we are attending. This is a great opportunity to showcase your business to a broader audience.
Be sure to send any materials you would like us to distribute!
Check below for a list of upcoming events where we’ll be representing WTC Delaware and promoting your business, or visit our calendar!
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World Trade Center Delaware was proud to host a well-attended BIRD Foundation Funding Roundtable Discussion on March 12, bringing together innovators, industry leaders, and government representatives to explore funding opportunities for U.S.-Israel collaborative projects. The event highlighted how companies can access up to $1.5 million in non-dilutive funding through the BIRD Foundation for joint R&D and commercialization initiatives.
We extend our sincere thanks to our speakers—Carla Stone, Andrea Yonah, Dr. Yushan Yan, and Vered Nohi—for sharing their expertise, as well as our event partners: the BIRD Foundation, Philadelphia-Israel Chamber of Commerce, Delaware Prosperity Partnership, Delaware Bio, Delaware Sustainable Chemistry Alliance and Mach2. We were also honored to welcome special guests from the Embassy of Israel and Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester’s office.
These opportunities support cutting-edge innovation and international collaboration—don’t miss out!
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World Trade Centers Association
Global Business Forum, Marseille, April 6-9
| | Travel with World Trade Center Delaware to Marseille, where we will present an exhibition about the best of Delaware’s goods and services. Take part in B2B Matchmaking sessions that connect you directly with potential business partners and investors from across the globe. The forum is open to all, offering an opportunity to expand your business. Participate in networking activities designed to forge lasting relationships and open doors to new collaborations. | | | | "...I was able to leverage the connections I made [at the GBF] to make my first sale and it was a prelude to a bigger partnership in another country."— Mohamed Cisse, CEO Tungsten Global Consulting Inc. (member WTC Delaware, 2023 GBF attendee) | | Information about exhibiting or traveling with us: 302-656-7905 or email cstone@wtcde.org. | | World Trade Center Delaware Day | | EXIM 2025 Annual Conference Registration is Open Register Today! | | |
Join us for EXIM Bank’s 2025 Annual Conference on Tuesday, April 29th and Wednesday, April 30th, in the heart of Washington, DC, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel.
The EXIM Annual Conference showcases the pivotal role of U.S. exports in driving economic prosperity, benefiting businesses of all sizes. The conference promises invaluable insights and unique networking opportunities for various domestic and international attendees, including exporters, buyers, financial professionals, business leaders from various sectors, and government officials.
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WTC Delaware Kickoff to the
US-Africa Business Summit May 8
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WTC Delaware presents Kickoff to the US-Africa Business Summit. Organized by the Corporate Council on Africa, this year’s summit will take place in Luanda, Angola, from June 23 to 27. Again this year, World Trade Center Delaware will be an exhibitor. The summit is an important forum for U.S. and African corporate, government and NGO leaders. WTC Delaware’s long record with the council and summit gives our companies a head start to explore or solidify market opportunities. Companies that attend with us succeed in a region where relationships are especially important.
Angola is one of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest economies and the United States’ third-largest trading partner in the region. It is a thriving emerging market and home to many multinational U.S. organizations. It has strengthened ties with the United States through a trade and investment framework agreement aimed at fostering greater trade and investment. Angola’s economy is overwhelmingly driven by its oil sector. Oil production and its supporting activities contribute about 50 percent of GDP, more than 70 percent of government revenue, and more than 90 percent of the country’s exports. Production has surpassed that of Nigeria, making it the largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa. Food products, machinery and chemical products were the main categories of U.S. exports to Angola in 2022. Angola is a large market for U.S. goods and services, leading with agricultural products and technology, oil and energy, healthcare, aviation and rail, and marine (fisheries and sea ports).* trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/angola-market-overview
This year's summit will bring together more than 1,500 delegates, including African presidents, heads of government and ministers, senior U.S. government officials and leaders from U.S. and African companies. The 2025 summit sessions will cover an array of opportunities to expand U.S.-Africa trade, investment and business relations.
Information about exhibiting or traveling with us: 302-656-7905 or email cstone@wtcde.org.
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Experiencing Culture and History
By WTC Delaware Intern Harin Lee
| | Travel has a unique way of broadening perspectives, offering a change of scenery and a deeper connection to the places we visit. During my recent vacation, I explored New York and Boston, two cities rich in culture and history. It was my first visit, and each day brought new experiences, valuable insights and lasting impressions. | | |
Immersing in Cultural Experiences
Visiting the Museum of Modern Art in New York was truly inspiring. I love to visit art museums to see works I have only encountered in books. MoMA’s extensive collection spans universally recognized Impressionist pieces such as Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night” to contemporary art, making the experience enriching and accessible. It reminded me how art connects people through time and place.
Seeing a Broadway musical was unforgettable. "Aladdin" live on stage, especially because it’s my favorite Disney story, was magical. The dynamic performances, stunning sets and live orchestration brought the narrative to life. It exceeded my expectations. I want to see more shows, such as "The Lion King" and "Chicago."
Exploring Times Square and walking New York's diverse neighborhoods provided opportunities to witness the city’s dynamic cultural tapestry. Meeting people from various nationalities and backgrounds added to the experience, highlighting the city’s role as a global melting pot.
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Tracing Historical Footsteps
In Boston, history came alive on every street and with every landmark. Walking through Boston, I followed important moments of the American Revolution, from the Boston Tea Party to the readings of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House. I explored the stories of Revolutionary figures such as Samuel Adams. And I discovered why Boston is called the “center of New England,” reflecting its deep-rooted connections with European settlers.
New York’s historic landmarks were equally compelling. Strolling Wall Street, I learned the origin of its name. I visited the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France that symbolizes freedom. These monuments bring history to life, bridging the past and present, and showing how the past continues to shape contemporary life.
| | This trip was more than a getaway, it was an opportunity to immerse myself in the culture and history of two major cities. From world-class art museums to sites of historic significance, every experience expanded my understanding and renewed my curiosity. I returned inspired, with greater eagerness to seek out and appreciate the stories rooted in places I have yet to explore. | | |
Plan Ahead for Travel:
Passport & Safety Tips for U.S. Citizens
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Are you planning to travel any time soon? Do you need a new passport? Many countries require at least 6 months to get a visa before your current passport expires. Allow processing time as well as the 6 months. Get it or renew as soon as possible. U.S. Passports
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Need a Passport Appointment? The Department of State encourages travelers to go to travel.state.gov to schedule passport appointments within 14 days of their travel date.
Stay in touch when you travel. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service for U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad to receive safety and security alerts and other local updates by email from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling in STEP also makes it easier to contact U.S. citizens during an emergency. You can sign up for these alerts at login.gov.
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Delaware’s Personal Data Privacy Act Now in Effect –
What You Need to Know
| | U.S. Government Funding for Study & Exchange Programs | | |
Did you know that the U.S. State Department offers support for study abroad, internship, and exchange programs for high school and university students?
Check out the programs in critical language study, policy and citizenship programs, arts and music, and more.
Exchange Programs
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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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EL SALVADOR: U.S. Suppliers for Syringes, Catheters & Medical Disposables
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EL SALVADOR: Medical Distributor Seeking U.S. Hospital Furniture & Waste Recycling Machines
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GERMANY: U.S. Supplier of Calcium Sulfates for Dental Plaster
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MEXICO: U.S. GMP-Certified Vitamin & Supplement Suppliers
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THAILAND: U.S. Prune Juice Concentrate
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SURINAME: Opportunity for U.S. Electric Vehicle Suppliers
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UGANDA: Railway Rehabilitation – Diesel Electric Locomotives & Training
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UKRAINE: Electric Tricycle Procurement
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KAZAKHSTAN: Energy-Efficient Tram Acquisition
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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April 23, 2025
Celebration of WTC Delaware Day, University & Whist Club, Wilmington, DE
May 8, 2025
Kick-Off to the U.S. - Africa Business Summit 2025, University & Whist Club, Wilmington, DE
May 21, 2025
Save the Date. How EXIM Tools Can Help Your Small Business Customers
The Ins and Outs of International Banking Services for Regional and Community Banks, University & Whist Club, Wilmington, DE
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The Export-Import Bank of the United States is the official export credit agency of the U.S. government, supporting American businesses expanding into international markets. EXIM provides financing solutions such as loan guarantees, export credit insurance, and direct loans to help U.S. companies compete globally. By reducing the risks of exporting and ensuring access to capital, EXIM plays a key role in strengthening U.S. trade and job growth.
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March 27, 2025
Spring Manufacturing & Policy Conference, DTCC, Dover, Delaware; Delaware Manufacturing Association & DEMEP
March 27, 2025
U.S. Mexico Supply Chain Summit, El Paso, Texas
March 31-April 4, 2025
Hannover Messe 2024, Hannover, Germany; International Trade Administration & U.S. Commercial Service
April 3-11, 2025
Trade Winds: The Americas, Brazil (April 9), Colombia and/or Uruguay (April 3-4) and Argentina and/or Chile; U.S. Commercial Service
April 10, 2025
2nd Annual Minority Health Summit, Wilmington, DE; Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce
April 29-30, 2025
EXIM 2025 Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.
May 5, 2025
The Annual Dinner - Powering Progress, Wilmington, DE; New Castle County Chamber of Commerce
May 12-15, 2025
Automate, Detroit, Michigan; International Trade Administration & U.S. Commercial Service
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Showcase your business by displaying brochures, business cards and product samples in our office to raise your visibility and promote your company to visitors and fellow members.
| | 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. | | | | |
