International Expansion
A variety of opportunities exist to help Maryland companies looking to expand their companies overseas.
ExportMD
ExportMD helps offset some of the costs of marketing internationally for Maryland's small and mid-sized companies. The program offers companies up to $5,000 in reimbursement for expenses associated with an international marketing project.
Maryland Soft Landing Exchange Program
The Maryland Soft Landing Exchange Program provides Maryland companies with the opportunity to test out new markets abroad at an affordable rate. International program partners provide participating Maryland companies with access to facilities, resources, networking, advisors, and more.
Maryland Innovation Lab
The Maryland Innovation Lab pairs Maryland's leading corporations with startups from across the globe (or from right here in Maryland). This dynamic program invites selected startups to pitch their innovative deas to participating sponsor companies. Each lab cohort focuses on a new industry. The current Lab is searching for ideas to revolutionize logistics, enhance supply chain resilience, and help companies lead with cutting-edge solutions.
Trade Shows & Missions
Want to explore new opportunities in foreign markets through trade shows and missions? Maryland Commerce's Office of International Investment and Trade regularly takes delegations of Maryland companies to international trade shows, which help open doors to meet new customers and partners from around the globe. See upcoming trade show opportunities.
Foreign-Trade Zones
A Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) is a designated area within U.S. borders that promotes domestic employment and helps U.S. firms compete in the global marketplace. A FTZ is located in or near a U.S. Customs port of entry, where foreign and domestic merchandise is generally considered to be international commerce. Foreign or domestic merchandise may enter this enclave without a formal customs entry or the payment of custom duties or government excise taxes. More information on the FTZs in Maryland can be found on the Port of Baltimore’s website .
Additional Services & Resources
Additional services available through the Maryland Department of Commerce include: international and industry research, marketing products and services abroad, assessing requirements for export documentation, and making business connections. Commerce supports the following initiatives:
- U.S. Export-Import Bank - Maryland Commerce offers partial reimbursement of Export-Import Bank services for eligible Maryland small businesses. Please contact Deb DeFazio debra.defazio@maryland.gov for more information.
- U.S. Commercial Service - Maryland Commerce offers partial reimbursement of U.S. Commercial Service services for eligible Maryland small businesses. Please contact Deb DeFazio debra.defazio@maryland.gov for more information.
- The Center for Global Business, Smith School of Business, University of Maryland - Offers a variety of initiatives, including the Maryland Global Consulting Program, which connects Maryland companies to high-achieving students.