**COVID-19 MESSAGE**

This workshop is offered online using Zoom. Closer to the start date, watch for an email with instructions on how to join. CLC is committed to the safety and security of online instruction and is constantly adapting to offer the best experience for all users. To help ensure security, a password to enter the Zoom session will be provided to assist with these measures. Questions? Call 847-543-2033 or email jkim16@clcillinois.edu.

Getting paid securely and financed competitively is critical to export success!

Well-planned export payment terms and export financial opportunities are driving forces to grow your international sales globally. Three seasoned subject matter experts will help you learn:

• How to get paid for the product you ship
• Protective measures you can take to get paid
• How to increase potential sales with export credit insurance
• How to get an export working capital loan when receiving purchase orders from foreign buyers
• The most appropriate payment methods and when to use them
• The types of SBA export loans available to you
• Loan eligibility requirements

Active Q & A is encouraged!

Co-hosted by The Illinois Department of Commerce, Office of Trade and Investment (OTI).

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:

Michael Howard, Managing Director - Central Region, Export Import Bank of the U.S.

Ex-Im Bank’s mission is to promote exports of U. S. goods and services through a variety of programs including an Export Credit Insurance program, a Loan and Guarantee program and a Working Capital program. Mr. Howard holds a B.S. in Industrial Management from Georgia Institute of Technology. He has served on many advisory councils and committees on international financing for small businesses. He is one of the authors of the Florida Export Finance Corporation.

Mike Fazio, Export Finance Manager, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Based in Chicago, Mike works with banks and SBA Resource Partners throughout Illinois and Wisconsin to increase access to capital for small business exporters. Previously, he was a Financial Analyst in SBA’s Office of Credit Risk Management, a Lender Relations Specialist and the District International Trade Officer at SBA’s Wisconsin District Office, and most recently an Export Development Officer for SBA’s Office of International Trade. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Executive MBA program, which featured an international residency in Vietnam.

Ursula Wegrzynowicz, President, EmelevLLC

Ursula has dedicated her career to guiding small and medium-sized companies on export strategy, trade finance, compliance and logistics. With more than 20 years of experience, she assists companies to develop successful export strategies to increase sales, protect payments and win new customers. Ursula serves on the Illinois District Export Council as Secretary of the Executive Committee, and is a member of the Board of Directors of the International Trade Association of Chicago. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Loyola University Chicago and M.A. in International Affairs from American University.