The International Academy is a series of three interconnected workshops, continuing with the second workshop, "Creating an International Trade Strategy" on November 14th, 2024.

No matter where you are on your international journey, the Academy offers the expert guidance, practical training, and essential resources to help your business thrive in global markets.

The "Creating an International Trade Strategy" workshop is designed for SMEs looking to expand their business beyond domestic markets and into the global arena. This two-hour session provides a comprehensive guide to developing a successful international trade strategy. Participants will learn how to assess their business’s readiness for international trade by evaluating their financial stability, production capacity, and market potential. They will explore how to conduct thorough market research to identify suitable target markets, taking into account factors like market size, demand, competition, and regulatory barriers.

The session also covers the critical steps of crafting a customized trade strategy, including selecting entry methods, pricing strategies, and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance. In addition, SMEs will be introduced to risk management techniques, focusing on currency exchange risks, international payments, and supply chain logistics. By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to confidently take their first steps into international trade.

Key Learning Points:

• Assessing Business Readiness for International Markets
• SMEs must evaluate their internal resources, production capacity, and financial health to determine if they are ready for the complexities of international trade.
• Effective Market Research and Target Market Selection
• Successful international expansion hinges on selecting the right markets based on demand, growth potential, ease of entry, and competitive landscape.
• Developing a Comprehensive International Trade Strategy
• SMEs need a clear, structured approach to entering foreign markets, including entry strategies, pricing models, and legal compliance.
• Managing Risks and Logistics in International Trade
• Understanding how to mitigate risks related to currency fluctuations, payments, and logistics is crucial for smooth international operations.

Register today for one of 20 limited spaces. From beginner workshops to advanced strategy sessions, our tailored support ensures you're equipped for success. Register for our upcoming workshops and begin exploring new business horizons today.

Open to members and non-members based in Dundee, this session is perfect for those who have considered expanding their business globally or are looking to expand into other markets but aren’t sure where to begin. Designed for businesses looking to create a roadmap to trading overseas, targeting the right markets and developing an actionable plan to get there.  

Our expert trainer, Jeff Lockhart from St Andrews Management Centre, will take us through the essential steps for successful international trade, from navigating regulations to understanding foreign markets. 
You will also learn how we can support your business by applying for the Expert Help programme, find a Mentor who has experience of international trade, and much more! 

Jeff Lockhart, St Andrews Management Centre: 

Jeff Lockhart is an international training consultant, specialising in International Trade, Finance, Leadership and Management Development. 

He obtained his MBA in 1996 and is a Fellow of several bodies, including the Royal Society for the Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Occupational Learning. He is also a Member of the Institute of Directors.

A past Scottish Chair of the Chartered Management Institute, he has held several senior level positions for industry-leading international businesses. Since 2001, has operated as a consultant to businesses in the UK, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, India, Ireland, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, and USA.

He is a Director and co-owner of St Andrews Management Centre Ltd, based in Cupar in Fife. He provides International Trade support to clients across the UK, and works in partnership with a number of Chambers of Commerce and Business Gateways in Scotland.

The Chamber International Academy has secured £24,600 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support the implementation of business support workshops like The Chamber International Academy. 

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s support and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus