Rural Export Center opens in Louisville

Global network of experienced trade professionals in more than 100 locations throughout the United States

(Story Courtesy of Kentucky Today)

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (KT) – The International Trade Administration’s (ITA) U.S. Commercial Service Ohio Valley Rural Export Center has officially opened in Louisville and will be serving six states throughout the region.

Deputy Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service James Golsen joined federal, state and local representatives in Louisville, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the grand opening of the Center.The Ohio Valley Rural Export Center, strategically located in Louisville, Kentucky, is one of seven new Rural Export Centers opening across the United States and will support U.S. businesses across six states (Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, and Wisconsin) to bring local products and services to markets worldwide, creating jobs and opportunities for rural underserved communities.  

“Ohio Valley companies have demonstrated tremendous capacity for growth in global trade,” Golsen stated during the ceremony.  “By opening the Ohio Valley Rural Export Center, the U.S. Department of Commerce is investing in the current and future success of rural and other underserved businesses and communities across the Midwest.” 

“The new Ohio Valley Rural Export Center’s location in Louisville is a testament to our red-hot economy and everything our great state has to offer,” said Gov. Andy Beshear.  “I want to thank all the local, state and federal leaders who made this announcement possible, and I look forward to seeing how this new center will support rural Kentucky businesses and create job opportunities in our Commonwealth.”

The U.S. Commercial Service is dedicated to helping American businesses, both large and small, succeed internationally through exports and is comprised of a global network of experienced trade professionals in more than 100 locations throughout the United States and more than 80 U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.  ITA’s Rural Export Centers, along with its Global Diversity Export Initiative, collaborate with state, local and tribal governments, economic development organizations, and community leaders to bring export assistance to a diverse array of businesses in underserved communities.