World Trade Center Initiative
Goals of Initiative
Ventura and Santa Barbara counties are among the nation’s leaders in agricultural exports, both have high concentrations in high tech sectors that are globally distributed, yet too few firms optimize global markets and there is extraordinary opportunity for innovation and growth.
The goal of the EDC’s World Trade Center Initiative is to encourage expansion of world trade activities in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, to foster greater business participation in world trade and to increase international business to the region. In addition, the initiative’s research products help develop regional strategies and position the region for achieving status as leader and innovator in the global economy.
EDC Action
The EDC offers technical assistance by experts in international business to companies, helping them increase their global business, increase profits and return of wealth and investment to the region, all which contribute to shared prosperity. To evaluate and assist strategy development around global markets and opportunities, California Lutheran University (CLU) conducts research and analysis. This initiative focuses on:
- The identification, research and analysis of the international trade profile for the region’s critical trade clusters, for identifying barriers and opportunities for growth.
- The delivery of business technical assistance to improve international trade strategy and capacity and global market access.
The economic value of global engagement is well-known. Exporting firms pay higher wages, create more jobs and are less likely to go out of business in times of duress than their non-exporting competitors. International trade and investment support nearly 20 percent of our region’s jobs.
Partnering Organizations
This initiative leverages the Port of Hueneme’s World Trade Center license for serving Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. The research arm is led by California Lutheran University School of Management.
This partnership also builds on local assets to deliver a program that demystifies world trade and improves business participation in international markets.
Key partners include:
- U.S. District Export Council
- U.S. Commercial Service and U.S. Department of Commerce
- California State University-Channel Islands
- Santa Barbara City College
- Ventura County Community College District
