DR. RAY BOWMAN NAMED VICE CHAIR OF DISTRICT EXPORT COUNCIL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, FURTHERING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COLLABORATIVE’S GLOBAL IMPACT
CAMARILLO, Calif.- The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Ray Bowman, EDC’s Small Business Development Center (EDC SBDC) Director, on his appointment as Vice Chair of the District Export Council of Southern California (DECSC) for the 2024-2025 term.
District Export Councils (DECs) are esteemed organizations comprising local business leaders appointed by successive U.S. Secretaries of Commerce. They provide invaluable guidance and support to local firms seeking to expand into international markets. For over 30 years, DECs across the United States have played a crucial role in promoting economic growth and job creation through export initiatives.
DECSC, one of the most active chapters among the 59 DECs nationwide, focuses on assisting small and medium-sized enterprises to expand their global footprint. Through various export-related events and workshops, DECSC, in collaboration with the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce, provides invaluable support to California-based companies seeking to internationalize their operations.
As a longstanding member of EDC and DECSC since 2010, Dr. Bowman brings a wealth of expertise and experience to his new role. Under Dr. Ray Bowman’s leadership, EDC SBDC leads global business consulting and technical assistance for the Los Angeles Regional Network, supporting hundreds of business owners annually to identify and take advantage of trade opportunities. EDC SBDC’s outstanding achievements in exports have earned it the prestigious President’s “E” Award for Export Service, the highest form of recognition bestowed upon entities for their contributions to the expansion of U.S. exports.
As Vice Chair, Dr. Bowman will play a key role in supporting DECSC operations, fostering program growth, managing fiscal responsibilities, and coordinating resources. His nomination by local members reflects his exceptional leadership and underscores EDC’s dedication to promoting economic development through international trade.
For more information about the District Export Council of Southern California and its programs, please visit the DECSC website.
For more information about EDC SBDC’s international trade support, please visit the EDC Go Global Trade Program website.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact the EDC’s Communications & Marketing Manager, Tracie Schneider, at Tracie@edcollaborative.com.
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About Economic Development Collaborative
A private nonprofit, the Economic Development Collaborative was founded in 1996 with funding from the County of Ventura, the 10 cities in the county and key private-sector companies to provide a pathway to business growth, economic prosperity and high quality of life for all.
Today, in partnership with the Small Business Development Center, the EDC is a regional asset for economic vitality in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties, giving businesses, community partners and civic leaders the resources they need to succeed. By leveraging public and private funds, the EDC has become a key player in delivering business consulting, funding and strategic initiatives that support the region.
About District Export Council of Southern California
District Export Councils (DECs) are organizations of leaders from the local business community, appointed by successive U.S. Secretaries of Commerce, whose knowledge of international business provides a source of professional advice for local firms.
For 30 years, DECs have served the United States by assisting companies in their local communities export, thus promoting our country’s economic growth and creating new and higher-paying jobs for their communities. Closely affiliated with the U.S. Commerce Department’s U.S. Export Assistance Centers, the 59 DECs combine the energies of nearly 1,500 exporters and export service providers who support the U.S. Government’s export promotion efforts throughout the country.
