UM-Flint Organizes Trade Mission to Russia

While Michigan continues to struggle to pull itself out of the recession, regional businesses are being offered a unique opportunity to expand overseas.

The University of Michigan-Flint School of Management (SOM) is inviting regional businesses to join their Trade Mission to Russia from November 7-15, 2009.

SOM features international business as an area of specialization, and is achieving recognition for its expertise. SOM is partnering with the accounting firm of Plante & Moran to jointly promote the trade mission. Plante & Moran is a prominent accounting firm in Michigan, Illinois, and the Mid-west.

Businesses get an up close look at the Russian marketplace and learn what they need to know to be part of it. The Trade Mission will provide opportunities for a number of key industries, including:

· Industrial machinery and robotics

· Precision instruments and measuring equipment

· Medical devices and equipment

· Environmental / pollution control technologies

· IT and software applications

Recently, Fortune 500 and midsize firms have reported extraordinary sales and a trade climate in Russia that is vastly improved. The United States ranks as that country's sixth largest import partner.

While in Russia, the U.S. Commercial Service Office will put businesses directly in touch with potential buyers of their products and key players that will help to break into Russia's market.

Participants will attend receptions hosted by the U.S Embassy in Moscow, and the U.S. Consulate in St. Petersburg where they will have the opportunity to meet with business experts and government officials to get unique insights into doing business in Russia.

The U.S. Department of Commerce will arrange tours of some of the world-class manufacturing facilities and industrial parks in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

"The School of Management constantly seeks ways to help local and regional businesses grow and prosper, not just in these difficult economic times," said SOM Dean John Helmuth. "We have many outreach programs that work directly with businesses, and providing this overseas opportunity for them to expand their market, fits in with our goals to helping them succeed."

Cost to Participate is $8,500. Additional participant cost is $7,700. Included in the costs are airfare, hotels, transportation, meetings, receptions, tours and sightseeing. Applications must be received by September 25.

For additional information call: 810-762-3253.