From Local to Global

Tuesdays | January 27 - February 17, 2026 | 2 - 4 p.m.

*This program is a part of the County of Riverside grant program.

Small businesses play a critical role in international trade, representing 97% of all U.S. exporters. Yet nearly 6 in 10 export to only one market, leaving significant opportunities for growth untapped. While manufactured goods continue to make up the majority of U.S. exports, service-based businesses are rapidly becoming a powerful force in the global economy. This program is designed to help Riverside County businesses — both product- and service-based — explore and capture those opportunities worldwide.

If your business — whether product-based or service-based — has been operating in Riverside County since January 1, 2024, and you’re looking to expand to new markets around the world, this series is designed for you.

At the completion of the program, eligible participants may apply for a County of Riverside grant of $5,000.

Join the SBDC Global Trade Center for this four-session series covering:

• The resources required to expand globally
• How to collect and interpret data to identify new markets
• Designing an effective international sales strategy
• Establishing a strong global supply chain
  

All participants will also be aligned with an SBDC consultant for no-cost 1:1 customized advising during the program.

SCHEDULE OVERVIEW

Week 1: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 | 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)

Preparing for Global Expansion

• Determining readiness for new markets (products or services)
• Steps to prepare your business to expand internationally
• Securing and strengthening your supply chain or service delivery process
  

Week 2: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)

Finding New Export Markets

• Collecting and analyzing data on new markets
• Assessing viability for your product or service in new markets
• Selecting the best markets for global expansion
• Primary research through travel, trade shows/missions, and networking
  

Week 3: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)

Positioning for Global Growth

• Developing a tailored pricing strategy for exports or services
• Key costs to consider
• Getting paid, managing cash flow, and forecasting
• Funding options and financial resources
  

Week 4: Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 2 – 4 p.m. (Zoom)

Qualifying Buyers and Delivering to Market

• Identifying and qualifying international buyers or partners
• Working with agents, importers, and distributors
• Preparing products or services for export/delivery
• Delivering to market while mitigating risks