Forum brought together local business leaders, state officials, and representatives from the Export-Import Bank for a discussion about strategies for expanding exports, accessing capital, and creating jobs

Last year, Granite State exports totaled more than $3.4 billion, helping fuel economic growth and job creation across the state

(Friday, December 6, 2013 | Rep. Kuster delivers remarks during an Exporter Forum at Nashua Community College)

NASHUA, N.H. – As part of her commitment to helping create jobs and opportunity for the middle class, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today convened a group of local business leaders, state officials, and representatives from the Export-Import Bank of the United States to discuss strategies for boosting international sales during an Exporter Forum at Nashua Community College. The session helped local business owners learn about ways to boost their exports, access working capital, leverage government resources, and find new markets and customers around the globe.

“My top priority in Congress is helping create jobs and opportunity for the middle class, and supporting exports is a key part of that goal,” Kuster said. “That’s what this Forum was all about – ensuring that New Hampshire businesses have access to the tools and resources they need to boost their exports and create good, middle class jobs right here in the Granite State.”

Kuster delivered remarks at the forum, as did Patricia M. Loui, a member of the Export-Import Bank’s Board of Directors. State and federal officials then joined local business owners for panel discussions on export resources and strategies.

“With 95% of the world’s customers outside the United States, the value of exporting has become increasingly clear,” Director Loui said. “Increasing American exports is vital to our economic recovery and we will not reach our export potential without the participation of small business. That is why Ex-Im Bank is committed to growing the number of these companies that use our financing and, in doing so, create, save, and sustain American jobs.”

A member of the House Small Business Committee, Kuster has prioritized efforts to boost exports and create jobs and opportunity for middle class families in New Hampshire. Earlier this year, she introduced the Small Business Growth Through Exports Act, legislation that would extend and expand the successful State Trade and Export Promotion program (STEP). To date, STEP has helped dozens of Granite State companies expand their exports, create jobs, and grow New Hampshire’s economy. Last year, New Hampshire exports totaled more than $3.4 billion, helping fuel economic growth and job creation across the state.

###